FAP News Today Columns

March 1, 2021March 1, 2021

What I Wish I’d Known About How Hereditary Amyloidosis Affects Families

One of my greatest accomplishments in life is being a mother to four amazing individuals. I cannot give enough credit to my kids for handling all of the challenges that ... Read more

February 15, 2021February 15, 2021

The Importance of Maintaining Our Well-being as Caregivers

FAP News Today Columns

Neurologist Donn Dexter wrote an article last year for the Mayo Clinic titled “5 tips to keep your brain healthy.” I thought it was a good read, as it reinforced ... Read more

February 8, 2021February 8, 2021

The Importance of Giving a Voice to Patients and Carers

FAP News Today Columns

A few days ago, I had the honor of presenting at this year’s Patients as Partners Europe virtual conference, an industry forum centered on exchanging ideas about how to more ... Read more

February 1, 2021February 1, 2021

Staying the Course Despite the Trials We Face as Caregivers

FAP News Today Columns

Earlier today, I had the privilege of listening to a fellow carer share the mental, emotional, and physical trials she experienced while supporting her late husband, who was afflicted with ... Read more

January 18, 2021January 18, 2021

Things I Wish I Knew at the Start of Our Amyloidosis Journey

FAP News Today Columns

It is a summer morning here in New Zealand. As I write this, a cool, gentle breeze blows through the house, and I am being serenaded by a symphony of ... Read more

January 11, 2021January 11, 2021

Searching for Peace Despite Chronic Sleep Deprivation

FAP News Today Columns

Sleep is an essential part of life that comes so naturally, from the moment we come into being. Yet sometimes we forget the impact that too much or too little ... Read more

December 21, 2020December 21, 2020

The Beauty of Healing Through Language

FAP News Today Columns

I can hear the shower going upstairs as I sit at my writing desk in my downstairs office. It is funny how the sound of running water always makes me ... Read more

December 14, 2020December 14, 2020

In the New Year, I Will Focus on What Is True

COVID-19 Columns, FAP News Today Columns

2020 is almost at an end. In a few weeks, we will celebrate the holiday season, and before we know it, 2021 will be upon us. The past year was ... Read more

December 7, 2020December 7, 2020

‘Change the Way You Think About It’

FAP News Today Columns

“Surprise!” I watched familiar faces filter into the room where I stood stunned, not expecting the birthday event that was unfolding before me. I turn 50 tomorrow, and some close ... Read more

November 23, 2020November 23, 2020

Tomorrow the Shadows Will Be Gone

FAP News Today Columns

I feel the coolness of the glass against my forehead. The shower is pelting warmth against my skin, but the water doesn’t feel very soothing today. I am tense as ... Read more

November 16, 2020November 16, 2020

Looking for Threads of Hope When Crisis Hits

COVID-19 Columns, FAP News Today Columns

“I love you. If anything happens to me, you know where I keep the account details.” My husband uttered these parting words as I dropped him off for admittance into ... Read more

November 9, 2020November 9, 2020

Even Superheroes Have Sidekicks

FAP News Today Columns

My husband lives under the banner of his disease. This may sound hard-hitting, but it is the fact of the matter. The sooner carers appreciate that hereditary amyloidosis may transform ... Read more

November 2, 2020November 2, 2020

Keep Pushing and Persevering on the Rare Disease Journey

FAP News Today Columns

My laptop reads 3:37 a.m. I made the mistake of checking my work inbox when I should be asleep. There are times I become overzealous in my correspondence. I want ... Read more

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

You Are Stronger Than You Think

FAP News Today Columns

I turn 50 this November, and one of the key things I have learned is that we as human beings totally underrate our ability to overcome tough situations. I have ... Read more

May 20, 2020May 20, 2020

How to Increase Serotonin Levels Naturally

FAP News Today Columns

Part of the work needed to ensure the overall well-being of neuropathy patients is to help them manage their moods and let them know that they are supported. Increased serotonin ... Read more