After 32 years in nursing, Necole McDaniel found herself on the patient side of healthcare.

In Season 2, Episode 15, Necole McDaniel, BSN, RN, TCRN, CEN, joins Trent Peterson for a candid conversation about medical gaslighting, chronic illness, patient advocacy, nursing burnout, fear, family, community, and the choice to live beyond a diagnosis.

Necole shares how being a patient changed the way she sees bedside care; why invisible illness and a polished appearance can delay recognition; and how documenting symptoms, building a medical binder, bringing support to appointments, and asking clear questions can help patients participate more fully in their care.

She also speaks openly about her lived experience with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome, gastroparesis, total parenteral nutrition, recurrent anaphylaxis, chronic pain, and the emotional weight of an uncertain future.

Through it all, Necole returns to a central truth: illness may change parts of your life, but it does not get to become your whole identity.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• What burnout can look like in nursing and caregiving • What being a patient taught a career nurse • Medical gaslighting, invisible illness, and delayed answers • Practical ways to organize medical records and prepare for appointments • Living with risk without allowing fear to control your life • Why recovery plateaus can be places to rest—not places to stop • The importance of caregiver support, community, dignity, and being seen • Why an invitation still matters, even when someone cannot attend • Holding on to your identity beyond illness

Necole appears in her personal capacity and speaks only for herself.

This podcast is provided for education and personal storytelling only. It is not medical advice. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your own symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, medications, or care decisions.

CONTENT NOTE: This episode includes discussion of severe illness, anaphylaxis, chronic pain, hospitalization, malnutrition, medical trauma, workplace violence, infant loss, and a brief account of emotional crisis and asking for help.

▶️ WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@thebrokenroadprojectpodcast?si=iCaWvo5zz8oHV7AS

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You Are Not Alone.

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