You, Me and MD – a Column by Leah Leilani

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.

November 24, 2020November 20, 2020

Looking at Holiday Self-isolation in a Positive Light

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

November 10, 2020November 6, 2020

Saying Goodbye to Eye Strain, Thanks to Blue-light Glasses

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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, ... Read more

October 20, 2020October 16, 2020

The 4 Categories of Tiredness

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

October 6, 2020October 2, 2020

Living for Myself While Hoping for the Right Person

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

August 25, 2020August 21, 2020

The Battle Against Ableism Is Tiring, but I Won’t Give Up

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

August 11, 2020August 10, 2020

I’m Sleeping Comfortably Now, Thanks to a New Mattress

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

August 4, 2020July 30, 2020

The Angels Who’ve Profoundly Affected My Life

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

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 ... Read more

July 14, 2020July 10, 2020

Being Independent Within My Capabilities

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

I often associate independence with adulthood and coming-of-age. The liberation of a teenager learning to drive a car or a student bidding farewell to their childhood home as they ... Read more

June 23, 2020June 19, 2020

Dating in the Era of Coronavirus

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

It is undeniable that the coronavirus pandemic has affected many aspects of life. Along with establishing new norms for work, school, and social interaction, the pandemic has forced romantic ... Read more

June 9, 2020June 5, 2020

Learning to Accept My Mental Illness Through Creativity

columns, You, Me and MD - a Column by Leah Leilani

Positivity is a characteristic that I naturally possess. I seldom struggle to find the bright side of situations. Although this attribute has saved me innumerous times from acquiring a ... Read more