Leah is a Southern California-based patient writer. She's been an active member of the muscular dystrophy community since her regional ambassadorship with the MDA beginning at the age of 10 after her diagnosis of a rare neuromuscular disease, mitochondrial myopathy (Mito). Leah advocates for those with disabilities and promotes an understanding of her condition by evoking a positive outlook upon the obstacles she faces. Leah’s work doesn’t just stop at her column: she also doubles as a co-moderator on the MD News Forums. Away from her jobs, Leah is known among family and friends for her artistic creativity and outgoing personality.Dear readers, This will be my last column for Muscular Dystrophy News. I want to thank you for following along with “You, Me, and MD” and for supporting me. You are the reason I write, and I hope I have made some difference in your…
When I’m deep in thought, reflecting on my life, I shudder to think who and where I’d be without the support of my family and friends. Whether I need a shoulder to lean on or simply a sounding board for my own jumbled thoughts, I can trust that…
This year has been full of seemingly insurmountable struggles for everyone. As we resolved one hardship, another seemed to suddenly appear, creating an endless cycle that rocked our mental stability. I include myself in this. So, it’s no wonder why most of us are eager to end this…
The holidays are notorious for being one of the most hectic times of the year. People jump at the opportunity to score the best deals, and they sprint to grab the last toy on the shelf. Each year, as my mom decorates the Christmas tree…
Technology is an essential tool I use both in my social life and to be more productive at work. While it can make certain things I struggle with easier, it also has its ups and downs, just like everything in life. My daytime hours are spent staring at…
Those of us with invisible chronic illnesses master the art of mindfulness for our bodies. Since our symptoms show little signs of existence, we must work hard to translate our body’s hidden language of fatigue. Neglecting this skill could impede receiving the medical help we so desperately need.
I have clear memories of listening to my fourth-grade friends talk about what their “boyfriends” got them for Valentine’s Day, or whispering between one another during class about who liked whom. My hope of one day having a stereotypical teenage romance carried into high school, but dwindled as…
A few unfortunate circumstances recently have left me mentally exhausted by the endless recurrence of ableism. It feels as though ableism lurks around every corner, waiting for the opportune moment to rain on my sunshiny parade. Arming myself with an advocate seems necessary for braving the outside…
Most mitochondrial myopathy patients rely on sleep as therapy for our disease. Yes, rest can be effective at regenerating lost energy, but there’s nothing comparable to a restful night’s sleep or a deep nap. Without proper sleep, our bodies can rapidly deteriorate, resulting in…
Living with a disability often means I’m exposed to people’s true colors. This can be both positive and negative. My disease has familiarized me with the cold shoulders of family members and the condescension of doctors, but it has also strengthened my gratitude for the people in my…
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