Can living with myasthenia gravis have benefits?

Some people think disabilities are just excuses and free-pass cards that come with countless advantages. After a recent experience, I’ve realized they might be right sometimes — but not in the way they think.

Before you think I’m crazy, let me explain. I’m not talking about financial aid or priority services. I’m talking about the deep connection I’ve developed with my body and the resilience I’ve gained over time.

The fall that taught me more

Last month, I had a major fall down the stairs. As I write this column from my recovery bed, I can assure you that no muscle injury is welcome in a body already grappling with myasthenia gravis (MG). My family and friends were instantly worried, fearing broken bones, but I was certain I didn’t need to rush to the emergency room. My pain wasn’t in the bones; it was somewhere else.

I felt an overwhelming need to rest, so I took three days off, lying on my stomach because of the excruciating back pain. When the time felt right, I decided to visit a doctor to ensure nothing serious was going on.

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After what felt like an eternity waiting for my X-ray results, they confirmed my expectations. My pain wasn’t related to a broken bone, but to a muscle sprain from my fall. I appreciated the concern of my loved ones, but the problem turned out to be just as I’d assumed.

There was a surprise from the X-rays, however: a new, unexpected health issue (which may be one of my specialties). I have a spinal malformation from birth that often causes others chronic pain. My doctor demonstrated it with a miniature spine model. But in my case, thankfully, it seems my body adapted to it at an early age; I’d never felt back pain before my fall. And with some luck and surveillance, I shouldn’t have any pain there in the future — at least, not from my malformation or the fall.

I’m confident that if anyone else were in my shoes, they would’ve been more concerned. They might’ve had endless questions about the next steps or possible treatments. But the only thing that mattered to me was that I knew my body.

I know my body better than anyone else, in fact. My appointments usually take only five minutes because I can pinpoint exactly where the problem is and what might be causing it. That’s not unique to me; many of my friends with invisible disabilities say the same thing.

And it’s an advantage that we know our bodies so well. In emergencies, we’re often better equipped to avoid unnecessary protocols or errors in care. We’ve spent years suffering, learning, and becoming experts in our conditions. That resilience makes us bulletproof in a way.

Gratitude for resilience

I’m grateful for this resilience. Living with MG has trained me to stay calm in the face of any diagnosis. I no longer react with fear or panic because I’ve learned to accept that no one has an indestructible body.

MG, and the challenges it brings, have tempered my reactions and taught me to embrace illness as a part of life. And that’s OK.

Note: Myasthenia Gravis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Myasthenia Gravis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to myasthenia gravis.