Columns

I have limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2L (LGMD2L). My previous column, “I Live Creatively to Power Past Obstacles,” discussed how I live with my limitations. For me, the biggest challenge is navigating the world outside my home. But dealing with our disjointed healthcare system is also an issue.

For several years, I’ve been feeling nauseated in the mornings after I eat breakfast. Whatever food item occupies my plate that morning — be it a chocolate chip muffin with a few strawberries or an apple with a side of yogurt — inevitably upsets my stomach. Fruits of any kind…

I believe that my physical limitations heighten my observational skills and journalistic Spidey sense. Throughout my life, I’ve realized that I notice and remember the finer details that my physically-abled friends do not.  I read license plates to figure out how old a car is…

Last Wednesday, July 24, was the four-year anniversary of the day I got my first and only tattoo. One month earlier, I had turned 18 and graduated from high school. I was ready for a tattoo. (Courtesy of Leah Leilani) I wasn’t concerned about the needle, as…

I have a lot going on in my life right now, and I don’t get enough time to rest. I’m transitioning to independent living, keeping track of my income while balancing my medical expenses, and completing an internship at The Washington Post while…

Writing a weekly column has been enjoyable. It has been great to examine a variety of issues that are important to the muscular dystrophy community. It also provides a way for people to share ideas. I’ve done a dozen columns so far, and this is my lucky 13. This…

Last year, I wrote about the unfortunate side effects of the medication Lyrica (pregabalin), which I’ve been taking for my fibromyalgia pain. For a while now, I’ve considered the option of switching out my medication for medical marijuana.  I’m familiar with the use of cannabis for therapeutic…

I didn’t know many kids with Duchenne muscular dystrophy growing up. Everyone around me was physically able; I was the only one who couldn’t keep up. Now, as I’ve gotten older, I understand the importance of finding friends who have the same disease. When I meet someone…

In the disability community, which is as diverse and broad as any other, there is a debate over terminology. I have seen this play out on my Twitter account and in other places. I have also seen some very strong feelings on all sides. The muscular dystrophy community…

I discovered something different about Washington, D.C. when I moved there for the summer: wheelchair-accessible Ubers are everywhere. Los Angeles, where I come from, has a dearth of accessible Ubers. Having the ability to take an Uber with my power chair opens up a…