Episode 28 Overview, Guest Bio & Additional Resources
Jeremie Saunders on Living with Cystic Fibrosis, Storytelling, and Breaking Health Stigma
In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Jeremy Saunders, Canadian actor, podcaster, and public speaker, to explore what it truly means to live with cystic fibrosis and how he has used storytelling, humor, and vulnerability to break health stigma.
Jeremy shares what day-to-day life with CF looks like, including managing complex treatments, navigating travel, and balancing physical and mental health. We talk about how new medications like Trikafta have changed the landscape of CF care, while also acknowledging the realities that many people still face. Jeremy also discusses his “expiry date” mindset, embracing mortality, and choosing to live fully despite uncertainty.
We dive into the origins and evolution of Sick Boy, the role of humor in serious conversations, and why authentic, sometimes uncomfortable dialogue is essential for building understanding and community. Jeremy also reflects on receiving the Meritorious Service Medal, his work with Breathless, and the projects he continues to pursue to raise awareness and support others living with chronic illness.
This episode offers honest perspective for anyone living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or interested in how storytelling and openness can change the way we talk about health.
Breaking Health Stigma Through Storytelling and Lived Experience
Jeremie Saunders is a Canadian actor, podcaster, and public speaker living with cystic fibrosis who has become a leading voice in breaking down stigma around chronic illness. As a co-creator of the podcast Sick Boy and host of Breathless, Jeremie uses honest storytelling, humor, and vulnerability to change how people talk about health, disability, and mortality. Through his work, he helps audiences better understand what living with cystic fibrosis actually involves, from daily treatments and travel considerations to the mental and emotional realities that often go unseen.
Embracing Mortality, Intention, and Honest Conversation
Jeremie’s mission goes beyond awareness. He challenges people to rethink how they view illness, risk, and time by embracing what he calls an “expiry date” mindset. Rather than living in fear, Jeremie encourages living with intention, openness, and curiosity. By blending humor with deeply real conversations, he creates space for authenticity, connection, and hope, while reminding us that medical advances like new CF therapies are meaningful but not universal. His work centers on one powerful idea: that honest conversations save lives, reduce isolation, and help people feel less alone in their experience.