Overcoming a rare, life-threatening illness inspired Dr. N. Karen Thames to leave a lucrative private practice to build her own non-profit foundation. The Chicago Campus Clinical Psychology graduate started The EPIC Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people living with invisible chronic illnesses, and supporting their family members and caregivers.
“The EPIC Foundation stands for Empowering People with Invisible Chronic Illness. Several years ago, I began having symptoms that could not be explained, including rapid weight gain, memory loss, and the sudden onset of diabetes and hypertension,” explained Dr. Thames. “I fought so hard to get an explanation about what was wrong – to no avail. I eventually became completely bedridden. After being increasingly ill for almost five years, I discovered that I had Cushing’s Disease after watching an episode of Mystery Diagnosis. Having treated clients who were impacted from living with chronic illness… I understand from both ends how valuable and critical it is to have support and feel like your voice is heard.”
The EPIC Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides support, advocacy, and tools to those affected by chronic illness. The foundation uniquely embraces the mind, body and spirit, by focusing on key human issues such as trauma and loss. These are the vital issues that are commonly ignored while treating chronic illnesses.
In her battle against Cushing’s disease, Dr. Thames has undergone brain surgery and removal of her adrenal glands. As a result, she now lives with several other chronic illnesses including adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, POTS, growth hormone deficiency, and hyperthyroidism. She takes over 20 medications daily, and maintains a strict treatment regimen to increase quality of life, and avoid fatal medical complications.
She doesn’t let any of this stop her, however. “Visualization is so powerful! I have a huge vision board that spans across the wall next to my bed. I look at the words on my vision board such as walk, run, perfect health, miracles. Even on the days when I can’t get out of bed, I roll over and look at my vision board. This motivates me every single day. It’s also important for me to leave a legacy for my daughters. I want them to understand the value of never giving up no matter what!”
As a licensed psychologist with expertise in trauma and marriage therapy, Dr. Thames provides a unique ability and perspective in helping those living with chronic illness. Being what she refers to as “a chronic illness warrior herself,” and having treated patients going through similar experiences, she knows first-hand how traumatic such experiences can be for patients, and their families/caregivers.
As she explains, “I understand that the journey of living with chronic illnesses can be quite traumatic. It may involve experiences including, but not limited to, seeking answers with no help, perhaps feeling failed by medical doctors, living with ups and downs, etc. As a psychologist, I am able to dedicate my training to empowering chronic illness warriors everywhere.”
Dr. Thames encourages mental health professionals to help bridge the gap between the mental health professional and patient communities.
To get involved, please contact Dr. Thames via email or through the EPIC website.
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