Athena Sanchez graduates from Northern Arizona University. (Courtesy of Athena Sanchez) This is Athena Sanchez’s story: Living with myasthenia gravis (MG) is like constantly fighting a battle, and my body doesn’t always show up. I was diagnosed when I was just 18, barely out of high…
Throughout June, Myasthenia Gravis News is recognizing Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month with a variety of stories that represent different perspectives on life with myasthenia gravis that we hope help to inspire and empower our readers. These stories highlight some of the unique challenges of living with myasthenia gravis, as well as stories of hope, inspiration, and other topics that help to generate awareness among the myasthenia gravis community. Follow along with the series here or visit us on Facebook, Instagram, or X using the hashtag #MGSpotlight.
Stefanie Shea and her husband, Dave Akers, attend a recent concert. Shea is in her power wheelchair, which enables her to leave the house and participate. (Courtesy of Stefanie Shea) This is Stefanie Shea’s story: I’m a musician, artist, advocate, and nerd who has lived with myasthenia gravis…
Jennifer Crow, who lives with MG, says she no longer silences herself. (Courtesy of Jennifer Crow) This is Jennifer Crow’s story: When I was first diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG), I thought having a name for my condition would unlock care and put me on the path to…
Mohammed Hanafi and Sarah Bendiff, seen here at a shooting range in Algeria, where they live, have together learned how to adapt to life with MG. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Bendiff) Note: Mohammed Hanafi’s girlfriend Sarah Bendiff is a Myasthenia Gravis News columnist who writes about her journey…
Yvette Bernal, left, with her daughter Eliza Roman as Eliza prepares to graduate high school. (Photo courtesy of Yvette Bernal) This is Yvette Bernal’s story: During my senior year of high school, I found out I was pregnant with a girl. I promised myself I was going to work…
Charlotte Laycock receives a plasma exchange to help control her myasthenia gravis. (Photos courtesy of Charlotte Laycock) This is Charlotte Laycock’s story: Being diagnosed with generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) in my early 30s was something I never expected. At the time, I was living a fast-paced single life…
Wayne Seward was diagnosed with generalized myasthenia gravis in 2024. (Courtesy of Wayne Seward) This is Wayne Seward’s story: I was officially diagnosed with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in February 2024. However, my journey began a few years earlier with four symptoms: chronic fatigue, shortness of breath…
Joe Enders and his daughter, Jodi, smile at a Florida spring two months after her thymectomy surgery. (Courtesy of Joe Enders) This is Joe Enders’ story: When our daughter was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG), everything changed overnight. Jodi was in crisis and could barely speak,…
Barry Stalker works out at the gym, his favorite place to challenge himself mentally and physically. (Courtesy of Barry Stalker) This is Barry Stalker’s story: I was always an active teenager. I played a variety of sports in school, which led me to discover the gym and, eventually, competitive…
Jodi Enders reflects on her favorite place for creative inspiration and relaxation: the Everglades in Florida. (Courtesy of Jodi Enders) This is Jodi Enders’ story: I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG) just before the final semester of my undergraduate degree in anthropology, with an emphasis on…
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