Cheers to a year of realistic living with myasthenia gravis

As we head into the new year, I’ve been thinking deeply about what I want for our myasthenia gravis (MG) community. And I don’t mean the usual future-focused, self-reflecting resolutions with the push to do more or become more.

After all, we don’t need extra expectations added to a life that already demands so much from our energy, time, and health.

What we need is something that truly fits the lived reality of MG.

Reconcile resolutions with chronic illness

In the chronic illness community, many people gravitate toward “anti-resolutions.” It’s a way of approaching the start of the year without pressure to push harder and strive for more.

It’s a mindset of redefining achievements by honoring our health and allowing space for compassion, rest, and realistic limits.

Begin with a gentler approach to defining inner growth. This may take a little work to get used to:

• slowing down before (rather than after) your muscles completely tire and fatigue sets in
• releasing frustration from feeling victimized by MG symptoms and limitations
• allowing yourself to ask for help sooner
• recognizing that comparison doesn’t help when everyone’s body responds differently

Softening expectations for ourselves does not mean you’re allowing MG to be in control. It is a practical response to a chronic condition that changes from day to day.

Address issues that complicate MG care

A practical intention for the new year is to identify and address the avoidable healthcare-related obstacles that consistently create stress in our lives.

Perhaps you’ve been wanting to switch MG specialists — take the leap by booking an appointment. Worried that you’re unprepared for an MG emergency? Start making a plan. If you feel like you’re spending too much time or energy getting labs and tests, ask the clinic to help you by scheduling them on the same day.

These are just some small steps that can minimize chaos in situations that can already be overwhelming.

Set higher expectations for doctors and clinics

Raise your bar for the level of care you receive from MG providers.

Take the lead by:

• being more confident in speaking up
• asking doctors about their experience with MG
• requesting thorough explanations
• setting up regular treatment plan discussions
• seeking referrals when needed
• finding a different provider if necessary

Establishing healthy boundaries with our healthcare providers may prevent us from repeatedly facing obstacles and unknowns. And clearer expectations and more collaboration can relieve the emotional strain that has weighed us down for too long.

Reduce potential insurance denials

MG care is expensive, unpredictable, and dependent on coverage that can change unexpectedly. Learning how to better navigate insurance may reduce stress.

To help you feel more in control:

• confirm coverage before doctor visits
• get prior authorizations
• check medication coverage
• request thorough explanations of copays
• appeal denials
• ask about disability options

Do what you can to protect access to treatments and prevent the last-minute panic that insurance issues can often cause.

Choose boundaries that safeguard your energy

Many people with MG spend years apologizing for their limitations, even when those limits protect their well-being.

A meaningful resolution this year is to establish boundaries without guilt. Don’t feel bad about saying no. Let others know when plans don’t align with what your symptoms allow, even when it’s a last-minute change.

These are not acts of weakness. And they don’t make us a burden. They are choices that reduce physical demand, emotional overwhelm, and unnecessary flare-ups.

Manifest a year that feels achievable

Resolutions are meant to improve life. With MG, it starts with reducing complexity.

Remove comparison pressure. Rethink how to restore and maintain energy. Challenge systems that unnecessarily drain us. And strengthen your MG support networks.

A successful year doesn’t come from doing more than before. It’s defined by aligning with your needs at this time.

There is no one way to do this, especially when you can’t predict what is ahead.

So perhaps your most meaningful January resolution is to give yourself permission to make your life easier wherever, whenever, and however you can.