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A WonderCare Podcast
Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Aoife Kirwan
In this episode I chat to Aoife Kirwan about her MS diagnosis and now that has had an impact on her life.
We discuss the changing outlook for Multiple Sclerosis patients in recent years and how important it is to be your own advocate when it comes to your health!
The 'living with' series hears the challenges people living with a healthcare challenge face on a day to day basis.
We often hear about certain medical conditions but actually understand very little about them. It seems rude to ask sometimes!
This mini series will follow personal stories including the highs and lows, all the time raising awareness and being advocates for those who may not want to share their story - but need the same support.
I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!
Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!
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10. Take 2!! Success and Failings of RSV Immunisation in Winter 2024/2025
16:12||Season 12, Ep. 10Corrected audio!In the final episode of Season 12, Sheena extends gratitude to Salin Plus and dives into the RSV Pathfinder Program in Ireland. She discusses the importance of RSV immunisation for infants, the success of the new monoclonal antibody Nirsevimab, and the implementation hurdles faced by public health authorities. Sheena highlights the delays in policy execution, the need for better coordination between the Department of Health and HSE, and the overall impact on infant healthcare in Ireland. She underscores the necessity of early planning, transparent communication, and the adoption of implementation science to improve public health responses. She concludes with a call for better leadership and organisation to ensure effective healthcare delivery. 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude00:22 Overview of RSV and the Pathfinder Program02:08 Challenges with Previous Immunisations03:06 Introduction of Nirsevimab and Initial Excitement04:47 Implementation Delays and Frustrations08:38 Lessons and Recommendations for the Future13:35 Current Status and Final Thoughts Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more! Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#rsv #rsvimmunisation #respiratorysynctialvirus #respiratoryhealth #nirsevimab #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #implementationscience9. Measles warnings for holidays...but what about right here?!
11:54||Season 12, Ep. 9Understanding Measles and the risks travelling or staying at home!In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom of three, delves into the critical topic of measles. She discusses the highly contagious nature of the virus, its transmission, symptoms, and severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. She emphasizes the alarming resurgence of measles in Ireland and Europe, largely due to decreased vaccination rates amid vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. Sheena underscores the importance of achieving a 95% vaccination rate to ensure herd immunity and prevent outbreaks. She also highlights the significance of the MMR vaccine in protecting not just individuals but entire communities.00:00 Introduction to the Wonder Care Podcast00:17 Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Transmission02:08 Complications and Risks of Measles04:04 The Importance of Vaccination04:38 Current Measles Outbreaks and Statistics05:04 Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Misinformation06:51 Protecting Vulnerable Populations08:07 Global and Local Measles Trends10:14 Promoting Vaccination and Final ThoughtsSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#measles #measlesireland #mmr #mmrvaccine #measleseurope #complicationsofmeasles #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #antivax #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth8. Climate Change is Intensifying Hay Fever in Ireland
10:51||Season 12, Ep. 8How Climate Change is Intensifying Hay Fever in IrelandIn this episode, Sheena explains how climate change is worsening hay fever in Ireland. The discussion covers the extended pollen seasons due to warmer and wetter climates, the increase in pollen counts fueled by higher carbon dioxide levels, and the introduction of new allergens like ragweed. Sheena also provides actionable advice on identifying and reporting ragweed, staying informed about pollen forecasts, and exploring advanced treatment options like immunomodulators. The episode emphasises the need for awareness and early action to mitigate the impact of climate change on hay fever.00:00 Introduction to the Wonder Care Podcast00:20 The Impact of Climate Change on Hay Fever01:10 Extended Pollen Seasons and High Pollen Counts02:29 New Allergens: The Rise of Ragweed04:47 Taking Action Against Ragweed06:30 Air Pollution and Its Role in Hay Fever08:11 Immunomodulators: A New Approach to Treatment10:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#hayfever #ragweed #immunomodulators #salinplus #climatechange #globalwarming #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth7. Ireland's Men's Health in the Spotlight
15:07||Season 12, Ep. 7In this episode, Sheena explains the importance of focusing on men's health, highlighting alarming statistics such as shorter life expectancy, high rates of disability, and homelessness among men. Sheena also discusses crucial direct health risks including smoking, alcohol misuse, and mental health challenges. Emphasising the value of early detection, she outlines the leading causes of death—cancers, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases—providing symptom checks and prevention advice. She encourages men to utilize community pharmacies and various mental health resources to improve their well-being.00:00 Introduction to Men's Health00:50 Why Men's Health is a Priority01:31 Socioeconomic and Lifestyle Factors02:46 Direct Health Risks and Statistics05:48 Mental Health and Social Connections08:28 Cancer Awareness and Prevention13:15 Cardiovascular and Respiratory Health14:35 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#connectingforhealth #menshealthweek #menshealth #cancer #circulatorydisease #cardiovasculardisease #menshealthrisks #menshealthprevention #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #shouldertoshoulder6. Hangover or Meningitis? Emma's Story.
38:03||Season 12, Ep. 6The Malone Family's Experience With Meningitis: A Closer LookIn this episode, Sheena is joined by Wayne and Tricia Malone, who share a harrowing experience involving their daughter Emma and her battle with bacterial meningitis. The Malones discuss their family background, Emma's initial symptoms and ensuing health crisis, the hospital's responses, and the critical decisions that saved her life. They highlight the importance of parental instinct, the need for awareness of meningitis symptoms, and the significance of timely medical intervention. Furthermore, they emphasize the protective power of vaccinations and share their efforts to raise awareness and funds for Act for Meningitis, a charity providing crucial support for affected individuals and families.00:00 Introduction and Family Background00:46 The Onset of Symptoms02:57 Emergency and Hospitalization04:36 ICU and Initial Treatment08:35 Recovery and Complications16:06 Reflections and Parental Concerns17:16 Health Concerns and Meningitis Awareness18:04 Festival Risks and Teen Health20:25 Raising Awareness and Charity Efforts24:04 The Importance of Vaccination27:44 Living with the Aftermath30:16 Final Thoughts and Key TakeawaysFind ACT for Meningitis here! and find them on instagram over here!Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#meningitis #actformeningitis #meningitisvaccines #survivingmeningitis #meningitissurvivor #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #actformeningitis5. Pollen Proof in 10 mins!
09:17||Season 12, Ep. 5Tips and Therapies for Better Living through hay fever season!In this episode, Sheena, a community pharmacist, dives into effective strategies for preventing and managing hay fever. She stresses the importance of prevention alongside treatment, sharing practical tips to minimise pollen exposure and enhance quality of life during pollen season. Sheena introduces 'Salin Plus,' a unique air filtration device that combines air purification with halotherapy using microcrystalline salt particles. She also recommends checking pollen levels on the Met Éireann website, keeping windows closed on high pollen days, and employing various methods to reduce pollen presence in your living environment. The episode is packed with actionable advice to help you and your family stay comfortable and symptom-free.Products mentioned in this episode:Salin PlusHay Max balmFusion Allergy RangeOptase RangeBecodefenceHay band accupressure allergy reliefMet Eireann Pollen forecasts00:00 Introduction to Hay Fever00:49 Understanding Hay Fever Symptoms01:30 The Importance of Prevention01:51 Effective Sleep and Hay Fever02:20 Introducing Salin Plus03:09 Benefits of Halotherapy05:25 Practical Tips for Hay Fever Prevention07:44 Keeping Your Home Pollen-Free10:05 Final Thoughts and GoodbyeSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#hayfever #hayfeverprevention #hayfeverrelief #hayfevertreatment #pollenproof #allergies #pollenallergy #pollen #asthma #respiratoryhealth #copd #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth4. Health in all policies - Endometriosis - Beyond the Symptoms
25:54||Season 12, Ep. 4Beyond the SymptomsIn this episode of A WonderCare podcast, host Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist, delves into the lived experience of Doireann Barrett, who shares the profound and widespread impacts of endometriosis beyond reproductive health. Doireann discusses the challenges of finding specialised care in Ireland, the significant financial burdens imposed by chronic illness, and the systemic failings in healthcare and other public services. Despite facing numerous adversities, Doireann continues to advocate for better support and understanding for endometriosis patients. Sheena and Doireann emphasize the need for a 'health in all policies' approach, highlighting how interconnected factors such as housing and financial stability influence overall well-being. The episode ends with a call for listeners to hold elected officials accountable for implementing comprehensive health policies.00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction00:22 Impact of Chronic Disease on Life00:53 Challenges in Endometriosis Treatment02:42 Financial and Social Struggles08:04 Housing and Healthcare System Failures18:13 Advocacy and Support Resources25:03 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#healthinallpolicies #populationhealth #determinantsofhealth #endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity3. Living with Endometriosis - Doireann Barrett - The Physical and Mental Burden
31:37||Season 12, Ep. 3Endometriosis: Doireann's Story of Physical and Emotional ImpactIn this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a Pharmacist, welcomes Doireann Barrett to discuss the profound physical and emotional effects of endometriosis on her life. Doireann shares her journey with endometriosis, from experiencing symptoms since infancy, through misdiagnosis, to the challenges of living with a chronic condition. The conversation highlights the stigma, lack of understanding, and systemic failures in the healthcare system, emphasising the importance of better support and diagnosis for individuals with chronic health conditions. Tune in next week for a discussion on living with chronic diseases and the systemic impacts on one's life.00:00 Introduction to A WonderCare Podcast01:16 Doireann Barrett Shares Her Journey03:10 Early Symptoms and Misdiagnosis07:07 Living with Endometriosis: The Struggles12:57 Navigating the Healthcare System16:09 The Impact on Daily Life21:01 Ongoing Challenges and Advocacy30:41 Conclusion and Next Week's PreviewSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity #healthpodcast2. Endometriosis Explained: Why EVERY woman in Ireland should know the symptoms!
16:56||Season 12, Ep. 2Understanding Endometriosis: Symptoms, Causes, and TreatmentIn this episode, Sheena discusses endometriosis, covering the basics of what endometrial cells are, the symptoms and complications of the condition, and the potential causes. She explains diagnostics and various treatment options, including medical, surgical, and complementary therapies. She addresses the situation in Ireland regarding access to care and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Additionally, Sheena highlights underfunding in women's health research and the personal and systemic challenges faced by women with endometriosis. She also previews an upcoming interview with endometriosis sufferer and advocate, Darren Barrett.00:00 Introduction to Endometriosis01:03 Understanding Endometrial Cells04:04 Symptoms of Endometriosis05:00 Complications Arising from Endometriosis06:43 Causes and Diagnosis of Endometriosis08:41 Treatment Options for Endometriosis12:54 Endometriosis Care in Ireland16:02 Conclusion and Next Week's PreviewSeason 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity