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The phrase “fake it till you make it” is meant to encourage self-confidence. During many tough moments in my life, like learning to walk again, I’ve relied on this phrase. There are moments when I don’t feel good, but I’ll fake it and say I feel fine. Sometimes saying how…

August 2017 was a busy and exciting time for our family. My youngest daughter, Bella, and I had just spent the weekend helping my oldest daughter move into her dorm room and begin her freshman year of college; my son had just begun his freshman year of high school; Bella…

Words can hurt, especially labels. We can deny a label all we want, but terms like “disabled” will close many doors. What does it mean to be disabled, though? I find the term offensive because it implies I’m not capable, which is far from the truth. Do I live with…

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. The days are longer, the adventures seem endless, and the smell of barbecue, flowers, and freshly cut grass fill the air. However, high temperatures during the summer, especially in tropical climates, can pose a challenge for those with neuromyelitis…

I love beach vacations. I put my phone and laptop away, grab a good book, and head out into the sun. But the sun is not to be messed with, especially for an immune-suppressed patient. Many medications can cause sun sensitivity, among other challenges. According to the U.S. Department…

For nearly two and a half years, I avoided catching the COVID-19 virus. When I finally ventured away from my home, I was infected. Weeks later, I’m still feeling the effects. My daughter, Sophie, was recently given an opportunity to represent Canada at a global dance competition in Portugal.

Trying something new will always intimidate me. While my head might feel prepared, my body doesn’t always cooperate. This year my husband and I agreed to take in a homestay teenager who is studying dance at the same studio as our young daughter, Sophie. Sydney, our 15-year-old homestay daughter, is…

Caring for our mental health and pursuing wellness require a lifetime commitment and hard work. It’s sometimes easier said than done, but taking a moment to yourself to reflect on the day, or on a feeling or emotion, can do wonders for your mental health, especially when living with chronic…

During my transverse myelitis attack in 2009, I lost feeling and control in the lower half of my body. My medical team determined that I needed a spinal tap to reduce the fluid buildup. The procedure was done right in my hospital room, and the only condition was that…

I know it’s not a popular choice, but I enjoy sweet and tart zinfandel. I like the delightful pink color, and rosé is a snobby word that’s fun to say. Zinfandels should be enjoyed in the warm summer months, and are accompanied best by seafood. Maybe it’s just the…