Living with a Voice Disorder: Sue Payne on Spasmodic Dysphonia, the Disability Process, and Finding New Purpose

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Welcome to Season 5, Episode 22 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Living with a Voice Disorder: Sue Payne on Spasmodic Dysphonia, the Disability Process, and Finding New Purpose."

Thinking your voice doesn’t matter? Think again. In this powerful episode, disability law expert Nancy L. Cavey sits down with advocate and community leader Sue Payne - a Board Member of Dysphonia International and a force for change in the voice disorder community. Diagnosed with spasmodic dysphonia and cervical dystonia in 2017, Sue's life took a turn she never expected. But rather than retreat, she stepped up. With a background in public health, education, and corporate leadership, Sue shares how she navigated the loss of her literal voice - and the identity shifts that came with it. From applying for Long-Term Disability to organizing Walk for Talk events, mentoring others, and pushing for awareness and research, Sue offers a deeply personal look at what it means to turn a medical challenge into a mission. We explore what it’s like to advocate for yourself in a system that doesn’t always understand, how to find community when your voice feels silenced, and what real resilience looks like. Whether you’re living with a chronic condition, facing a disability claim, or just in need of some perspective, Sue’s story is a reminder: losing your voice doesn’t mean losing your power. Let’s dive in.

In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:

One - Sue’s Story and Advocacy Work

Two - Living With Spasmodic Dysphonia and Cervical Dystonia

Three - Long-Term Disability and Life Beyond Work

Whether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.


Listen to Our Sister Podcast:

We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/


Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mind

LINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefits

FREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/


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Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.