Posts by: Young Lee

When I started cleaning my place, I thought I’d finish in one evening. I didn’t think that was an unreasonable expectation. An evening is how long it usually takes. However, ... Read more

June 8, 2021June 8, 2021

Paying Attention to the Hope, Joy, and Love in Our Lives

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

I don’t love having Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). In fact, if there was a surefire way to rid my body of its symptoms, I would certainly be interested. However, my life ... Read more

May 25, 2021May 25, 2021

I Don’t Fear the Word ‘Disabled’ — I’m Embracing It

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

“But you’re not really disabled.” I’ve heard those words, or words to that effect, a few times in my life. Folks have always said this to me with good intent, ... Read more

May 18, 2021May 18, 2021

Be Patient With Me, I’m a Slow Walker

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

When I was in college, Facebook groups and communities with names like “I want to punch slow walkers in the head” or “Slow walkers deserve to be kicked” were pretty ... Read more

May 4, 2021May 4, 2021

I’m on the Hunt for a New Pastime to Keep Me Active

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

When a batter hits a baseball in just the right way, the impact makes a sound that’s pretty darn satisfying. It’s the distinctive “crack” that many folks think of when ... Read more

April 20, 2021April 20, 2021

If Words Are Weapons, I Don’t Want to Be an Unwitting Warrior

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

If I’m going to wield a weapon and fight in a war, I want to be conscious of the intricacies of the weapon I’m supposed to wield. And I’d certainly ... Read more

April 13, 2021April 13, 2021

Receiving an Offer of Help Reminded Me What It Means to Be a CMTer

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns, COVID-19 Columns

I had just exited the county building after getting my second shot of the COVID-19 vaccine and was making my way across the parking lot toward my car. Then I ... Read more

April 6, 2021April 6, 2021

Home Cooking Videos Showed a New Side of CMT Symptoms

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

I’m no Gordon Ramsay. And it’d be insulting to actual professionals if I were to call myself a chef or even a home cook. However, I do feel fairly comfortable ... Read more

March 23, 2021March 23, 2021

Pondering My Body’s Limitations Has Brought Me Back to Dancing

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

A long time ago, a friend asked if there was anything I wished I could do that was outside my ability, capability, or means. The question wasn’t prompted by familiarity ... Read more

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021

A Cringeworthy Memory Reminds Me of an Important CMT Lesson

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

I pointed the pistol downrange, lined up the sights, and pulled the trigger. But apart from a small “click,” the pistol in my hands didn’t make a sound. The gun ... Read more

March 2, 2021March 2, 2021

Even When I’m Fatigued and Unproductive, I’m Not Useless

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

Standing outside a chicken hatchery, a man smokes a cigarette while watching his young son play. He and his wife are new to town and they both have been working ... Read more

February 23, 2021February 23, 2021

Rare Disease Day Reminds Me of the Importance of Community

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns, COVID-19 Columns

For much of my life, I couldn’t imagine a better world for those of us with disabilities, rare diseases, and chronic conditions. I just wasn’t thinking about the disability rights ... Read more

January 26, 2021January 26, 2021

Getting a Handle on Emotional Eating Caused by Stress and Anxiety

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

Four weeks ago, I heard some unsettling news coming from my radio. And when I turned to my Twitter feed, I saw disturbing images parading across my computer screen. At ... Read more

January 19, 2021January 19, 2021

What I’ve Learned From Beach Trips and My Wobbly Time on the Sand

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

Because of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, I’m always a bit wobbly whenever and wherever I walk. But if you think I look unsteady walking on pavement, you should see me walking on ... Read more

January 12, 2021January 12, 2021

When It Comes to Shoes, I’m Putting Accessibility Before Fashion

Charcot-Marie-Tooth News Columns

In Asian culture, it’s important to take your shoes off before entering a house. It’s a sign of respect. When visiting friends for dinner parties or any kind of gathering, ... Read more