Stretcher-Bearers — Lori Dunham

What is the first thing most of us did when the doctor mentioned Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) as a possible diagnosis? We Googled it, of course. We know that, while the internet offers a wealth of information,…

March brings with it a bag of mixed emotions for this mama’s heart. In March 2005, our daughter was born to a mother who would never watch her grow up. She made the hard decision to leave her…

When I hear statistics about how many people are affected by the rare disease Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), I’m overcome by the minuscule odds that my daughter Grace is one of them. How could such a rare and…

I’m often surprised by the general lack of understanding about chronic illness and rare disease, which reminds me just how important it is to share our stories. In doing so, we can combat common misconceptions. Many friends…

This week marks a new chapter in our daughter Grace’s rare disease journey. A few months ago, her pediatric neuromuscular neurologist announced that he was leaving his practice, and we had our final appointment with him last week.

Most people who have faced a health crisis understand the relief of finally receiving a diagnosis. Once this happens, a plan of action can be put into place. When our daughter Grace was diagnosed with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome…

Every six months, my daughter Grace and I go to the children’s hospital for her Rituxan (rituximab) infusions. This has proven to be one of the most effective treatments for Grace after she was diagnosed with Lambert-Eaton…

I am not a skilled photographer. Family milestones come and go, and I’ll forget to document them. Christmas will slip by and I won’t take any photos. The same goes for birthdays. I’d like to think I’m too focused…

New Year’s always prompts such optimism for the future. It’s as if the world pauses from the chaos of the year to welcome a more promising time. I’m certainly hopeful about what the days ahead will bring. I’ve lived…

My husband says traveling is in his blood. He grew up overseas, so it was only natural that we would often travel to his “home” early on in our marriage. When we started having kids, we learned all the…

I don’t like surprises. Almost every Christmas, my husband and I end up sharing what we bought for each other long before we find the gifts under the Christmas tree. Along the same lines, I would much rather plan…

When my daughter Grace was 10, she requested a taser for Christmas. I’m not sure what prompted this request or why she felt the need for one. Regardless, she did not find a taser under the Christmas tree that…