Episodios

  • Can you really get sick from mold? Let's talk about CIRS: Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
    Jan 28 2026

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, hosts Jacie and Barbara explain what Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is, how to get diagnosed, and how to treat it. They cover sources of biotoxin exposure that can make you sick and what kind of binders work best for these toxins. Jacie and Barbara also discuss the importance of genetic predisposition, the diagnostic criteria, and testing you can do, including visual contrast sensitivity tests and relevant blood markers. They'll also cover the Shoemaker Protocol for treatment, and acknowledge that many of us need to treat co-infections and other long term damage for complete recovery. This episode aims to empower listeners with the knowledge to seek appropriate treatment and navigate this chronic illness effectively.

    TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 01:09 What is CIRS? 01:32 Common sources of biotoxins that can make you sick 06:01 How CIRS causes inflammation and multiple symptoms 08:10 Why most doctors miss CIRS 09:47 Common ways CIRS is misdiagnosed 11:00 The CIRS Symptom Clusters, and how to get diagnosed with CIRS 16:25 Treating CIRS 20:07 Side Quests (co-infections, damage repair) in CIRS recovery 22:00 We hope you find healing!

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    HELPFUL LINKS: Our episode on the Symptom Clusters: https://youtu.be/RyKff3TWBZo VCS Test: https://www.survivingmold.com/store/online-vcs-screening Our episode on which bloodmarkers to test: https://youtu.be/XMtbxLLZzaU Genetic test for CIRS: https://www.lifeextension.com/lab-testing/itemlc100087/hla-dr-mold-genetic-test Our CIRS vs Mold Illness episode: https://youtu.be/ZlYoAcV7uUo Shoemaker Protocol research: https://www.survivingmold.com/Downloads/Dooley-McMahon_Final_Publication_-_3-30-2020.pdf https://www.survivingmold.com/Publications/CIRS_diagnostic_protocol_final_5_1_2018.pdf Our episode on the right CIRS Binders: https://youtu.be/KAQfLXuPjFI

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    23 m
  • Do you have Hashimoto's? Are you at risk? Take care of your thyroid health while treating CIRS
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, hosts Jacie and Barbara explore the connection between Hashimoto's disease and chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS). They dive into the importance of early diagnosis, crucial blood tests, and the differences between conventional and functional treatments. The episode also includes personal anecdotes and practical tips for managing thyroid health, touching on topics like diet, stress management, and the significance of tracking symptoms.

    TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and disclaimer 00:26 Continuing our autoimmune series 00:51 Understanding Hashimoto's Disease 02:40 Symptoms and diagnosis of Hashimoto's 07:50 Hashimoto's causes and triggers 12:29 Treatment Options 13:27 Symptom management with lifestyle changes 18:31 Tracking and monitoring your health 21:43 Community Support

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    23 m
  • Is it possible to work out with chronic illness? Tips and tricks to get back into the gym SAFELY!
    Jan 14 2026

    In this episode of the CIRS Group podcast, hosts Barbara and Jacie dive into the complex topic of working out while dealing with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). They discuss the challenges, benefits, and strategies for maintaining a workout routine despite the debilitating symptoms that CIRS can cause, such as fatigue, joint pain, and hypometabolism. Listeners are advised to consult their healthcare practitioners for personalized advice. Additional insights include using AI for creating custom workout plans, tracking progress, and when to hire a professional to help you. Tune in for practical advice, personal experiences, and motivation to help you navigate your fitness journey alongside CIRS.

    00:00 Introduction and disclaimer 01:23 How CIRS affects your ability to exercise 02:32 Benefits of exercise during CIRS treatment 04:36 Slowly ramp up exercise to avoid Push and Crash 07:07 Using AI and professional help for fitness plans 08:15 How Barbara got back into exercise after surgery 10:20 Getting started is the hardest part 12:17 Tracking progress, using apps or AI, and when to hire a coach 16:08 The best workout to do is the one you'll actually do and enjoy! 17:37 Everyone is different!

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    HELPFUL LINKS! Dr. Stuart McGill's website: https://www.backfitpro.com/ Barbara's PT that built her post-surgery workout program: https://www.d1physicaltherapy.com/

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    19 m
  • Is it mold illness or CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome)? And does it matter?
    Jan 7 2026

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, Barbara and Jacie delve into the distinctions between mold illness and CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome). They clarify the confusion surrounding these terms, which are often used interchangeably online, and emphasize the importance of understanding the Shoemaker Protocol for those genetically predisposed to CIRS. They'll cover how to find out if you have the genetic markers associated with CIRS, how to get properly diagnosed so you don't waste time and money on the wrong treatment, and why generic mold detox methods may not be sufficient for CIRS patients. They'll also discuss the hidden dangers of antifungal agents and the importance of targeting specific biotoxins in treatment. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking clarity and effective treatment options to heal from chronic illness.

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 01:44 Understanding mold illness vs CIRS 03:12 Why your genetics matter, and how to diagnose CIRS 04:58 Why some people get sick and others don't 06:25 Shoemaker Protocol vs. Mold Detox Protocols 07:00 Pros and Cons with Dr. Neil Nathan or Dr. Jill Cresta protocols 11:09 Importance of accurate testing for diagnosis 13:58 Taking the right binders and treating MARCoNs 16:43 Tracking symptoms, hormones, and bloodwork during treatment 19:28 Azole (antifungal) treatment 22:48 Why we warn people against mainstream mold doctors 23:52 Final Thoughts and Resources

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    Genetic test for CIRS: https://www.lifeextension.com/lab-testing/itemlc100087/hla-dr-mold-genetic-test Our episode on urinary mycotoxin tests: https://youtu.be/qWIIBaMybFA?si=gY6w_JmuuPn1pdOk MARCoNs test: https://www.microbiologydx.com/order-collection-kits Study showing antifungals or -azoles causing brain atrophy (search the text using control + F for 'antifungal' or 'atrophy'): https://www.oatext.com/metabolism-molecular-hypometabolism-and-inflammation-complications-of-proliferative-physiology-include-metabolic-acidosis-pulmonary-hypertension.php

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    25 m
  • What the future holds for The CIRS Group in 2026
    Dec 31 2025

    Join us at https://www.thecirsgroup.com/ Sign up for our next live Q&A webinar: https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama

    It's the last 2025 episode of The CIRS Group podcast! Hosts Jacie and Barbara share their exciting plans for 2026, including upgrades in podcast quality, fun new merchandise, and including more expert-led classes within the membership. They also talk about personal updates, including Barbara's upcoming wedding and health treatments, and Jacie's insights on nervous system regulation. Join the conversation about their goals for the new year by commenting below what YOU want to see in 2026 from TCG. The CIRS Group plans to continue providing valuable resources and support, so thank you for watching and supporting this channel!

    TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 00:30 Poop talk 01:41 Improved production quality and content! 03:13 Transcripts, Printables, worksheets, and more! 04:19 Merchandise! Want some merch? 05:42 Expert Workshops and CIRS Group membership benefits 07:48 Email newsletters and Q&A webinars 09:35 CIRSx 2026 11:13 Barbara's personal updates and 2026 plans 15:00 Jacie's personal updates and 2026 plans 15:56 Nervous System Regulation insights 17:02 Jacie's word for the year: Stewardship 20:36 Final thoughts and encouragement

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Sign up for our next live Q&A webinar: https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    23 m
  • Ask us anything! Live Q&A Session with Barbara and Jacie of The CIRS Group
    Dec 17 2025

    Please note: we filmed this back in November, and moved some episodes around - any comments about the CIRS Summit are a bit out of date, but you can still watch the replays by visiting https://cirs-summit-2025.heysummit.com/

    Sign up to get notified next time we do a live Q&A! https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama

    In this special episode of the CIRS Group podcast, Barbara and Jacie answer a variety of questions during a live, recorded Q&A webinar. Topics discussed include identifying whether you have CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome), the Shoemaker treatment protocol, managing symptoms, dietary changes, and the effectiveness of different binders. They also cover secondary topics like dealing with Lyme disease and tick borne illness, experiencing muscle weakness, and incorporating therapies like cranial sacral and lymphatic drainage for better detox. A must-watch for anyone navigating the complexities of CIRS and seeking expert advice on the path to healing.

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Sign up to get notified next time we do a live Q&A! https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama

    TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and Disclaimer 03:01 How do I know if I have CIRS? 07:19 Can I heal on a low dose of welchol? 08:27 Why utilizing a CIRS literate doctor is important 10:00 Tips to poop regularly when taking binders 12:20 How to know when VIP treatment has worked 14:54 Who gets CIRS? What causes CIRS? 16:17 How to manage histamine responses to food 19:43 Addressing Co-Infections: Lyme and Bartonella 24:14 How long does it take to heal? 27:48 Gall Bladder issues in CIRS patients 29:01 MARCoNs Test: Can You Do It Yourself? 29:44 Challenges with binders and intensification or herx reactions 31:56 Binders and The Paper Towel metaphor 33:16 Join the CIRS Group Community 34:37 Addressing full ileostomy concerns 36:37 Muscle weakness and how to build strength 40:51 When to incorporate VIP treatment for neuroinflammation 44:29 Cranial Sacral and Lymphatic Drainage Therapy 50:39 Gut Pain - should I try VIP? Or work with Dr. Lacey 53:51 Final Thoughts and Resources

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    HELPFUL LINKS: CIRS Summit: https://cirs-summit-2025.heysummit.com/ Find a Shoemaker Certified practitioner or coach: https://www.survivingmold.com/shoemaker-protocol/list-of-certified-practitioners https://www.survivingmold.com/shoemaker-protocol/surviving-mold-proficiency-partners-diplomates Interview with Dr. Lacey re: GI issues: https://youtu.be/baldT8N7nl4?si=TjgkHXmG8J9psKRQ Interview with Dr. Christian Navarro-Torres re: Neuroquant MRIs: https://youtu.be/Lc_LfUeiYTM?si=LtVBCRRicVbVKLgS Order MARCoNs testing: https://www.microbiologydx.com/order-collection-kits Dr. April's website for cranial manipulation: https://www.recoverfrommold.com/ Work with Dr. Lacey on gut issues: https://www.drlacey.org/ Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    55 m
  • What to Buy Someone with Chronic Illness | CIRS Patient Gift Ideas
    Dec 10 2025

    Join Jacie and Barbara for a cozy holiday episode of The CIRS Group Podcast as they share their favorite gift ideas for the chronic illness community. From simple stocking stuffers to big-ticket wellness upgrades, they walk through options at every price point so you can find something thoughtful—whether you're shopping on a tight budget or going all-out.

    You’ll hear practical picks like Epsom salts and blue-light–blocking glasses, mid-range tools that make daily life easier, and even a few dream splurges like an infrared sauna. They also talk about the gifts that cost nothing at all—acts of service, support, and presence—because those often matter the most.

    Settle in and gather inspiration for meaningful gifts that can brighten the season for the CIRS or chronic illness warrior in your life.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome to The CIRS Group Podcast

    00:51 – Under $25: Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas

    03:12 – $25–$75: Everyday Wellness Upgrades

    06:26 – $75–$150: Mid-Tier Health Investments

    09:32 – $150–$400: High-End Health Gifts

    13:21 – Splurge Gifts: Over $400

    15:59 – Non-Monetary Gifts & Acts of Service

    17:42 – Closing Thoughts & Holiday Wishes

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group:

    Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com I

    nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources:

    Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory

    Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching:

    Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    18 m
  • CIRS Summit 2025 Sneak Peek: the talks you won't want to miss!
    Dec 3 2025

    Register for The CIRS Summit 2025! It's free! https://cirs-summit-2025.heysummit.com/

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    Welcome to another episode of The CIRS Group podcast with Barbara and Jacie! In today's episode, we dive into the details of the upcoming CIRS Summit 2025 happening on December 13th and 14th. The summit will have a great mix of expert interviews on a wide range of topics related to CIRS. From environmental biotoxins and brain health, to legal advice and family dynamics, there is something for everyone. We'll also talk more about how to register for the event, access replays, and contribute to CIRS research. Check out the timestamps to see who's speaking, and register here: https://cirs-summit-2025.heysummit.com/

    TIMESTAMPS 00:01 The CIRS Summit 2025 01:20 This year's Summit is new and improved! 02:57 Register for the CIRS Summit 03:39 Summary of all the scheduled talks! and Disclaimer 03:58 Dr Ritchie Shoemaker - Lessons for Tomorrow from Lessons in the Past 04:33 Dr. Jennifer Smith - Complex Family Systems in CIRS 05:26 Max McCord - Diagnosing the Root Cause of Environmental Biotoxins 06:19 Dr. Andrea Jordheim - How to Improve Your Brain’s Cleaning and Repair System in CIRS 07:35 Mindy Mastruserio - Reclaiming Agency in CIRS: Healing the Self Beyond the Protocol 09:10 Dr. Christian Navarro Torres - How the Latest Nasal Swab Testing Can Help You Heal 10:00 Dr. Paula Kruppstadt - A Perspective on CIRS, Autism and PANS/PANDAS from a Functional Medicine Pediatrician 10:58 Dr. Lacey Venanzi - Are you Celiac or just gluten sensitive? 12:04 Julie Helm - From Reset to Regeneration: Bridging the Shoemaker Protocol to the Bredesen Protocol 13:00 Ian Siegel - How Giftedness Becomes a Curse in a Moldy School 13:55 Louise Carder - the Leptin Connection: Satiety, Signaling and Healing 15:00 Dr. Stacey McLure - Understanding the Skin Barrier: Structure, Function and Care 15:49 Ryan Schnack - How to Build A Strong Legal Case for CIRS 16:40 Dr. April Vukelic - Tips for Managing Back and Joint Pain with CIRS 19:20 Justin Carlson - New Tools for Living Safely with CIRS: Mold Map, Find a Mold Doctor and Aerlume 22:25 Final Thoughts and how to watch for free or get the replays

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com

    Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs

    The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/

    Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet! https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/

    Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara

    Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

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    25 m