This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Kristina Spring, who shares her deeply personal journey through illness, uncertainty, and transformation during midlife. Hosted by Andrea Rathborne and Co-Hosted/ Produced by Krista Gruen.
Kristina recounts her experience with a complex medical journey that began in France with a tick bite in 2012, leading to Lyme disease and, years later, a series of neurological symptoms and ambiguous diagnoses, including a presumed brain tumor. She describes the emotional toll of living with uncertainty, the impact on her family, and the isolation that came from trying to make others understand her experience.
A turning point comes when Kristina connects with two others, Emily and Kevin, who are facing similar health challenges. Together, they form a support group called "The Brain Buds," which becomes a source of empathy, humor, and mutual inspiration. Through this new community, Kristina learns to release the pressure on her immediate circle of family and friends to find strength in shared understanding.
The conversation explores themes of resilience, the importance of community, and the ripple effects of personal struggles on loved ones. Kristina reflects on how her journey has shaped her empathy and gratitude, and how, despite the challenges, she has found ways to thrive and reclaim joy in her life.
The episode closes with a message about the power of connection, the value of finding "your people," and the hope that sharing stories can help others feel less alone in their own journeys.
Bio
Kristina Spring is a 53-year-old East Van resident who has spent the past thirty years working as a youth worker, dedicating her career to supporting young people and their communities. Four years ago, she was diagnosed with Gliomatosis, a rare brain cancer which has a typical prognosis of just eighteen months. Despite the odds, Kristina continues to live fully, alongside her partner of 29 years, her two adult children close by, and her beloved dogs.
Kristina isn’t telling her story to raise awareness for a campaign, launch a movement, or rally followers online. There are no hashtags to click, no organizations to join. She speaks up because stories matter. Community matters. And sometimes what shifts the course of a life isn’t the many, but the few.
Now, as a woman in midlife reflecting on her own journey of catalyst and transformation, Kristina feels called to share her story with Half Betty and its listeners. In her words and experiences, she hopes others may find a spark of connection, comfort, or relatability — a reminder that living the best life we can, for ourselves and for others, is its own quiet act of courage.
Kristina’s Five Words
impatient, impulsive, bratty, curious, creative, others have said - purposeful and intentional
Sponsor Information
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Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne
Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen
Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen
Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke
Episode sponsors: LOBA and Voes and Company