In this deeply emotional and eye-opening episode of Medical Detectives, we sit down with Rita, whose medical mystery spanned nearly a decade of pain, misdiagnosis, and dismissal. From being a young mother and nurse with a sudden onset of terrifying symptoms to being told she just needed candy or mental health care, Rita’s story highlights the devastating impact of medical gaslighting, sexism in healthcare, and systemic failures—particularly within the military medical system. Through years of relentless symptoms and self-doubt, Rita finally receives a diagnosis that validates everything she’s endured.

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