From Overwhelmed to Confident.

Most people with rheumatic diseases are given only one 20-minute appointment with a doctor every 3 months. They're left alone to figure out how to actually *live* with their condition, which leads them feeling lost and overwhelmed!

You could spend your valuable time figuring this all out on your own, but I want you to get started on the right foot as soon as possible.

Think of me as your tour guide, or orientation leader for your new "job" of living a full, vibrant life with rheumatic disease. It's possible to thrive with rheumatic disease, but it's hard to figure out precisely *how* on your own. You deserve guidance and support!

On your own versus with guidance

Learn from a fellow patient and expert

After earning a Masters in Occupational therapy and completing hundreds of hours of additional training, I've learned tools that are scientifically shown to help you manage pain, function in daily life, cope with stress and give you a sense of control over your disease.

I have also lived with rheumatoid arthritis for over nineteen years, so I truly understand how difficult and overwhelming it can be to navigate everyday life with a rheumatic disease.

I've compiled all my best, evidence based lessons into a step-by-step guide in the THRIVE framework. During the self-paced lessons, you'll learn how to improve your quality of life and take control of your health while also coping with the inevitable ups and downs .

Save Time and Energy with my Step by Step Guides

Trying to sort through the endless amount of websites about rheumatoid arthritis is overwhelming - that's why I assembled my lessons in step-by-step that you can go through at your own pace on your own time.

You *could* spend your valuable time figuring this all out on your own, but I want you to get started on the right foot with RA as soon as possible!

My goal is to empower you to learn ways to not just live but THRIVE with RA. You don't have to do this on your own.

From Alone to Supported

Have you ever felt alone on your chronic illness journey, or wished you could connect with someone who's going through the same thing? In the support group option, you get everything from the self-paced course PLUS access to a support group which meets 13 times over 5 months.

On our live video calls, Cheryl facilitates a support group session where you'll connect to a group of people who truly *get* what it's like to manage a complex autoimmune condition like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. You'll also have a chance to ask all of your burning questions and share your best tips for surmounting daily obstacles, from doing your hair with hand pain to explaining what your condition is to the same person for the fifth time!

Introducing Rheum to THRIVE!

An online empowerment program to help you adjust to your new normal with confidence and clarity.

What's Included?

Video lessons, handouts and the option of an online live support group!

  • Video Lessons

    Down to earth, accessible video lessons where you'll learn tools for improving your quality of life using the THRIVE framework. You can go through at your own pace!

  • Workbook & Handouts

    A workbook full of additional tutorials and templates, plus reflection questions. All presentation handouts are available to download.

  • Optional: Live Support Group

    Join a support group where you'll connect to others who "get it," share your stories and get ideas on how to navigate your biggest challenges. Have a friendly audience to *celebrate* your wins and validate your struggles! Each meeting also includes a live Q&A session with Cheryl.

Testimonials

What are people saying about Rheum to THRIVE and related programs?

"The wealth of information and the built-in support system are priceless."

Ashley B, 2021

Cheryl touches all the bases in this course, from the physical aspects of RA to how to manage the emotional side of this disease. Cheryl is approachable, relatable, and knowledgeable.

I HIGHLY recommend taking this course, especially if newly diagnosed. The wealth of information and the built-in support system are priceless.

"Valuable Tips, Close Community Atmosphere"

Suzanne, 2021

"Rheum to THRIVE is just what I had been craving since my RA diagnosis nearly two years ago. No more spinning my wheels over researching and overthinking.

Cheryl shares tools, tips and good information for living well with an autoimmune disease in a close community atmosphere. I am so grateful I joined this group!"

"Practical and Empowering"

Melissa, 2022

"Every topic we covered in Rheum to THRIVE was practical and empowering! The support and acceptance I found in this group has changed my attitude about living with chronic illness. "

"I feel so much less lonely, and a lot more hopeful."

Amy W., 2022

The journey of being diagnosed with a chronic illness is isolating, I felt lost trying to make sense of things on my own. This was my first experience of hearing real people talk about the real issues related to RA- and more importantly, how to cope.

I feel so much less lonely, and a lot more hopeful. Rheum to THRIVE has provided a much-needed sense of belonging to a community.

"I'm more confident and patient with myself"

C. S., 2022

"Before the program I would question myself and how I was feeling. Knowing that others feel similar has helped me to gain confidence in knowing my symptoms are not necessarily unique, imagined, or invalid. I am more confident that despite not having all the answers, I can be more patient with myself in approaching a solution."

"Compassion, Support & Resources"

Anonymous, June 2021

"Before Rheum to THRIVE, I thought I had to suffer in silence. I felt so alone and didn't know where to begin with researching my options for living with ankylosing spondylitis.

The group has offered so much compassion, validation, and encouragement, as well as a safe space to share. I've made new friends and also had access to additional resources and information for how to live with AS. I now know I'm not alone." - Anonymous, June 2021

"Everyone trying to thrive while battling RA deserves to have a toolbox and supportive community."

Jamie, 2020

The (program) gave me so many new tools to help manage my RA and validated so many of my feelings and the experiences I have encountered since being diagnosed. What has become just as valuable is the community that I have become a part of.

Everyone trying to thrive while battling RA deserves to have a toolbox and a supportive community as amazing as what Arthritis Life has created for me."

Validating and Empowering

Melissa McGrory, 2020

"I am SO grateful for you and can not say enough wonderful things about Cheryl! I’ve been on this journey since 2016 with no idea what I’m doing and it feels crippling at times to just be so out of control in your own body. I have learned so much, not just incredible tips for day to day, but also about the disease itself!

I cried so many tears of relief because I feel validated for the very first time. It was such an empowering opportunity to learn from you- I wish I had this years ago but I’m so happy to have it now!"

From lost to empowered.

Stephanie, 2020

"I felt so lost with my new RA diagnosis. I found Cheryl to be a wonderful, compassionate source of information. She encourages, supports, and offers insight to this new way of life. I feel more empowered now, more confident in myself and the choices I make for my health. The learning is non-judgmental, and leave you feeling stronger."

"Practical information that is rarely discussed in the rheumatologist's office."

Cristina, 2020. Lived with RA for 17 years

"I wish I had access to this information when I was diagnosed with RA 17 years ago. The coping tools provided by Cheryl are useful even for a seasoned patient like me.

I recommend it for the newly diagnosed to equip them with practical and evidence-based information that is rarely discussed in the rheumatologist's office."

The THRIVE framework:

Live a full life *with* rheumatic disease.

In this program, you will build a toolbox to help you THRIVE despite your condition. Each unit, Cheryl will walk you through one of the THRIVE framework pillars:

T = Tools for pain & fatigue

H = Habits (exercise, sleep, nutrition & more)

R = Relationships (managing social life with rheumatic disease)

I = Inner world (stress and mental health management)

V = Valued Activities / Hobbies (how we can connect to our main values and still do things we love despite our condition)

E = Executive functions (how to be the CEO of your care team).

Schedule & Pricing

Choose the self-study (available year-round) or the course + support group (available twice a year). Enrollment is currently closed for the support groups but you can join the waitlist to be the first to know when it opens again (tentatively scheduled for September, 2024).

  • Course: Self-Study

    ● 26 bite-sized yet comprehensive video lessons, created and delivered by Cheryl Crow. Citations provided for all facts referenced.

    ● Lessons cover how to manage physical symptoms (like pain and fatigue), cope with stress, manage social stressors, track symptoms and become the CEO of your care team.

    ● Over 300 pages of presentation handouts, which you can download and keep.

    $197.00 One Payment

    $49.00 x 4 Monthly Payments

  • Course + Support Group

    ● Includes all materials in the self-study course PLUS:

    ● 13 live video calls, facilitated by course creator Cheryl Crow. You'll connect to others with similar hopes and challenges.

    ● Includes access to all meeting recordings.

    ● Small group atmosphere: no more than 16 people per group.

    ● BONUS: private online group to continue connecting between meetings.

    ● Enrollment is currently closed. The next groups will start in September, 2024 - join waitlist to be the first to know when registration opens.

    WAIT LIST for next support groups

Course curriculum

Discover how to THRIVE with rheumatic disease during each step-by-step lesson.

  • 1

    Welcome!

    • Start Here: Welcome Video!

    • Orientation to Thinkific Platform

    • PDF Download: Welcome Presentation Slides

    • Course at a glance

    • Pre-Course Survey

    • Master Workbook (includes master toolbox and journal prompts)

    • Suggested Viewing Schedule: Complete Course in 12 weeks

  • 2

    Unit 1: Let's Start with the Basics

    • Lesson 1: Understanding Common Rheumatic Diseases & FAQs

    • Lesson 2: Overcome Overwhelm with Health Literacy

    • Lesson 3: You are not Alone - How to Assemble a Care Team

    • PDF Download: All Presentation Slides for Unit 1

  • 3

    Unit 2: Tools for Pain & Fatigue

    • Lesson 1: What is Rheumatic Disease Pain?

    • Lesson 2: What is Rheumatic Disease Fatigue?

    • Lesson 3: How to Prevent Pain in Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 4: How to Reduce Existing Pain in Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 5: Preventing & Reducing Fatigue and "Day in the Life" of Pain & Fatigue

    • PDF Download: All Presentation Slides for Unit 2

  • 4

    Unit 3: Helpful Habits

    • Lesson 1: Helpful / Healthy Habits 101

    • Lesson 2: Nutrition for Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 3: Exercise for Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 4: Sleep for Rheumatic Disease

    • Unit 3: PDF download of all presentation slides

  • 5

    Unit 4: Relationships - Manage Social Life with Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 1: Ways to Talk about Rheumatic Disease & Address Misconceptions

    • Lessons 2-3: Focus on Friendships, Family & Romantic Relationships

    • Lesson 4: Tips for Work and Work Relationships

    • PDF Download: Unit 4 Presentation Slides

  • 6

    Unit 5: Inner World - Manage Stress & Big Emotions

    • Lesson 1: Intro to Stress & Rheumatic Disease

    • Lesson 2: Cognitive Behavior Therapy & Intro to Mindfulness

    • Lesson 3: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

    • Lesson 4: More Tools & Put Together your Coping Toolbox

    • 5_Unit 5_ Inner World (1)-compressed

  • 7

    Unit 6: Values, Valued Activities and "Doing what Matters"

    • Lesson 1: Identifying my Values

    • Lesson 2: Finding Joy & Problem Solving when Barriers Come Up

    • PDF Download: Unit 6 All Slides

  • 8

    Unit 7: Executive Functioning - Become the CEO of your Care Team

    • Lesson 1: Intro to Executive Functions and tips for getting organized

    • Lesson 2: Tips for Effective Appointments & Making Difficult Decisions.

    • Lesson 3: Put it all together: How to advocate and become the CEO of your care team.

    • PDF Download: Unit 7 All Slides

  • 9

    Unit 8: THRIVE Toolbox & Course Conclusion

    • Lesson 1 - Course Review & Master Toolbox

    • Lesson 2 - Congratulations & Next Steps

    • PDF Download - Unit 8

    • Post Course Survey

Is Rheum to THRIVE a good fit for me?

This program is for you if:

  • You have a rheumatic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, or a chronic illness that involves pain and / or fatigue.

  • You are overwhelmed with figuring out how to manage your condition in your daily life.

  • You feel alone, and/or would like to connect with others in a supportive environment (for the support group option).

  • You are interested in learning how to manage the disease through coping strategies and lifestyle choices (such as mindfulness, exercise and altering how you approach tasks).

Who is not a good fit for Rheum to THRIVE?

This education and support group isn't for you if:

  • Your primary goal is to cure your condition. This program can be taken alongside complementary or alternative medicine therapies, but this program does not claim to teach a way to heal or cure your disease. The focus is on minimizing symptoms, adapting to what's occurring in the present moment, and maximizing our quality of life *despite* our condition.

  • You don't want to commit the time and energy required to learn how to manage your condition.

  • You don't believe that mindset changes or daily living change will make a difference, or you believe you will feel badly no matter what you do. This course is for people who believe they *can* make an impact on their quality of life through their choices.

FAQ

  • Does this program only apply to rheumatoid arthritis? What about other similar conditions?

    Cheryl developed the Rheum to THRIVE framework and core content for people with rheumatic, autoimmune diseases that involve some degree of pain and fatigue (such as psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, lupus and other rheumatic diseases). The "tools for pain and fatigue" and "healthy habits" contain research and tips for these specific conditions.

    That said, approximately 75% of the content applies to any chronic, invisible condition, particularly the "inner world, relationships, valued activities and executive functions" units.

    People who've taken the program who have fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and other similar conditions have taken the program and provided positive reviews.

    Please email me at: [email protected] for specific questions and I can help you determine if this course is the right fit for you!

  • What's the live meeting schedule for the support group?

    There are three different groups you can choose from for the September-December 2023 groups. The program is cohort-based so you will choose one group and stay with it the whole time. 1) MONDAYS: 7:30pm ET / 4:30pm PT 2) TUESDAYS: 5:00pm ET / 2:00pm PT 3) WEDNESDAYS: 12:30pm ET / 9:30am PT

  • How many people are in each of the live support groups?

    Each group has a maximum of 16 people. This allows for us to get to know each other and for each person to have a chance to share and connect.

  • Is financial assistance available?

    Yes, I provide sliding scale "pay what you can" options and financial assistance. I never want pricing to prevent someone from getting the help they want and deserve! Fill out the scholarship application form at bit.ly/rttscholarship (case sensitive) or email [email protected] for details

  • Is this program relevant even if I've had a rheumatic disease for many years?

    Yes! Because many patients never are given adequate education or support in the tools discussed in Rheum to THRIVE, it can benefit those who've had their diagnosis for years.

    As Cristina said when she took the program in 2020, "I wish I had access to this information when I was diagnosed with RA 17 years ago. The coping tools provided by Cheryl are useful even for a seasoned patient like me. I particularly enjoyed the last section on intimacy and relationships. I recommend this course for the newly diagnosed to equip them with practical and evidence-based information that is rarely discussed in the rheumatologist's office."

  • Can I join the support groups at any time during the year?

    No; the live group programs are available to join once in the spring and once in the fall. Spots are available on a first come, first served basis.

    Having a set start and end date and closed cohorts allows members to get to know each other and form a cohesive community and safe space to share.

    If you miss out this time, you may join the waitlist for when registration opens again. Email [email protected] to be added to the waitlist for the next group!

  • What if I would like support beyond the 12 week support group?

    Cheryl also offers an ongoing weekly support group exclusively for people who've completed the Rheum to THRIVE course or the course + supoprt group. This group meets weekly and it's called "THRIVE Graduates."

    Since rheumatic diseases are chronic and ongoing, it's beneficial to surround yourself with consistent sources of encouragement, support, and information-sharing!

  • What if I want a refund or wish to cancel?

    You are welcome to request a refund at any time within the first 30 days of the program. I will just will ask you to provide feedback so that I can learn and continue to make this program the best it can be.

    If you are on the monthly payment plan and need to cancel before the full 6 months of payments is complete, I am happy to do that for you or pause your participation until a future group at a better time for you.

  • If I take this program am I receiving occupational therapy services from Cheryl?

    No. Cheryl has training as an occupational therapist, but in this program she is providing general education that is *informed by* her expertise as an occupational therapist. This program is not a substitute for individual or group occupational therapy services. Cheryl is licensed to provide these services in Washington State and does so on a limited basis at this time. More details can be found in the course medical disclaimer.

Join today!

It's time to gain the clarity, connection and confidence you deserve as you adjust to your new normal. You don't have to do this on your own!

Instructor Bio & Credentials

Cheryl Crow is an award-winning occupational therapist who specializes in helping people with rheumatic diseases maximize quality of life in *all* areas, not just joint pain.

Course Creator

Cheryl Crow

Cheryl earned a Masters in Occupational Therapy in 2012 from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA.

Cheryl frequently is asked to share her expert opinion on ways people can successfully manage daily living challenges with rheumatoid arthritis. She has written articles and/or been interviewed for: Everyday Health, RheumatoidArthritis.net, AnkylosingSpondylitis.net, Creaky Joints, The Mighty, and Mamas Facing Forward.

In 2019 Cheryl formed Arthritis Life to educate, empower and inspire others with arthritis.

Cheryl has devoted many additional hours to continuing education in the area of chronic disease management and rheumatoid arthritis specifically, including:

- Certification as an educator for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

- Completion of USC's "Introduction to Lifestyle Redesign" training

- "Systematic Review of Educational Interventions for Rheumatoid Arthritis"

- "Effectiveness of Occupational Therapy Interventions for Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review"

- "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Beginners" (Psychwire)

- "Fatigue Management Occupational Therapy for Individuals with Autoimmune Disease"

- "Arthritis of the Upper Extremity"

- "Occupational Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy"

- "Persisting Pain: Understanding why Things Hurt"

Cheryl has also developed and facilitated a training for other occupational therapists titled: "Beyond Joint Pain: Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis from the Full Scope of Occupational Therapy."