Hi, I’m Kristina. Autoimmune warrior, connective tissue crusader, dog lover, and personal guide through the healthcare jungle. Chronic illness isn’t just my job—it’s my life. I’ve been through the ringer of misdiagnoses, medical gaslighting, and enough “we don’t know” to fill a bingo card. Spoiler alert: it sucks. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to navigate it alone.
After spending years advocating for myself (with a lot of trial and error), I turned my passion for patient empowerment into a profession. I’m now a Board Certified Patient Advocate armed with a healthcare background, a knack for decoding medical jargon, and a deep understanding of what it’s like to live in a body that’s constantly rebelling.
I’ve been where you are: frustrated, exhausted, and maybe a little scared. But I’m here to help you turn that frustration into action, confusion into clarity, and fear into confidence. Together, we’ll tackle the hurdles of chronic illness, one manageable step at a time.
How I Can Help You
Whether you’re new to the chronic illness club (I wish it weren’t so) or you’re a seasoned pro looking for an ally, my services are designed to meet you where you are.
1. Coaching: Your Health, Your Rules
Think of me as your chronic illness coach. I’ll help you organize your medical records, prep for appointments, craft game-changing questions and comebacks, and teach you how to advocate for yourself in a way that even the most intimidating specialists can’t ignore.
2. Family Liaison: Bridging the Gap
Ever tried explaining your illness to a family member who just doesn’t get it? I’ve been there. Let me help translate your experience into something they can understand. Together, we’ll foster empathy and support where it might be missing.
A liaison is also incredibly helpful for big transitions, such as a surgery or a senior transitioning from home or rehab to assisted living. All the moving pieces can be quite overwhelming. I can lay out a plan and help mediate common family issues.
3. Courses & Resources: The DIY Approach
If one-on-one isn’t your thing, I offer courses, templates, scripts, and checklists to help you advocate like a pro at your own pace. These are designed to save you energy (and maybe a few tears) while tackling the big stuff—insurance denials, test prep, provider communication, and more. You can find those offerings here.
4. Community Building: Find Your People
Living with chronic illness can feel isolating. Let’s change that. I can connect you with a community that aligns with your journey. Because no one should have to go it alone. My communities have monthly themes, interactive features, and live events. They are not Facebook Groups. I call them magical people places. You can check out the groups I have available here:
5. Diagnosis Dialed In
Getting a new diagnosis can be extremely overwhelming. What causes it? Why did it happen? Will it get worse? What treatments are available? How do I pick between two treatment options? I do the heavy lifting – researching and handing you all the information you need (in a easy to digest format) be 100% knowledgeable in your condition (so providers can’t pull a fast one on you) and to make a confident treatment decisions.
6. Self-Guided Advocacy Book
How to Be a Badass in a Broken Healthcare System teaches you how to navigate through the healthcare maze. Through raw, relatable (sometimes cringy) stories, and actionable strategies, this book offers a roadmap to help cut the time to diagnosis and treatment, reduce health anxiety, improve your support systems, and reclaim your power. Whether you’re a patient dealing with overwhelming uncertainty or an advocate fighting for someone you love, this book delivers the tools you need. Coming to Amazon March 2025.
Why Work With Me?
I Keep It Real. No fluff, no condescension—just straightforward support with a side of humor.
I’ve Been There. Diagnosed with seronegative Sjogren’s, Dysautonomia, and myasthenia gravis after years of misdiagnoses and medical gaslighting, I understand the hurdles of chronic illness firsthand.
I Know My Stuff. I’m a Board Certified Patient Advocate and healthcare nerd. Really, I read NIH articles for funsies.
Navigating chronic illness isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need a coach, a guide, or just someone who gets it, I’m here for you. Let’s team up and tackle your health journey together.
Little Engine Patient Advocacy is laying the tracks and will be full steam ahead in January 2025.
Little Engine Patient Advocacy 