Newly Diagnosed: You Are Not Alone on Your Journey

At the dawn of her son’s LAMA2 diagnosis, columnist Prudence Jones felt alone. Soon, though, she found a community of people who “get it.” She urges others at the beginning of their journey or those who have been to scared to reach out to find their own community.

Columnist Andy Rusch has become the hero of his own story, where he has confronted his fears and faced down the dragon known as “Becker.” His is a tale of acceptance and resilience, and he encourages others to feel empowered to be heroes in their own stories as well.

Columnist Hawken Miller says parents of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy are the real warriors and he doesn’t want them to forget it. He encourages them to keep up the fight for their children.

Hawken writes that despite the unpredictability of living with Duchenne, he thrives by using his talents. He encourages others in the disabled community to take charge of one part of their future and use their talents to thrive.

Columnist Ralph Yaniz encourages everyone to be their own advocate — to ask questions, challenge their doctors, and be part of the solution. He suggests going through treatments and writing down a few questions the night before each appointment to be prepared.

Columnist Leah Leilani emphasizes the importance of doctors with the determination to understand diagnoses and do everything they can to help with urgent needs. She believes patients shouldn’t have to convince others that they are in need of help.