From Fear to Fighter - Brandi Lewis

Have you heard the term “invisible illness”? The Invisible Disabilities Association defines it as “a physical, mental, or neurological condition that is not visible from the outside, yet can limit or challenge…

When I was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), I was so focused on managing my blood disorders that I neglected to work out. One day, I went…

For me, battling aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I know I’m not starting this column on a positive note, but it’s better to be straightforward…

When I was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), I thought that if I could find one great doctor who knew how to tackle my blood disorders, I’d…

After being diagnosed with two rare blood disorders, aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), I felt alone and often asked, “Why me?” I didn’t understand why I’d been chosen to take…

Battling aplastic anemia and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) can be stressful. As the World Health Organization notes, “the way we respond to stress, however, makes a big difference to our overall well-being.”…

After being diagnosed with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and aplastic anemia, I’ve learned to listen to my body and identify specific symptoms when they occur. I experience an array of them, including nosebleeds,…

Last Saturday, I went to the movie theater to watch “A Quiet Place: Day One.” This film is a prequel to “A Quiet Place” and “A Quiet Place: Part 2.” As the movie…

Recently, I was asked to provide advice to a fellow patient on how I handled coming out of remission from aplastic anemia and, at the same time, being diagnosed with paroxysmal…

Last weekend, I attended a first birthday party for my friend’s son. During the week leading up to the party, I wasn’t feeling my best, as I was struggling with severe fatigue and headaches.