I’ve learned that I have my best days when I maintain an optimistic, positive outlook. Some days the challenges of life with myasthenia gravis (MG) make such an outlook almost impossible. Emphasis on almost. I’ve developed a coping mechanism that I use when I struggle through such days,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate the past year’s blessings. It’s also a time to express gratitude for the people and things that make our lives meaningful and joyful. However, for some people, Thanksgiving can be a difficult and painful occasion. Those with chronic illnesses may feel isolated, depressed, or…
My earliest school memories revolve around reading class. I couldn’t wait until after lunch, when we’d get out our books and take turns reading. I loved Dick and Jane, Sally, Mother, Father, and of course, Spot. I began a love affair with the written word that continues to grow…
In the novel “Till We Have Faces,” C.S. Lewis wrote, “Don’t you think the things people are most ashamed of are the things they can’t help?” These words resonated with me as I began to understand how shame was a silent and unwelcome part of my myasthenia…
If you grew up in New England, you’ve most likely heard about a fictitious exchange between a tourist in need of directions and a reticent Mainer. When asked the best route to the tourist’s destination, the Mainer replied, “You can’t get there from here.” What an absurd response! However, the…
I’ve had epilepsy since I was 9 years old. Because of this, I’ve spent part of my life around hospitals and doctors’ offices. I became aware of the pitfalls that can arise in patient care, and how they can be avoided. I learned early in life the importance of patient…
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