Columns

Starting Soliris infusions for the second time on my PNH journey

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with Soliris (eculizumab) and Ultomiris (ravulizumab-cwvz). Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. Time seemed to slow down as I entered my infusion center last week. I’ve gotten into…

The importance of paying attention to meningitis risk factors

Fear is something I surprisingly don’t experience much when it comes to living with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). After I’ve been through multiple battles and come out with victories on the other side, the fear of medical unknowns diminishes. Some of my battles have included a blood transfusion, a…

Reflecting on the odds of winning my very specific lottery

What do you think of when you hear the words “one in a million”? Do you think of the chances of winning the lottery and how those odds seem almost impossible, making you sigh with disappointment and think winning could never happen for you? Yet do you still buy a…

Despite my hopes, here’s my farewell letter to Ultomiris

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with Ultomiris (ravulizumab-cwvz). Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. Excited, relieved, and hopeful: These were emotions I felt when I switched my paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) medication a few…

Embracing opportunities when my PNH symptoms hold me back

When I drive, the car is like a sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City. I love singing with a deep-rooted passion along with songs that either have meaningful lyrics or just a sound that somehow resonates with me. I have a wide range of musical tastes…

Reflections on the power of hope and life with chronic illness

Merriam-Webster defines hope as the “expectation of fulfillment or success.” To me, hope is the feeling of wishing for a positive outcome. It prompts thoughts about an altered reality full of positivity and an ease of flow. This four-letter word is simple in name but powerful in the meaning…

Establishing a routine eased my worries about Ultomiris infusions

When I was diagnosed with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), I was intimidated by the idea of being treated with an intravenous medication and having to strictly follow an infusion schedule. I feared the unknown and wasn’t sure what to expect. Over time, though, I grew more comfortable…

How a dog’s love helped me battle PNH and aplastic anemia

Growing up, I’d always heard the quote, “There’s nothing like the bond between a dog and its owner.” I didn’t entirely understand this statement until the day my dad showed up with a dog in his arms while standing on the porch. The dog, Booser, was a cuddly…