Columns

I live in rural Nebraska with my husband, Jason, and seven children. Three of them — Max, 20, Rowen, 17, and Charlie, 15 — live with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), so I am a mom to many as well as a caregiver. At times, it feels like I’m giving…

As parents, we dedicate our lives to raising our children. We work long and hard, striving to meet their needs, teach kindness, encourage a strong work ethic, and foster self-advocacy. Our goal is to help them grow into successful adults. As a mom of many, I can see my and…

Recently, standing up has become even more difficult for me than it previously was. The last few times I sat in my comfy recliner in my music and writing room, I worried I might have to call 911 for help getting up. My son, Ryan, had already added 3-inch risers…

According to the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases, more than 30 million Americans live with at least one rare disease. Considering that’s nearly 10% of the U.S. population, these diseases don’t seem so rare after all. For decades, the disability rights movement has fought for the rights of…

The comment comes in many forms: “I don’t know how you do it.” “You have your hands full!” “I can’t imagine what it would be like.” It’s always in response to seeing my large family. I share seven children with my husband, Jason: Lexi, 24; Max, 20; Chance, 18; Rowen,…

For most of my life, Duchenne muscular dystrophy has defined how I navigate the world. Duchenne is a genetic condition that causes progressive muscle loss. Over time, it weakens the arms, legs, breathing muscles, and heart. Many adults with Duchenne, including me, use wheelchairs and rely on a…

I’m one of those people who can get lost deep in thought. As a busy mom to many in a bustling household that could seem like chaos to others, my thoughts are often my only quiet time. I share seven children with my husband, Jason: Lexi, 24; Max, 20; Chance,…

My facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) has progressed to the point where daily activities are increasingly challenging, and often impossible, to manage on my own. As a result, I now need more help than ever before. I know I’m doing the best I can. I exercise daily, hoping to keep…

Living with a rare disease is incredibly complex, with countless layers to navigate. Managing daily life amid so many unknowns — and trying to find a regimen that truly works — can feel overwhelming. From the routine of medications and other relentless therapies to countless medical frustrations, we’re forced…

I recently found myself rummaging through a very old collection of things from my childhood that my mother had preserved. Raise your hand if you have stuff like this: a box of certificates and trophies that you don’t remember, newspaper clippings of school events, scouting programs, a math paper from…