Columns

Summer vacation in the Midwest typically begins in mid-May, and kids return to school by mid-August. Here in Nebraska, that puts us halfway through summer break already. Like most moms, I’m feeling a mix of emotions: grief as I anticipate the end of these few precious weeks home with my…

Summer is a great time to be outside, travel, attend neighborhood gatherings, and spend time with people you love. But those of us who live our adult lives with chronic illness face challenges in this season, as well as year-round. Still, there are many ways for us to enjoy…

Late afternoon sunlight drifts into the house, brightening the blue paint on the walls. The room feels cheery and welcoming. Wicker baskets hold soft blankets, pillows cushion the couch, and dogs are sleeping on the rugs. I love walking into this room, and every room, in my home, which I…

I’m an early riser. As I mentioned in a past column, I like to wake up early, get dressed, make coffee, and start the day with some quiet prayer and devotion time. However, I’m also a very sound sleeper, with some help from melatonin, sleep medication, and a comfy…

Here in the Midwest, June brings warmer temperatures. I live in Nebraska, where warmer weather is welcome after bitterly cold winters and brisk, windy springs. It’s also necessary for the crops growing in the large fields that line most of the highways. I wait all spring for the temperature to…

Living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has taught me countless lessons, especially the power of connection, creativity, and celebrating every form of love. Last Saturday, I attended the 11th annual concert of The Purple Symphony with my girlfriend, Amanda, and my new caregiver, Julie. Titled “Perhaps, It’s Love,”…

I’m a mother of seven and a caregiver to the three of my sons who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). My oldest daughter, Lexi, 24, lives a few hours away with her husband. I live in rural Nebraska with my husband, Jason, and our six youngest children: Max, 19;…

I’m between two anniversaries. Today is the 36th anniversary of the collision I had with a drunk driver that cost me my eyesight and almost cost me my life. Saturday will be my 45th wedding anniversary. The car crash happened on the evening of June 11, 1989. I was returning…

I believe that many adults living with rare diseases can and do become experts in their conditions, sometimes more so than healthcare professionals. With respect to my own journey with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, this point became particularly clear when I had a near-death experience in early 2024. Several types…

When I think about my son Charlie, I always remember my pregnancy with him. I’d taken a home test and knew I was pregnant, but when I called to make an appointment with my doctor to confirm the good news, I scheduled an appointment for my son Max, who was…