Welcome back to Body Banter after summer break! This month, Dr. Christine Palmay shares her perspective as a family physician passionate about preventative care, particularly immunizations. She explains how RSV, a highly contagious respiratory virus, impacts both infants and older adults, and discusses the recent advances in protection, including monoclonal antibodies for children and vaccines for older populations. Dr. Palmay emphasizes that good medicine is about prevention, urging patients to view vaccines as part of a broader investment in health, vitality, and time with loved ones. She also shares her holistic approach to healthcare, reminding listeners that staying well depends not only on science and vaccines but also on everyday basics like movement, connection, and self-care.

This time on Body Banter, Sarina M shares her powerful and personal experience living with long COVID following two severe infections. She describes the wide-ranging impacts on her body—from respiratory struggles and chronic fatigue to muscle pain and visual disturbances—as well as the emotional toll of navigating an invisible illness. Sarina emphasizes the importance of being believed and supported by healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for empathy and patient-centered care. Despite the challenges, she speaks with resilience about recovery, self-compassion, and rebuilding her relationship with her body.

In this episode, Martine Dunnwald shares her journey from studying pharmacy and cell biology in France to becoming a skin biologist and educator in the US. She describes how a chance research collaboration sparked her interest in craniofacial biology and how her resilience during funding challenges led her to discover a passion for teaching anatomy. Martine emphasizes the value of foundational anatomical sciences and interdisciplinary collaboration in both research and education. Her approach blends science, art, and music, reflecting a deep appreciation for the human body—especially the often-overlooked skin.