Thank you, readers, for reminding me of the power of community

Hello, friends.

It’s long overdue that I thank you — my loyal readers and those who have recently joined me — for allowing me to share my neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) journey with you.

Every time I sit down to write, I am reminded that this space — our space — has become something truly special. It’s not just words on a screen; it’s a conversation, a connection, and a community built on support, understanding, and shared experiences.

Why I write

When I was diagnosed with NMOSD, I immediately went to the internet for answers. So did my family. I’ll never forget the fear in my mother-in-law’s eyes when she read one article that said NMOSD patients had an average life expectancy of just five years after their initial attack. I refused to accept that as my fate, and I never wanted anyone else with NMOSD to feel the same dread.

At a medical conference, I met two incredible NMOSD patients. Over sushi, we decided to create NMODiaries, a vlog and blog where we documented our lives — not just our struggles, but the moments that proved we could live fully. We posted videos of our travels, our kitchen experiments, and even our skiing and snowboarding adventures — our feet numb and aching from NMOSD, but still defying expectations. We shared our ups and downs, including the deeply personal journey of in vitro fertilization.

What we never anticipated was the impact NMODiaries would have on others. Patients approached us at conferences, telling us they shared our site with their families as proof that they, too, could be OK. Though NMODiaries has ended, I am grateful to continue writing for Neuromyelitis News, carrying forward the message of hope and resilience.

Writing has always been more than just an outlet for me. It is therapy, a way to process my thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a world that often moves too fast. When I share my journey, whether it’s my triumphs, challenges, or the moments in between, I am giving myself permission to reflect, heal, and grow.

Putting words to my health journey helps me find meaning in even the smallest victories. It allows me to embrace vulnerability while turning my struggles into lessons not just for myself, but hopefully for others walking similar paths. And the beauty of it all is that every post becomes a stepping stone toward greater self-awareness and resilience.

The power of community

What truly makes this column so meaningful, however, is you. Your words, your encouragement, and your thoughtful comments remind me why I continue to share my story.

There are days when doubt creeps in and when setbacks feel overwhelming — but then I read your messages and suddenly remember why I keep going. Your kindness, insights, recommendations, and personal stories inspire me in ways you may never fully realize. Your feedback matters.

You remind me that this journey is not mine alone. It’s ours.

Your support turns an individual experience into a collective triumph, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

So, as I continue this path, I want to say thank you. Thank you for reading, for commenting, for sharing pieces of yourselves with me. Thank you for being part of a journey that is so much bigger than just one person’s experience.

Let’s keep walking this road together, supporting, inspiring, and reminding one another that every day is an opportunity to choose life, health, and joy.

Note: Neuromyelitis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Neuromyelitis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.