Years ago, I met a mom of a child with a rare disease who matter-of-factly shared her story, which included as many twists and close calls as any blockbuster summer movie. I marveled at her heroism and she said no, she rejects that description. “I’m not a hero,” she insisted. “I’m a typical mom. You […]
Rare Disease
A helping hand, just in time
Some years ago a few colleagues and I got stuck at Logan Airport and we started telling stories to pass the time. One tale has come back to me over and over again, particularly as I cared for my dad during his last year of life, because it reminded me to be open to the possibility […]
Update: A Seat at the Table
Last November I attended FAREcon, an annual event devoted to food allergy research and education. I published my notes in a long, deep-dive post that included one short section on pending litigation (below). I’m thrilled to report a positive update: “A federal appeals court Friday ruled against the tavern that refused to let the child […]
Rare but not alone
Ashley Eakin, a filmmaker, is being brave and showing her real self online. She does it on behalf of the kids who share her rare condition so they can see themselves, in her image — a beautiful example of how the internet can be a bridge to hope and inclusion. Watch: When she mentions in […]
Rare Disease Day 2019
Today is Rare Disease Day, when we lift up the stories of the 300 million people who live with more than 6,000 rare conditions. This year’s theme focuses on bridging health and social care, alleviating the heavy burden on people who coordinate medical, social, and support services for themselves and their loved ones. The National […]
A deep dive into food allergy research and education
Longtime followers of this blog know I believe in the power of peers, particularly among people living with rare conditions, and may also know that I am a food-allergy mom. This past weekend I had the chance to attend the annual conference for my rare community, FAREcon, and drink from the peer advice well. Warning: This […]
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