Climbing Mountains: Life with Ankylosing Spondylitis and a Spinal Cord Stimulator

In this deeply personal episode of Thrive with Sharon: Real Talk for Chronic Illness Warriors, I take you behind the scenes of my life with a spinal cord stimulator and what it’s been like recovering from five surgeries in one year.

I share what living with an implanted pain-management device is really like the daily adjustments, unexpected challenges, and the relief that helped me realise just how much pain I had been carrying for years.

I also speak openly about Ankylosing Spondylitis — a rare, degenerative autoimmune condition and the physical, emotional, and social realities of living with chronic pain, disability, and invisible illness.

This episode is a reminder that resilience isn’t about pushing harder. It’s about adjusting slowly, honouring your body, and finding strength in small, steady steps forward.

✨ In this episode, I cover:

• What a spinal cord stimulator is and how it works

• The realities of chronic pain and complex surgeries

• Mindset shifts that support healing and resilience

• Why small adjustments can lead to powerful change

🎁 Support mentioned in this episode:

Download my free Spoonie Tools — journaling guides and daily practices to help manage pain, energy, and emotional load.

If you’re ready for personalised support, you can book a coaching session and we’ll create a plan that works for your body and your life.

Take gentle care and keep thriving.

💚 Let’s stay connected: Sharon Jones’ Pages

Or, if you’re ready for support on your journey, you can book a call with me here: sjresiliencecoach.com/lets-talk