From the heart of North Africa, Sarah Bendiff shares her journey with myasthenia gravis. Diagnosed in 2019 after 13 years of searching for answers, she had to step away from her physics studies as her body resisted treatments. The digital opportunities that arose during the COVID-19 crisis in Algeria allowed Sarah to rebuild. Through digital marketing and content creation, she found strength and resilience, channeling her creativity to thrive in a remote, connected world.
Note: This column was updated July 31, 2025, to clarify that the author fears temporary paralysis caused by severe muscle weakness, as opposed to a permanent paralysis. Yesterday, my brain and body collapsed because…
Read more
When I was a kid, still waiting for my diagnosis, I remember overhearing doctors say, “It might be an orphan disease,” “It could be rare,” “This might be a special condition.” At that time,…
Here we are again: I have new symptoms. And no, I am not excited about seeing more doctors. After spending 10 years searching for a diagnosis before finally finding out I have…
Whether it’s a work meeting, family gathering, or friendly meetup, I always feel the need to mention that I might have to cancel due to my chronic illness. But most people don’t seem to…
For the longest time, I thought the biggest obstacle to driving would be my foot pain. I never considered that myasthenia gravis (MG) would affect my ability to drive. My foot pain —…
Like many others, being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis was a turning point in my life. Before my diagnosis, school sports were a nightmare. Running, basketball, and other…
I often talk about strength and resilience because I feel a deep need to share these traits with others who are navigating chronic illnesses or invisible disabilities. Motivating and inspiring others is a blessing…
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.
Traveling was one of my biggest fears after my myasthenia gravis diagnosis in 2019. If I got tired at home easily, what would navigating an airport and exploring a bustling city feel like?…
I must be transparent with you from the start: I’m not writing this because my cat isn’t cuddly and doesn’t love me the way I love her. I’d like you all to meet Philotte,…
The day I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG), the doctors briefed me on the essentials: symptoms, treatment plans, and what to expect from life with a chronic illness. But what no one…
My bitter and best friend myasthenia gravis (MG) takes up a lot of space in my life: in my relationships, my daily routine, and my career choice. I’ve also realized that it’s completely…
The first thing I did when I started college was to search for clubs and associations where I could volunteer. Back then, I believed that even if I wasn’t wealthy, I had my health…
Get regular updates to your inbox.
