Posts by: Kate Spencer

Kate Spencer

I am a freelance writer who volunteers with several animal rescue organizations. I enjoy reading, working in the garden, and gluten-free baking.

April 8, 2020April 3, 2020

Getting Creative Despite Feeling Blue

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

It’s difficult not to feel at least a little blue in the midst of this coronavirus pandemic. I bet even the most positive people are feeling the effects of ... Read more

March 25, 2020March 20, 2020

Letting Go of ‘Should’ with Sarcoidosis

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I read a magazine article years ago shortly after my sarcoidosis diagnosis. It covered the topic of the “shoulds” in life. The article defined a “should” as an item ... Read more

March 11, 2020March 9, 2020

Good Intentions Gone Awry with Sarcoidosis

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I began the year with good intentions. I simply wanted to invite more fun and less stress into my life. The first sign that my intentions for 2020 were ... Read more

February 26, 2020February 24, 2020

This Is What Makes Me Rare with Sarcoidosis

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I have a rare health condition called sarcoidosis, which causes extreme fatigue, joint pain, and difficulty breathing. It can affect all of the major organs, including the lungs, heart, ... Read more

February 19, 2020February 14, 2020

I’m Feeling Good About Doing Nothing and Just Being

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I often am my own worst enemy. Well, sarcoidosis is actually my worst enemy. But I’d say I’m a close second. I know I need to take good care ... Read more

February 12, 2020February 10, 2020

Taking a Road Trip to the Atlantic Coast

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

My husband is heading out on an impromptu business trip. Coincidentally, his destination is just minutes from one of our favorite vacation spots. I could easily stay home, but ... Read more

February 5, 2020February 4, 2020

Winter Photography Might Be Just What the Doctor Ordered

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I mentioned in a previous column my desire to embrace winter this year. As I’m writing this, it has been unseasonably warm here in the Northeast. Warmer temperatures help ... Read more

January 29, 2020January 24, 2020

I’m Altering My Approach to Traveling with Sarcoidosis

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I miss traveling. Because of sarcoidosis, sleep difficulties, equilibrium challenges, pain, and constant fatigue must be considered. Other types of travel are no longer feasible, so I mostly stick ... Read more

January 22, 2020January 20, 2020

Applying the Rules of Improv to Sarcoidosis Management

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

Years ago, I took a young family member to acting classes for eight weeks. The class focused on improvisation, also known as improv. During that two-month period, I learned ... Read more

January 15, 2020January 10, 2020

I Want to Embrace Winter, Even with Sarcoidosis

Columns, Life Altered - a Column by Kate Spencer

I previously wrote about the challenge of living with sarcoidosis during the four seasons. Each season has its difficulties. Yet I can’t imagine living without the change in weather. ... Read more