Stretcher-Bearers – a Column by Lori Dunham

Lori Dunham and her family have lived all over the world, thanks to the U.S. Navy. She and her husband have three children and currently live in North Florida. At age 14, their daughter was diagnosed with the rare disease Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Lori’s mission in writing is to inspire and encourage those who find themselves in the role of caregiver to a loved one with a rare disease. When she is not writing or homeschooling her two youngest, Lori enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with family.

Facing long-distance travel challenges after a LEMS diagnosis

The first time we noticed our daughter Grace exhibiting symptoms of what we now know to be Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), we were in the airport traveling to Texas for Christmas. Our three kids were dragging their suitcases through the parking garage to the check-in counter. Suddenly, we…

A friend with LEMS shares her pregnancy journey

For women with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), it’s concerning that there are little to no data on pregnancy and LEMS. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce Kristin Williams, a 31-year-old registered nurse from New York who has firsthand experience with both. Kristin and I met through the…

The LEMS community is making progress through advocacy

When our daughter Grace was diagnosed with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) at age 15, I didn’t think anything good could come of it. However, as time has passed and her health has improved, I’ve found that some things have changed for the better. One positive result is Grace’s…

Oh, for a place where everybody knows your name

I grew up in a little town tucked away in northeastern Pennsylvania. Every Wednesday and Sunday, my family members would wind our way down the mountain on a stretch of narrow roads. We’d head through the countryside to the majestic steepled church, with stained-glass windows and family surrounding us. If…

My daughter is showing progress after years of LEMS treatment

Note: This column describes the experiences the author’s daughter had with various medications. Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. Five years ago, our daughter Grace began her journey with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). She was diagnosed…

Considering the whole family when planning a vacation

Our family has eclectic interests. These differences have been amplified by our middle daughter’s diagnosis of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) when she was 15 years old. That daughter, Grace, is a homebody. She’s always been content within the four walls we call home. Understandably, LEMS has intensified her…