Into The Invisible is a podcast that shines a light on the unseen. Created by the Complex Care team at Western Kids, this series dives into the world of chronic invisible conditions, like arthritis, hypermobility, pain, and fatigue - through the voices of those who live it every day.
We’ll hear from teens, parents, and health professionals as they share their stories, challenges, and triumphs. Together, we aim to raise awareness, break down stigmas, and foster understanding for conditions that often go unnoticed.
Ep 10 Understanding Occupational Therapy for Invisible Conditions with Tiffany Spencer
Join Rowan on Into The Invisible as he chats with Tiffany Spencer, an occupational therapist from Western Kids Health. Tiffany our in-house OT, currently on maternity leave, shares valuable insights into how occupational therapy supports kids and teens with invisible conditions like chronic pain and fatigue. Discover practical advice on school accommodations, individualised education plans (IEPs), and the importance of advocating for oneself in social environments. This episode also explores sensory sensitivities and the value of trialing different accommodations and therapies.
9 Oct 2025
Ep 09 Perthes Disease: Tim's Journey in Sport and Life
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible,' the hosts discuss functional neurological disorders and shift focus to the personal story of Tim, a 17-year-old diagnosed with Perthes disease. Tim shares his experiences, from the confusing onset of symptoms at age 14, through his diagnosis, and his subsequent physical and mental challenges. He highlights his journey in sports, particularly netball, where he has achieved significant success despite his condition. Tim discusses the importance of supportive friends and family, managing pain, and staying engaged in activities he loves. He also talks about his leg length correction surgery, offering insights for others with similar conditions. The episode concludes with reflections on dealing with misunderstandings about invisible conditions and the value of finding passion and support in overcoming challenges.
22 Aug 2025
Ep 08 Exploring Functional Neurological Disorders with Clinical Psychologist Phoebe Carrington-Jones
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible,' host Rowan and co-host Phoebe Carrington-Jones, a clinical psychologist from Western Kids Health, dive into the complexities of Functional Neurological Disorders (FND). Phoebe, with her experience on the WKH Complex Care Clinic. The episode includes an overview of FND, its symptoms, and the history of its understanding in the medical field. Phoebe and Rowan also discuss diagnostic methods, the evolution of the terminology, and the societal stigma surrounding FND. Tune in for an in-depth exploration of one of the most misunderstood conditions in neurology and psychiatry.
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
8 Aug 2025
Ep 07 Living with Marfan and Ehlers Danlos Syndromes: Grace's Story
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible,' Grace, also known as Gracie, discusses her experiences living with Marfan syndrome and Ehlers Danlos syndrome. As a 15-year-old, Grace opens up about the daily challenges and the misconceptions surrounding her conditions. She recounts her journey from early days of wearing a scoliosis brace and special leggings to the emotional toll of dealing with pain and medical appointments. Grace also emphasises the importance of support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals, and offers advice to other children with similar conditions. The episode sheds light on the often unseen struggles of those with invisible illnesses and underscores the need for empathy and better communication within the medical community.
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
24 Jul 2025
Ep 06 A Teen's Journey with Chronic Pain: Matt's Story
In this episode of 'Into the Invisible,' Matt, a high school student, discusses his experience living with chronic pain and related hypersensitivity and hypermobility. He describes his journey as a rollercoaster and shares how he has learned to manage his condition through acceptance and understanding the correlation between his mental state and his pain. Matt also talks about his involvement in surf lifesaving, hockey, and directing school plays, emphasising the importance of balancing activities and pacing himself. He offers advice to others with similar conditions, highlighting the significance of support, mental health, and gradually rebuilding physical capabilities - but how this doesn't always go smoothly.
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
10 Jul 2025
Ep 05 Hypermobile EDS and Chronic Pain: Charlotte's Story
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible', host Rowan is joined by Charlotte, a high school student living with a hypermobility condition and chronic pain. Recorded in May, this episode raises awareness for Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Month. Charlotte discusses how sports like hockey and surfing help her manage both physically and mentally. They delve into the challenges of balancing school, symptoms, and friendships, and the importance of having supportive people. Charlotte shares her experience with EDS, coping strategies, and the reality of masking with an invisible condition. They also discuss sensory issues, the importance of pacing, and finding supportive friends. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Charlotte provides valuable insights for others in similar situations.
26 Jun 2025
Ep 04 Navigating Life with Invisible Conditions: Caitlin's Story
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible,' we introduce Caitlin, a 24-year-old, who joins the conversation to discuss her experiences of living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), autism, and ADHD. Caitlin shares valuable insights into managing chronic pain and mental health, the importance of nature, and her academic pursuits in conservation and wildlife biology at Murdoch University. She also addresses the challenges of making and maintaining friendships, the concept of 'spoons' or energy points, and the impact of having an understanding community. Tune in to gain an understanding and Caitlin's hacks to managing invisible conditions.
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
12 Jun 2025
Ep 03 Functional Neurological Disorder: CJ's Journey to Recovery and Resilience
In this episode of 'Into The Invisible,' host Rowan sits down with CJ, who shares their personal journey with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). From the initial confusion and lack of diagnosis to eventually overcoming mobility challenges, CJ's story is a compelling look at perseverance and resilience. CJ also discusses their experience using mobility aids in school, facing bullying, and finding strength in support systems and personal goals. With a mix of humor and determination, CJ's story offers hope and practical advice for anyone facing similar invisible conditions.
Links:
Rubber hand illusion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxwn1w7MJvk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxwn1w7MJvk)
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
29 May 2025
Ep 02 Life with Juvenile Arthritis: Ashish's Journey
Ashish's Journey
In this episode, we dive into Ashish's inspiring journey with juvenile arthritis. Diagnosed six years ago, Ashish recounts the challenges of managing an invisible condition from adolescence into adulthood. He discusses the physical and emotional impact, the struggle for a diagnosis, and the mixed emotions following his diagnosis. Through candid stories, Ashish shares how he adapted his life, including pursuing a degree in paramedicine, working in a hospital, and continuing his passion for sports. His perspective on perseverance, seeking multiple opinions, and finding light in challenging situations offers invaluable insights for listeners facing similar health challenges.
Links:
https://www.jafa.org.au/
https://www.arthritiswa.org.au/
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
8 May 2025
Ep 01 Invisible Conditions: The Launch of 'Into The Invisible' Podcast
In the debut episode of 'Into The Invisible,' the hosts introduce the podcast dedicated to exploring unseen health conditions. Charlotte, who designed the inclusive logo, explains the thought process behind its creation. We discussed experiences of wanting to be seen and how the podcast aims to provide a platform for sharing stories and information, especially for teenagers and young adults. Various topics are covered, including the structure of future episodes, guest invitations, and ways listeners can engage by sending questions and sharing stories. The episode wraps up with information on how to support and find the podcast on platforms like Spotify, along with a teaser for future discussions about communication regarding invisible conditions.
Resources:
Email questions to intotheinvisible@westernkidshealth.com (mailto:intotheinvisible@westernkidshealth.com)
Learn More at westernkidshealth.com (https://westernkidshealth.com/?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=into_the_invisible)
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