Patient PrepRheum Podcast

CreakyJoints Australia

Patient PrepRheum is a podcast exploring important and often-misunderstood aspects of living with autoimmune arthritis and related conditions here in Australia. We'll speak with fellow patients and renowned doctors to help gain a better understanding of some of the less talked about topics of managing these diseases. At CreakyJoints Australia we are on a mission to raise awareness and deepen the collective understanding of arthritis, a disease which has more than 200 variations, empowering patients to put themselves at the centre of their own health.  In Patient PrepRheum, we are looking at three key areas: Biosimilars - a group of biologic medicines used to slow and stop the progression of Autoimmune arthritis; How medications are approved via the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme; and the importance of good patient-doctor communication. Hosted by CreakyJoints Australia National Coordinator Naomi Creek.  For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website.

  1. 11/06/2025

    From Pain to Power – A Lupus Journey of Hope

    In our second episode, Naomi chats with Julie Norris, who lives in rural Victoria and whose life has been profoundly shaped by resilience, compassion and advocacy. Living with lupus for more than 34 years, she has navigated the daily challenges of a chronic illness while raising her son as a single parent. Julie shares her challenging diagnosis journey and emphasizes the importance of self-efficacy, symptom tracking, and why understanding your blood tests can help make your treatment journey smoother. She also highlights how a new immunotherapy treatment has significantly improved her quality of life. Julie goes on to discuss her memoir, Shattered Silence: Reclaiming My Voice, which documents her lived experience and advocacy for better patient empowerment and communication among healthcare providers. Julie’s story is one of survival and renewal, and she continues to use her voice to empower others, reminding them that they are not alone and that together, communities can create lasting change. Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This fourth season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from AstraZeneca. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website at creakyjoints.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    From Pain to Power – A Lupus Journey of Hope
  2. 10/28/2025

    A New Horizon for Treating Lupus

    In our first episode, host Naomi Creek discusses all things lupus with Professor Eric Morand, a Sir John Monash Distinguished Professor, a physician-scientist and Dean of the Sub-Faculty of Clinical and Molecular Medicine at Monash University. He is a clinical rheumatologist specialising in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is Head of the Monash Health Rheumatology Unit. Professor Morand provides an insightful overview of lupus and its symptoms and shares the challenges of diagnosing and treating lupus due to its complex nature. He highlights the importance of achieving early diagnosis to minimise damage to body organs. Professor Morand also talks about the role of genetic factors and the need for patient self-efficacy and empowerment. Their conversation covers treatment options for lupus including new targeted therapies, clinical trials and the potential of CAR T-cell therapy for achieving drug-free remission. Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This fourth season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from AstraZeneca. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website at creakyjoints.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    A New Horizon for Treating Lupus
  3. 08/04/2025

    Managing Daily Life and Self-Care with axSpA

    Naomi and her guests discuss ways to manage axSpA in daily life in this third episode of the season. Janet Millner is an experienced physiotherapist and a valued member of the rheumatology team at the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania. She has special interests in the management of spondyloarthritis and persisting musculoskeletal pain. Janet’s clinical role includes supporting people with complex rheumatological conditions to optimise their fitness and ability to function. Janet emphasises the role of regular exercise in maintaining joint function and overall health. She acknowledges that exercise can be challenging for people with axSpA and discusses how it can be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences. Naomi’s guests from the previous two episodes, Cherie Cleland and Shayne Van Der Heide, return to share their experiences of managing axSpA holistically. Along with Jane, they discuss various ways to keep moving, such as cycling, swimming and physiotherapy. The guests also share tips on other lifestyle changes that can help people with axSpA, including using modified furniture and other aids, working from home, slowing down during flares and asking for help when needed. All believe that even doing a few minutes each day can make a difference. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This third season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website at creakyjoints.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Managing Daily Life and Self-Care with axSpA
  4. 07/28/2025

    The Role of Inflammation in axSpA and Its Comorbidities

    In episode 2 of this season, Naomi and her guests discuss the comorbidities associated with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Dr Arupam Raman is a rheumatologist at South by Southwest Specialists in Gledswood Hills, NSW. She also holds a Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) from the University of Sydney, further strengthening her expertise in managing complex conditions and delivering evidence-based care. Dr Raman is actively involved in medical education and contributes to the ongoing development of rheumatology treatment approaches. Dr Raman outlines the most common comorbidities associated with axSpA, including hypertension, obstructive sleep apnoea, fibromyalgia and depression. She looks at the role of inflammatory cytokines and risk factors in developing comorbidities and believes patients should be screened for such conditions so they can be managed proactively. Naomi is also delighted to talk with Cherie Cleland and Shayne Van Der Heide from Episode 1 again. Cherie and Shayne both live with comorbid conditions and openly share how they manage these conditions alongside their axSpA. Finally, they reflect on the ups and downs of talking to family and friends about their conditions.We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This third season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website at creakyjoints.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Role of Inflammation in axSpA and Its Comorbidities
  5. 07/21/2025

    Understanding Axial Spondyloarthritis: Diagnosis and Treatment

    In this episode, host Naomi Creek and her guests discuss the early stages of Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Cherie Cleland (70) lives with a non-specific form on axSpA. She has tried numerous treatments over the years and has developed other health conditions including inflammatory bowel disease and thyroid, kidney and heart issues. Cherie and her husband love travelling and cycling. Shayne Van Der Heide (57) was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at age 30 but felt very isolated with little support from his doctors. Shayne later had spinal surgeries and developed Parkinson’s disease. He lives a full life spending time with his family, managing a training organisation and cycling for exercise and enjoyment. Cherie and Shane share their long diagnosis and treatment journeys and the impact of axSpA on their lives. They emphasise the importance of good doctor-patient communication and of getting quality information and support to help them feel less overwhelmed and alone. Dr Michael Yoon is a rheumatologist at Campbelltown Hospital in Sydney, NSW, with a special interest in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). His passion for patient-centered care and clinical research drives his continuous efforts to enhance treatment approaches. Dr Yoon explains the challenges of diagnosing axSpA as there is no definitive test and symptoms are similar to those of other conditions. Doctors rely on a mix of tests, imaging and clinical judgement. Treatment can range from anti-inflammatories to medications that suppress the immune system, along with exercise and lifestyle adjustments. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This third season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website at creakyjoints.org.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Understanding Axial Spondyloarthritis: Diagnosis and Treatment
  6. 07/22/2024

    Psoriatic Arthritis: Self-Management and Getting on with Life

    In our third episode, Naomi is chatting with Simone Bye from New South Wales, who lives with psoriatic arthritis. Simone was diagnosed in 2018 and is a mum of two young children. She says the hardest part of her journey has been trialling and medically failing so many treatments, which has made it difficult to be the parent she wants to be for her kids. Despite these challenges, she is doing her best to manage her condition and get on with life.Naomi is also joined by Sarah Comensoli from BJC Health in Sydney. Sarah has several roles there as a director, head of marketing and manager of the allied health team. She has been practising as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist since 2008 and has worked in a number of clinical and gym settings since then. Sarah has been instrumental in building the Exercise Physiology service at BJC Health to be one which is unmatched in delivering care to those with rheumatic disease.Sarah shares her expertise in working with rheumatology patients and says there is no “one size fits all” approach in helping people keep fit and healthy. She explains how tailoring an exercise program is the key to success in getting patients engaged in better lifestyle habits. Simone discusses some of the ways her allied health team are helping her integrate techniques into her daily life so she can function more efficiently, physically and mentally. Contact Us We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This second season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia.For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Psoriatic Arthritis: Self-Management and Getting on with Life
  7. 07/22/2024

    Psoriatic Arthritis: Patient Journeys and the Road to Diagnosis

    In this episode, Naomi is joined by two patients. Kay Boucker is from New South Wales and was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis in 2013. Kay lived with psoriasis for many years before experiencing other symptoms like fatigue, tendon pain and uveitis. She said it took her GP a long time to be convinced about her PsA symptoms but she was finally referred to a rheumatologist. Kay also lives with type 2 diabetes and depression and says singing is her happy pill for helping her through life’s challenges.Naomi’s second guest is Andrea McMahon from South Australia. Andrea was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome and fibromyalgia in 2010.  Then, four years ago, she presented to her rheumatologist with new symptoms of splitting nails and lower back pain. Shortly after that she was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. The ups and downs in her journey have taught her patience, pacing and resilience. Andrea remains optimistic for her future and continues her life with as much activity as she can.Kay, Andrea and Naomi share their experiences and insights on managing psoriatic arthritis and living with chronic illnesses. They emphasise the importance of lifestyle factors, seeking knowledge, and finding support systems. Kay and Andrea discuss the impact of their conditions on their daily life, while offering practical advice and personal anecdotes to help others navigate the challenges of living with chronic conditions. Contact Us We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This second season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia. For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Psoriatic Arthritis: Patient Journeys and the Road to Diagnosis
  8. 07/22/2024

    Psoriatic Arthritis: An Underdiagnosed Disease

    In this episode, we talk with Dr Premarani Sinnathurai, a specialist in the Rheumatology Department at Royal North Shore Hospital and Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney. She was awarded her PhD from the University of Sydney in 2019 on Comorbidity and Patient-Centred Health Outcomes in Psoriatic Arthritis. Her research focuses on the role of comorbidity and adiposity on outcomes in psoriatic arthritis. Her clinical work includes specialist psoriatic arthritis clinics in addition to general rheumatology and acute referral clinics.Dr Sinnathurai discusses the complexities of psoriatic arthritis, including inflammation in joints, tendons and skin and the challenges of diagnosing the condition. We learn about the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment as well as the comorbidities associated with psoriatic arthritis. We also hear about the various medications and lifestyle changes that can help people manage the condition, highlighting the importance of individualised approaches based on patient priorities and patient-doctor partnerships. Contact Us We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Meet the Team Host: Naomi Creek, National Coordinator at CreakyJoints Australia. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This second season of Patient PrepRheum is produced by the non-profit Global Healthy Living Foundation, its arthritis patient community CreakyJoints Australia, and made possible with support from UCB Australia.For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Psoriatic Arthritis: An Underdiagnosed Disease

Trailer

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About

Patient PrepRheum is a podcast exploring important and often-misunderstood aspects of living with autoimmune arthritis and related conditions here in Australia. We'll speak with fellow patients and renowned doctors to help gain a better understanding of some of the less talked about topics of managing these diseases. At CreakyJoints Australia we are on a mission to raise awareness and deepen the collective understanding of arthritis, a disease which has more than 200 variations, empowering patients to put themselves at the centre of their own health.  In Patient PrepRheum, we are looking at three key areas: Biosimilars - a group of biologic medicines used to slow and stop the progression of Autoimmune arthritis; How medications are approved via the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme; and the importance of good patient-doctor communication. Hosted by CreakyJoints Australia National Coordinator Naomi Creek.  For more information, visit the CreakyJoints Australia website.