Meet Nolan

My name is Nolan,and I'm from Virginia Beach, Virginia. At this time the dystonia will effect just about anything that I do, but my one true passion is running. I…

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Meme: You’re Not Alone

A support system, a family member, a significant other, a friend, can mean so much and knowing that there others out there who are going through the same thing, however…

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Meme: Get Back Up!

Unfortunately, there will always be bad days. The thing is, you are allowed to feel miserable sometimes. Everyone does. The important thing is that you pick yourself back up, sometimes…

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Meme: Patients are Experts

This goes for peers and physicians alike, chances are if you are uncertain about some aspect of an illness the patients themselves can fill you in. Patients do so much…

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Meme: Strength Together

No doubt there's strength in numbers. Maybe your family friends offer unending support that boosts you when you're low. Maybe you participate in a local support group or are part…

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Meme: Beautiful Crayons

Broken crayons still color an regardless of whatever part of your body is not cooperating with you, you are not any less beautiful, purposeful, and important. The colors of your…

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Meme: Healthcare Road Map

Surprises often aren't welcome when it comes to your health. Working with your healthcare team to develop reasonable expectations and general timeline can be comforting to many. Do you create…

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Meme: Teach Kids to Advocate

Kids with rare diseases will often be dealing with doctors for their entire lives and helping them find their voice along the way is important. Letting your child speak to…

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Meme: Scared and Brave

Bravery is something rare disease patients know a lot about. They may be scared before a procedure, and understandably so, but more than likely they've done their research and they're…

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Meme: Family at Appointments

Family members can offer emotional and moral support during trying appointments but they can also be your back-up. If you have a lapse in memory or aren't sure how to…

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Meme: Help Others and Benefit

Being compassionate and willing to lend a hand can make someone else's day but also impact your own. Even in illness, when many tasks aren't plausible, there is often a…

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Meme: Ask About Responsibilities

Don't you hate when you remember a question you wanted to ask after you've already left? Arguably the most important questions are towards the end of appointments, when you're receiving…

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Meme: Sexy Illness

Illness isn't always pretty even when it's "invisible". What your peers might not see, your family and significant other probably has a little more insight to. In sickness and in…

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Meme: Communication = Goals

Communication is key, and it's extra-important for patients with rare diseases. Be sure to communicate with your doctors; how you're feeling and what you want to know. Communicate with your…

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