Medical Stories

Episode 1

Faith Over Fear

Fri, May 2, 2025

When she was just 17 years old, Salathiel had to be rushed to the ER because her feet had swollen to the point where she couldn't walk. Soon after, she was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that the Lupus Foundation of America says can cause issues ranging from joint pain and rashes to inflammation in the organs. Now 39, Salathiel found a new purpose in life by educating and helping others with lupus. In Savannah, Georgia, she opens up to Medical Stories about her near-death experience with the disease as well as how she's using her story to inspire others facing the same challenges. Meanwhile, in Plant City, Florida, Vietnam veteran Michael became concerned about his health when his brothers tested positive for a hereditary disorder. Called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), it often results in lung or liver disease, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders. After testing positive for AATD, Michael did not have much hope for himself, especially when his brothers died from complications with the condition. But as he tells Medical Stories, thanks to his doctors and his family, including his wife, Karon, the 77-year-old found the strength he needed to fight back and earn a "new lease on life." Faith Over Fear also features in-depth commentary from renowned experts Angela R. Crowley, MD, Rheumatology Specialist, Hinsdale Orthopedics, a Division of Illinois Bone and Joint Institute; Mark L. Brantly, MD, Professor of Medicine, University of Florida; and Ginger Clark, MD, MS, Professor of Medicine, University of Florida Gastroenterology Division.