chronic illness mindset – Tate Basildon

When Faith, Sarcoidosis, and a Curious Chef Collide

Growing up Catholic leaves you with a spiritual starter pack—some guilt, a few hymns you’ll never forget, and a reflex to question everything, especially when chronic illness enters the chat. Living with sarcoidosis only sharpened those questions, but not in the “Why me?” way people expect. More like, “Okay universe, what lesson are you clearly dying to teach me this time?” The real story sits somewhere between faith, frustration, and a chef who refuses to stop asking uncomfortable questions…

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Stop Saying You’re Allergic to Bees (When You’re Really Just Terrified of Nature)

Ever wonder why everyone suddenly claims they’re “allergic to bees”? In this cheeky yet heartfelt take from a chef living with chronic illness, I explore what our bee phobia really says about fear, faith, and city folks who panic at pollen. Spoiler: the bees aren’t the problem.

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Silence, Sass, and Self-Control: How I Learned Not to Clap Back at Every Rude Receptionist

Tired of rude medical staff and customer service that feels more like combat? As a private chef living with sarcoidosis and heart failure, I’ve learned that silence and self-control—not clapbacks—are my best defense against everyday negativity. Here’s how staying calm transformed my life, my work, and even landed me a management job.