In this episode of The Beauty in the Mess, Michele talks with Dana Sherwin, a healthcare executive turned patient advocate, who brings over 35 years of experience in healthcare administration, and a deeply personal story of survival. After facing a life-threatening illness and undergoing a stem cell transplant, Dana gained a rare perspective: what it’s like to move from managing care systems to navigating them as a patient.

She shares what it truly means to take ownership of your health, from asking the right questions and building stronger communication with your providers, to organizing your own care and advocating for yourself when it matters most. Dana’s message is clear: you are the CEO of your own health.

This episode is both practical and deeply human. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt lost in the medical system, overwhelmed by a diagnosis, or ready to take a more active role in their wellbeing.

 [00:02:25] Dana’s journey from healthcare executive to patient

 [00:06:25] The day everything changed

 [00:10:25] Facing fear and finding strength through uncertainty

 [00:14:25] How to communicate effectively with your doctor

 [00:18:25] Becoming your own advocate in a complex system

 [00:22:25] Coordinating your care and building a support team

 [00:27:25] What it means to be prepared before a crisis hits

 [00:33:25] Lessons from both sides of the healthcare system

 [00:38:25] Finding gratitude and growth through survival

 [00:43:25] Final reflections on courage, hope, and advocacy

✨Connect with Dana Sherwin:

· Email: dana.sherwin@gmail.com

· Resource: The Journal of Patient Experience (Open Access)

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desherwin/

✨ Connect with Michele Simms:

• Website: thebeautyinthemess.com
• Instagram: @the.beauty.in.the.mess
• LinkedIn: Michele Simms
• Facebook Group: The Beauty in the Mess Podcast

💬 Rate & Review

· Loved this episode? Please consider leaving a 5-star review and sharing it with a friend!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.