How I Learned to Ask for Support with HS
The Mighty
April 2021
At first, it was hard for me to share my illness with people I wasn’t close yet with. I worried that I would be judged or that they would see me as a burden. I didn’t want to ask for too much. I also wasn’t even sure how they could help.
6 Ways Real People Manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa Armpit Flare-Ups
SELF
March 2021
Here's how real people manage hidradenitis suppurativa armpit flare-ups, which can be painful and difficult to manage.
5 Ways People Manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa Odor From Flare-Ups
SELF
March 2021
It can take a lot of trial and error to manage the hidradenitis suppurativa smell associated with flare-ups
The First Doctor to Take My Pain Seriously Wasn't a Gyno, But a Talk Therapist
HelloGiggles
July 2019
In high school, I had my first pelvic exam after suffering from a series of UTIs. I laid back and put my legs in the stirrups while she put on gloves and brought out the child speculum. Upon insertion, I screamed out so loudly that I’m pretty sure the entire clinic heard me
When career stress worsened my chronic condition, I had to find my identity outside of the entertainment industry
HelloGiggles
April 2019
HG contributor Allyson Byers discusses her chronic skin condition, how the stress of her career worsened the pain, and how she found an identity outside of her job.
Here's Why I Dress Up for Therapy (And Why You Should Try It, Too)
Healthline
February 2019
We dress for all kinds of occasions…why not this? Here’s why what you wear to therapy might matter, in addition to what you talk about.
Dating Apps Helped Me Explore My Sexuality & Find a Place in LA's Lesbian Scene
Elite Daily
February 2019
Dating apps helped me become more comfortable with who I am. I didn’t have to put on a show. I didn’t have to put on a sports uniform and pretend to be someone else. Instead, I could gush about my passion for mental health and food, and match with others who feel similarly.
What We Learned in Therapy
October 2018
My Wellbeing
Allyson Byers, inspired by a great Buzzfeed article about the benefits of therapy, shares with us today an insightful series of quotes from real people going to therapy every week about what they found to be the benefits along the way. You may see a familiar name or two in there.
What’s It Like to Be Suicidal? This Is My Experience, and How I Got Through It
Healthline
November 2018
Here are four ways my suicidal ideation shows up, and how I’ve learned to cope.
Why I'm Glad I Gave My Therapist a Second Chance
My Wellbeing
October 2018
I have something to admit: I really didn’t like my therapist when I first met her. I walked out of our first session with no intention of returning. Therapy is now the highlight of my week, and I am so grateful for this woman who pushes me to be the best I can be.
Antidepressants Have Changed Who I Am—And That's Okay
Ravishly
September 2018
I’m doing all I can to learn how to accept my new identity and this new normal because at the end of the day, my medication is keeping me alive — and that’s the most important thing.
8 Things Everyone Should Know Before Seeing a Therapist
Greatist
August 2018
If you're thinking about starting therapy, learn from my mistakes—here are the top things I wish I'd known before starting therapy.
My Therapist Helped Me Come Out as Queer
HelloGiggles
June 2018
I truly believe that I would have never come out if my therapist hadn’t guided me toward my authentic self. Every day, I am grateful to her for pushing me to admit what I want out of a relationship.
What It's Really Like Going Through a Deep, Dark Depression
Healthline
June 2018
I thought everyone Googled suicide methods from time to time. They don’t. Here’s how I’ve recovered from a dark depression.
Why Going to Pelvic Floor Therapy Transformed My Life
Healthline
June 2018
When my therapist emphasized the fact that I had my first successful pelvic exam, I found myself suddenly crying tears of happiness.
I Have a Rare, Chronic Skin Condition, and I Went to Questionable Lengths Looking for a Cure
SELF Magazine
June 2018
I was desperate to solve my Hidradenitis Suppurativa and ended up spending hundreds of dollars on questionable treatments.
Building a Network Worthy of Being Leaned On
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
February 2018
Why it’s important to build a great network, and how to do so more effectively.
Success in Your Culture
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
December 2017
Everyone perceives culture differently. Learn how to be successful in your company's culture.
What's Culture Got to Do With It?
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
December 2017
There's a lot of talk about company culture. So what is culture, really, and why does it matter?
How I Got This Job: Casting Assistant
The Billfold
November 2017
I moved to LA with no job lined up. Here's how I ended up working in the casting department at Jimmy Kimmel Live.
My Chronic Skin Condition Made Me Quit the Gym
SELF Magazine
August 2017
I fell in love with indoor cycling three years ago, but my Hidradenitis Suppurativa forced me to quit.
"I Have a Rare Disease That Causes Painful Abscesses and Boils on My Skin"
Health.com
August 2017
I recount my struggle with the painful skin condition Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
"You Should Wear This"
Refinery29
July 2017
My favorite sleeveless black dress had been pushed to the back of my closet after being diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
_______________________
Learning to Be Comfortable by Yourself
Medium
July 2017
I try and spend as little time by myself as possible, because when I’m by myself, that’s when the dark thoughts start to come.
_______________________
A Day in My Life During a Hidradenitis Suppurativa Flare-up
The Mighty
May 2017
I hate going to sleep at night, especially when I’ve had one of my “good” days.
_______________________
Living Across the Country Doesn't Mean I Don't Love My Family
Medium
April 2017
Saying goodbye is never easy, no matter how many times you do.
_______________________
Inside Verily: The First 'No Photoshop' Fashion Magazine
Lean In
November 2013
The founders of Verily have pledged not to use photoshop on their pages. They explain why we need more realistic beauty standards.
_______________________
Meet the Woman Behind NYC's 'I'm a Girl' Project
Lean In
October 2013
A new citywide campaign is the first of its kind to tackle body image and girls' self-esteem. The campaign's creator speaks about her inspiration.
________________________
Holiday Events in Chicago, Winter 2011–2012
Time Out Chicago
November 2011
The holiday season is upon us, whether you’re ready or not. Here’s a growing list of holiday happenings—we’re updating it as more events are announced. We’re even adding NYE shindigs at the end of the list.
_______________________
Lakeview is for lovers
Time Out Chicago
October 2011
(PDF Version)
Forget up-and-coming neighborhoods like Logan Square and Bridgeport. If you’re looking for steamy hookups, there’s only one place to live.
_______________________
Fashion’s Night Out 2011
Time Out Chicago
September 2011
(PDF version)
Not sure which shops to visit during Fashion’s Night Out, the nationwide fashion party taking place Thursday 8? Dozens of stores are hosting events that will include fashion shows, cocktails, major discounts and, uh, reality TV stars. Here are our picks of the top parties to attend.
_______________________
Gambling is my life
Time Out Chicago
August 2011
(PDF version)
From dealer to pro poker player to bookie, five locals share tales from inside the betting biz.
_______________________
First lady sees economic benefit in curbing childhood obesity
Medill News Service
March 15, 2011
If ignored it’s an issue that can drastically alter the economic landscape for generations to come.” — first lady Michele Obama, speaking Tuesday to the National League of Cities convention.
_______________________
Gates Foundation, U.S. partner to reduce infant and mother deaths
Medill News Service
March 9, 2011
Every two minutes, a woman dies during childbirth. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the U.S. Agency for International Development announced a new partnership Wednesday to reduce those statistics. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton talked about the plans on Wednesday.
_______________________
As administration pushes for more charter schools, quality remains a concern
Medill News Service
March 7, 2011
If the administration has its way, more charter schools will open across the country as part of President Barack Obama’s plan to offer more choice in public education. Meet the students, parents and educators on the front lines of the fight to open — and close — charter schools.
_______________________
One school believes ‘inspired’ teachers are the answer
Medill News Service
March 7, 2011
The Inspired Teaching School isn’t your typical charter school. It doesn’t offer a groundbreaking educational experience and its founders don’t necessarily believe charter schools are the answer to improving education.
_______________________
Senators grill Duncan on spending
Medill News Service
March 1, 2011
Education Secretary Arne Duncan on Tuesday defended the administration’s plan to increase spending on education by 11 percent in its budget proposal for next year. But he was pressed hard by Republicans, who say that the country does not have the money to support the ambitious spending plans.
_______________________
Solis calls job training ‘essential’
Medill News Service
February 16, 2011
Labor Secretary Hilda Solis emphasized job training programs in an appearance Wednesday before a House panel. She was on Capitol Hill to discuss the administration’s budget plan.
_______________________
Breaking into Business School
Today’s Chicago Woman
October 2010
Women have their sights set on their next area of domination: business school. While the number of women obtaining their Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is still less than those in medical and law school, it’s steadily rising. While women still face specific challenges, getting an MBA may be your best career decision yet.
_______________________
Applying to Graduate School
Today’s Chicago Woman
October 2010
You’ve decided to attend graduate school, but just thinking about the application process makes your head spin. While the process can be time-consuming and confusing, we show you how to handle it with skill and ease.
The Mighty
April 2021
At first, it was hard for me to share my illness with people I wasn’t close yet with. I worried that I would be judged or that they would see me as a burden. I didn’t want to ask for too much. I also wasn’t even sure how they could help.
6 Ways Real People Manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa Armpit Flare-Ups
SELF
March 2021
Here's how real people manage hidradenitis suppurativa armpit flare-ups, which can be painful and difficult to manage.
5 Ways People Manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa Odor From Flare-Ups
SELF
March 2021
It can take a lot of trial and error to manage the hidradenitis suppurativa smell associated with flare-ups
The First Doctor to Take My Pain Seriously Wasn't a Gyno, But a Talk Therapist
HelloGiggles
July 2019
In high school, I had my first pelvic exam after suffering from a series of UTIs. I laid back and put my legs in the stirrups while she put on gloves and brought out the child speculum. Upon insertion, I screamed out so loudly that I’m pretty sure the entire clinic heard me
When career stress worsened my chronic condition, I had to find my identity outside of the entertainment industry
HelloGiggles
April 2019
HG contributor Allyson Byers discusses her chronic skin condition, how the stress of her career worsened the pain, and how she found an identity outside of her job.
Here's Why I Dress Up for Therapy (And Why You Should Try It, Too)
Healthline
February 2019
We dress for all kinds of occasions…why not this? Here’s why what you wear to therapy might matter, in addition to what you talk about.
Dating Apps Helped Me Explore My Sexuality & Find a Place in LA's Lesbian Scene
Elite Daily
February 2019
Dating apps helped me become more comfortable with who I am. I didn’t have to put on a show. I didn’t have to put on a sports uniform and pretend to be someone else. Instead, I could gush about my passion for mental health and food, and match with others who feel similarly.
What We Learned in Therapy
October 2018
My Wellbeing
Allyson Byers, inspired by a great Buzzfeed article about the benefits of therapy, shares with us today an insightful series of quotes from real people going to therapy every week about what they found to be the benefits along the way. You may see a familiar name or two in there.
What’s It Like to Be Suicidal? This Is My Experience, and How I Got Through It
Healthline
November 2018
Here are four ways my suicidal ideation shows up, and how I’ve learned to cope.
Why I'm Glad I Gave My Therapist a Second Chance
My Wellbeing
October 2018
I have something to admit: I really didn’t like my therapist when I first met her. I walked out of our first session with no intention of returning. Therapy is now the highlight of my week, and I am so grateful for this woman who pushes me to be the best I can be.
Antidepressants Have Changed Who I Am—And That's Okay
Ravishly
September 2018
I’m doing all I can to learn how to accept my new identity and this new normal because at the end of the day, my medication is keeping me alive — and that’s the most important thing.
8 Things Everyone Should Know Before Seeing a Therapist
Greatist
August 2018
If you're thinking about starting therapy, learn from my mistakes—here are the top things I wish I'd known before starting therapy.
My Therapist Helped Me Come Out as Queer
HelloGiggles
June 2018
I truly believe that I would have never come out if my therapist hadn’t guided me toward my authentic self. Every day, I am grateful to her for pushing me to admit what I want out of a relationship.
What It's Really Like Going Through a Deep, Dark Depression
Healthline
June 2018
I thought everyone Googled suicide methods from time to time. They don’t. Here’s how I’ve recovered from a dark depression.
Why Going to Pelvic Floor Therapy Transformed My Life
Healthline
June 2018
When my therapist emphasized the fact that I had my first successful pelvic exam, I found myself suddenly crying tears of happiness.
I Have a Rare, Chronic Skin Condition, and I Went to Questionable Lengths Looking for a Cure
SELF Magazine
June 2018
I was desperate to solve my Hidradenitis Suppurativa and ended up spending hundreds of dollars on questionable treatments.
Building a Network Worthy of Being Leaned On
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
February 2018
Why it’s important to build a great network, and how to do so more effectively.
Success in Your Culture
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
December 2017
Everyone perceives culture differently. Learn how to be successful in your company's culture.
What's Culture Got to Do With It?
Marlow (career-coaching startup)
December 2017
There's a lot of talk about company culture. So what is culture, really, and why does it matter?
How I Got This Job: Casting Assistant
The Billfold
November 2017
I moved to LA with no job lined up. Here's how I ended up working in the casting department at Jimmy Kimmel Live.
My Chronic Skin Condition Made Me Quit the Gym
SELF Magazine
August 2017
I fell in love with indoor cycling three years ago, but my Hidradenitis Suppurativa forced me to quit.
"I Have a Rare Disease That Causes Painful Abscesses and Boils on My Skin"
Health.com
August 2017
I recount my struggle with the painful skin condition Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
"You Should Wear This"
Refinery29
July 2017
My favorite sleeveless black dress had been pushed to the back of my closet after being diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
_______________________
Learning to Be Comfortable by Yourself
Medium
July 2017
I try and spend as little time by myself as possible, because when I’m by myself, that’s when the dark thoughts start to come.
_______________________
A Day in My Life During a Hidradenitis Suppurativa Flare-up
The Mighty
May 2017
I hate going to sleep at night, especially when I’ve had one of my “good” days.
_______________________
Living Across the Country Doesn't Mean I Don't Love My Family
Medium
April 2017
Saying goodbye is never easy, no matter how many times you do.
_______________________
Inside Verily: The First 'No Photoshop' Fashion Magazine
Lean In
November 2013
The founders of Verily have pledged not to use photoshop on their pages. They explain why we need more realistic beauty standards.
_______________________
Meet the Woman Behind NYC's 'I'm a Girl' Project
Lean In
October 2013
A new citywide campaign is the first of its kind to tackle body image and girls' self-esteem. The campaign's creator speaks about her inspiration.
________________________
Holiday Events in Chicago, Winter 2011–2012
Time Out Chicago
November 2011
The holiday season is upon us, whether you’re ready or not. Here’s a growing list of holiday happenings—we’re updating it as more events are announced. We’re even adding NYE shindigs at the end of the list.
_______________________
Lakeview is for lovers
Time Out Chicago
October 2011
(PDF Version)
Forget up-and-coming neighborhoods like Logan Square and Bridgeport. If you’re looking for steamy hookups, there’s only one place to live.
_______________________
Fashion’s Night Out 2011
Time Out Chicago
September 2011
(PDF version)
Not sure which shops to visit during Fashion’s Night Out, the nationwide fashion party taking place Thursday 8? Dozens of stores are hosting events that will include fashion shows, cocktails, major discounts and, uh, reality TV stars. Here are our picks of the top parties to attend.
_______________________
Gambling is my life
Time Out Chicago
August 2011
(PDF version)
From dealer to pro poker player to bookie, five locals share tales from inside the betting biz.
_______________________
First lady sees economic benefit in curbing childhood obesity
Medill News Service
March 15, 2011
If ignored it’s an issue that can drastically alter the economic landscape for generations to come.” — first lady Michele Obama, speaking Tuesday to the National League of Cities convention.
_______________________
Gates Foundation, U.S. partner to reduce infant and mother deaths
Medill News Service
March 9, 2011
Every two minutes, a woman dies during childbirth. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the U.S. Agency for International Development announced a new partnership Wednesday to reduce those statistics. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton talked about the plans on Wednesday.
_______________________
As administration pushes for more charter schools, quality remains a concern
Medill News Service
March 7, 2011
If the administration has its way, more charter schools will open across the country as part of President Barack Obama’s plan to offer more choice in public education. Meet the students, parents and educators on the front lines of the fight to open — and close — charter schools.
_______________________
One school believes ‘inspired’ teachers are the answer
Medill News Service
March 7, 2011
The Inspired Teaching School isn’t your typical charter school. It doesn’t offer a groundbreaking educational experience and its founders don’t necessarily believe charter schools are the answer to improving education.
_______________________
Senators grill Duncan on spending
Medill News Service
March 1, 2011
Education Secretary Arne Duncan on Tuesday defended the administration’s plan to increase spending on education by 11 percent in its budget proposal for next year. But he was pressed hard by Republicans, who say that the country does not have the money to support the ambitious spending plans.
_______________________
Solis calls job training ‘essential’
Medill News Service
February 16, 2011
Labor Secretary Hilda Solis emphasized job training programs in an appearance Wednesday before a House panel. She was on Capitol Hill to discuss the administration’s budget plan.
_______________________
Breaking into Business School
Today’s Chicago Woman
October 2010
Women have their sights set on their next area of domination: business school. While the number of women obtaining their Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is still less than those in medical and law school, it’s steadily rising. While women still face specific challenges, getting an MBA may be your best career decision yet.
_______________________
Applying to Graduate School
Today’s Chicago Woman
October 2010
You’ve decided to attend graduate school, but just thinking about the application process makes your head spin. While the process can be time-consuming and confusing, we show you how to handle it with skill and ease.