When the Advocate Becomes the Patient: A Personal Reflection with Ailene Gerhardt

In this deeply personal solo episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt, board-certified patient advocate and founder of the Navigating Solo™ Network, shares what it’s been like to shift from supporting others through health challenges to facing a health challenges of her own.

Ailene reflects on the emotional and physical toll of multiple diagnoses, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatments—all while living independently. She speaks candidly about the loss of routine, the disruption to her work, and the vulnerability of stepping into the role of patient after years of advocating for others.

Through sharing her story, Ailene explores:

• The blurred line between professional advocate and patient

• How illness can challenge identity and sense of control

• The critical importance of compassionate, person-centered care

• What it means to be present for yourself when your life feels upended

• How asking for help and acknowledging limitations can be acts of strength

This episode is a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a whole person—and that even those who guide others through healthcare systems need support too.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about the Navigating Solo™ Network: https://navigatingsolo.com

• Listen to past episodes of the podcast: @navigatingsolo

• Ailene has also written an article for Next Avenue about her experience and you can read it here!

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

• Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [e-mail]
• The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [e-mail]
• The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [e-mail]

View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

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© 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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