#NORDSummit – Major Issues on Table for Rare Disease Patients in US as Midterm Elections Approach

Hope Is Tenacious in Our Journey with Myasthenia Gravis

Hope is an empowering word with an ambiguous interpretation. For each person, hope might look just a little different, but its crucial need in our lives remains integral.  When I was first diagnosed, I thought of myasthenia gravis and the emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual journey…

Presence of Anti-LRP4 Antibodies in Blood May Be Common to Myasthenia Gravis and ALS, Case Study Suggests

Myasthenia gravis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may share common underlying cellular mechanisms mediated by anti-LRP4 antibodies, a rare case report into both diseases being diagnosed in an elderly patient suggests. The study, “Late-onset Myasthenia Gravis Accompanied by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with Antibodies against the Acetylcholine…

Finding Happiness in the Midst of Sickness

This past weekend, I attended my doctor’s “special patient day,” a morning event with tea, snacks, and entertainment by local musician Joshua na die Reën. The staff from my doctor’s office was there, including the nurses who take care of me during day treatments and chemotherapy, administrative staff, and the women who assist…

When Help Is Delayed

The diagnostic process and the journey to correct a disease by effective treatment can seem linear on paper. The reality rarely matches up. In that reality, many with myasthenia gravis become aquatinted with emotional and mental fatigue, the uncertainty of where to place trust, and the weariness of…

The Joy of Being Alive

Like most chronically ill people, I often get the line, “I don’t know how you do it.” To be completely honest, nor do I. I just do exactly as healthy people do. I wake up, get up, survive, and go to bed. On some days, I have an emotional breakdown in…

Finding the Right Doctor Is Key to Good Long-term Care

Choosing your healthcare provider can be as important and daunting a challenge as finding your life partner. You need someone who will advocate for you and who has your best interests at heart. You need someone who is passionate about what they do and who wants to make a difference.