Columns

When I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG) in 2020, I decided to find out all I could about the disease. I love to read, so I started with the written word. I got ahold of every book or article I could find and was hit with all…

It was 11:50 p.m. Wednesday night, and I was just getting ready to head up to bed after a long, frustrating day at the office. Meetings that ran late and frustrating tech issues were among the woes that led me to this point. Yet as I was unplugging for…

I’ve always considered myself a patient man. One doesn’t succeed as a teacher without some degree of the trait. But the past four weeks have shown me that life with myasthenia gravis (MG) requires a level of patience I never thought I could achieve. I’ve learned that challenges…

Last week, I was asked to respond to “Tell me about yourself” as it related to my disabilities and the help I needed around the house. The request came during an intake meeting to have an outside caregiving company come in to help my husband and me. Even though I…

I live in a little community in northwestern Wisconsin that boasts fewer than 1,000 year-round residents. This fluctuates greatly during the winter and summer tourist seasons. I had concerns about living in such a rural area when my husband and I decided to move from Maine…

Columnist Shawna Barnes discusses air hunger with MG, its causes, how it differs from other shortness of breath, and strategies for managing this symptom.

Would you, could you, on the floor? I could not, would not, on the floor. I will not do it before four. I will not do it in the chair. I simply cannot on a dare … No, I’m not taking a beloved childhood story about ham and eggs that…

Take away any religious connections, and the period from the end of November through the start of January is still the most festive time of the year. Decorating our homes, hosting and attending holiday gatherings, and giving gifts are some activities that make the season enjoyable. But they can also…

Fear. Whether it stems from uncertainty over myasthenia gravis (MG), a lack of support from friends and family, the risk of losing an occupation or vocation, or possible disease flare-ups, living with fear seems to be common in our community, regardless of MG type or severity. And…

Every December, I perform a painful yet cathartic ritual: I find a quiet time free of intrusions and, with a glass of killer eggnog, sit down to listen to the musical “Les Misérables.” While doing so, I’ll recall events that occurred more than 30 years ago, which brings on…