In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Sophie Riggs about autism, late diagnosis, and the everyday reality of being disbelieved because disability is not visible.

We discuss what genuine inclusion looks like in schools, workplaces, airports, and major sporting venues when people actually listen and make small adjustments.

• early childhood assessments, multiple diagnoses and what it feels like to be kept in the dark
• why classrooms can be overwhelming, plus the supports Sophie wishes she had
• living with POTS, ARFID, anxiety, fibromyalgia and other co-occurring conditions
• how the Hidden Disability Sunflower lanyard helps at airports through pre-boarding, staff awareness and sensory spaces
• what makes Adelaide Oval feel inclusive for staff and visitors, including breaks and the sensory space

Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

To understand more about arthritis, we are joined by Marc Williams from Arthritis Action. With over 100 different forms, we focus on the main two, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and touch upon gout.

We clear up myths about arthritis, from who it affects to what is actually happening inside the joints. Marc discusses the importance of recognising early warning signs to support positive changes that can help manage physical and mental symptoms.

• Arthritis as an umbrella term
• Osteoarthritis explained
• Rheumatoid arthritis explained
• “Wear and tear”
• Early symptoms
• Pain descriptions
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower as a way to ask for help

If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support.

For support:

• Arthritis Action - UK
• Arthritis Society Canada
• American Arthritis Foundation
• Arthritis Ireland
• Arthritis Australia

Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review.

Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com

Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

This episode discusses living with sickle cell disease and its impacts. We are joined by SOuL Just Be co-editor Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas to explore the complexities of living with sickle cell disease. Both guests bring their lived experience and professional expertise to shed light on the physical, emotional, and social challenges individuals with this condition face.

• What sickle cell is
• How sickle cell affects work, education, emotions and relationships
• What a sickle cell crisis is
• Recognising triggers
• Why sickle cell is global, and the link to malaria
• Stigma and misinformation
• Racial bias
• The helpful role of the Sunflower in preventing being misjudged

If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support.

For support:

Sickleverse

• Website: sickleverse.com
• Instagram: @sicklecellcoach, TikTok: @drlewisthomas, Facebook: Dr Lewis Thomas, YouTube: @sicklecellhelp, LinkedIn: Dr Lewis Thomas

SOuL Just Be

• SOuL Just Be E-mag
• LinkedIn @A&A Consulting and Engineering services
• YouTube sickle cell podcast @A&ConsultingServices
• SCD Champs Game App

Charities

• The Sickle Cell Society - UK
• Sickle Cell Society Ireland
• Sickle Cell Disease Association of America
• Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada

Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review.

Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com

Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au