Ask The Patient Advocate

Does the new year make you want a fresh start with your health?Are you feeling motivated — but also overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure where to begin?What if this could be the year you finally stopped navigating your healthcare journey alone?In this episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and team member Christine explore why the start of a new year is such a powerful moment to reset, reflect, and take control of your health — especially if you’re living with chronic illness, ongoing symptoms, or a complex diagnosis like cancer.The “new year, new you” message can feel inspiring… but it can also feel heavy when you’ve been struggling to get answers, juggling appointments, or feeling dismissed by the healthcare system. That’s where private patient advocacy can change everything.In this conversation, you’ll learn: • Why the new year naturally sparks reflection and motivation around health • Why navigating the healthcare system alone is so overwhelming — even for healthcare professionals • What a private patient advocate really does, and how they differ from insurance-based advocates • How advocacy provides expertise, navigation, and emotional support — all in one place • What it truly means to have someone “stand by your side” through appointments, records, results, and decisions • Why now is the ideal time to bring in an advocate and build a strong foundation for the year aheadMost importantly, this episode is a reminder that you don’t need to have a perfect plan, organized records, or all the answers to get started. You just need to take the first step.✨ If this is the year you want clarity, support, and confidence in your healthcare journey — Pathway Patient Advocates is here to help.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

What helps people find meaning after a life-changing diagnosis?How do you stay present when fear threatens to take over?And can creativity truly become a path to healing?In this deeply inspiring episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with author, artist, mother of four, and 28-year breast cancer survivor Olga Tomaszewski — a woman whose story radiates resilience, faith, and transformation.Olga shares how sculpting, painting, and writing became more than creative outlets — they became lifelines. Through fear, uncertainty, motherhood, and healing, art helped her reconnect with herself, find her voice, and ultimately become the hope she once searched for during her own diagnosis.Together, Elena and Olga explore: ✔️ How creativity can bring peace, reflection, and emotional healing ✔️ What it’s like to navigate breast cancer as a young mother ✔️ How faith and inner guidance shaped Olga’s journey ✔️ Why finding meaning after illness is possible — and powerful ✔️ What Olga wants every newly diagnosed person to know ✔️ The inspiration behind her books, including Be Still: Healing One Moment at a TimeThis episode is a reminder that healing is not just physical — it’s emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal. Olga’s courage and honesty offer comfort, connection, and the reassurance that no one walks their journey alone.If you’re facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or simply searching for meaning during difficult seasons, this conversation will uplift your spirit and strengthen your heart.✨ Explore Olga’s books, community, and upcoming work: — For Women’s Sake (Facebook community) — understandingthehumanexperience.com✨ Explore Pathway Patient Advocates’ self-advocacy courses to support your own healthcare journey: pathwaypa.com/pathwaycoursesRemember — navigating your health can be overwhelming,But it’s a lot better when we go through it together.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Olga Tomaszewski:https://www.understandingthehumanexperience.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-tomaszewski-4482572bahttps://www.facebook.com/dee.andrea.3/Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Do you ever leave a doctor’s appointment feeling unheard? Have you struggled to ask the right questions, remember important details, or speak up when something doesn’t feel right?In this empowering episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine break down one of the most important skills any patient can learn: self-advocacy.Most people think advocating for themselves means being pushy or confrontational, but real advocacy is the opposite. It’s about clarity, confidence, preparation, and partnership.Dr. Borrelli introduces her signature A.D.V.O.C.A.T.E. framework, a simple but powerful guide that helps patients stay organized, informed, and in control throughout their healthcare journey. Together, they explore common mistakes patients make, the best ways to prepare for appointments, and how to communicate effectively with your care team.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:What true self-advocacy looks like and what it isn’tThe A.D.V.O.C.A.T.E. method for becoming an empowered patientHow to prepare for appointments so your voice is heardThe communication habits that build trust with your healthcare teamHow staying organized can dramatically improve your careWhy self-advocacy creates better outcomes, less stress, and more confidenceYou’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Pathway Patient Advocate’s Self-Advocacy Course, designed to help patients take control of their health using proven tools, step-by-step guidance, and real-world strategies.Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition, supporting a loved one, or simply wanting to take charge of your health, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity you need to advocate for yourself the right way.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

What do you do when you first hear the words “Down Syndrome” tied to your loved one? How do you navigate the medical decisions, emotions, and day-to-day challenges that come with a new diagnosis? And where can families turn when the journey feels overwhelming?In this deeply meaningful episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine explore what it truly means to navigate life with Down Syndrome, from diagnosis to long-term support. Whether you're a new parent, a caregiver, or someone wanting to understand the condition more clearly, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and actionable guidance.But this isn’t just a medical conversation, it’s a human one.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:What Down Syndrome actually is in simple, clear termsCommon health concerns and why ongoing follow-up mattersHow to build a strong care team, with or without access to specialty centersThe emotional realities parents and caregivers often faceHow private patient advocates help coordinate care, reduce stress, and support families every step of the wayWhy advocacy, both personal and professional, is essential for achieving the best outcomesDr. Borrelli also shares powerful reassurance for families at the beginning of the journey: you don’t need all the answers on day one. What matters most is finding support and taking things one step at a time.This episode shines a light on the love, resilience, and strength within the Down Syndrome community and the importance of having knowledgeable advocates in your corner.If you or someone you love is navigating Down Syndrome, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, supported, and far less alone.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Have you or someone you love ever received unexpected genetic results? Are you struggling to process a diagnosis, make difficult decisions, or manage the overwhelming emotions that come with genetic information?If so, this episode is for you — and you are not alone.In this powerful and deeply human episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Mary Frances Garber, a genetic counselor with more than 30 years of experience and a pioneer in supportive genetic counseling.Together, they explore what really happens after you leave the doctor’s office — the shock, fear, grief, guilt, uncertainty, and the emotional “fog” that often follows genetic information. Mary Frances shares how she guides patients and families through some of the hardest moments of their lives, from prenatal diagnoses to hereditary cancer risk, offering compassion, clarity, and a safe place to breathe.💛 In this episode, you’ll learn:What supportive genetic counseling is and why it’s so desperately neededThe most common emotional responses after receiving genetic newsWhy guilt, grief, and overwhelm are normal — and how to move through themHow families can make difficult decisions with support instead of fearWhat it looks like to have someone walk beside you through prenatal diagnosesHow patients facing hereditary cancer risk process grief, identity shifts, and next stepsPractical advice for anyone currently navigating genetic resultsListen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Mary-Frances:http://www.listeningreflectinghealing.comhttp://www.facebook.com/mfgcgcConnect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Are you or someone you love navigating diabetes during the holidays? Wondering how to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed, restricted, or stressed about your health?You’re not alone — and this episode is here to support you.In this Health for the Holidays episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine discuss the unique challenges that come with managing diabetes during a season filled with gatherings, traditions, and — of course — endless holiday food.Whether you or a loved one is newly diagnosed or working to stay balanced throughout the season, this conversation offers practical guidance, emotional support, and empowering tools to help you stay in control without missing the moments that matter.💙 Inside this episode, you’ll learn:Why the holidays can feel especially overwhelming after a diabetes diagnosisHow to plan ahead so you can enjoy gatherings without stressWhat to include in a simple emergency plan for unexpected blood sugar changesHow to navigate setbacks with grace (because nobody is perfect!)Ways to stay present, joyful, and connected while prioritizing your healthHow a private patient advocate can help you coordinate care, build a plan, and stay supportedThis episode is filled with compassion, practical insights, and reminders that you can enjoy the holidays while taking care of your health. Balance is possible — and you deserve to celebrate, connect, and feel confident every step of the way.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Can Faith and Medicine Coexist?When faced with a challenging medical journey, many people wrestle with questions like: Can you believe in both faith and science? or How can faith provide strength when medical reports seem hopeless?In this enlightening episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine delve into the powerful connection between faith and medicine. They discuss how faith can provide emotional clarity and resilience during medical crises, share heartwarming stories like Lori's, and offer practical advice for integrating faith into your healthcare journey.Whether you’re searching for hope, guidance, or ways to balance faith and medical advice, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how faith and medicine together can empower and support you through life's toughest challenges.Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the holidays? Struggling to balance the joy of the season with the stress that comes along with it?You’re not alone — and your mental health matters, especially during this time of year.In this Health for the Holidays episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine dive deep into the importance of prioritizing mental health during the holidays — a season that can bring both joy and emotional exhaustion.From managing feelings of loneliness or burnout to finding peace amid chaos, this episode offers simple, actionable ways to care for your emotional well-being. You’ll learn how gratitude, connection, and rest can transform your mindset, and how support from a private patient advocate can help ease the stress of managing care during this busy season.Because taking care of your mind is taking care of your body — and you deserve peace, presence, and joy this holiday season.💙 Listen now to learn:Why mental health challenges often increase during the holidaysHow to manage emotional overwhelm while balancing medical care and family demandsPractical, gentle ways to nurture your mind and bodyHow private patient advocates can lighten your load and help you focus on what truly matters🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com