Columns

Letting Go of My Pride and Asking for Help

A scene from the animated Nickelodeon show “Avatar: The Last Airbender” has been on my mind recently. It’s an exchange between a character named Iroh, an old and wise retired general, and his nephew, Zuko, a young and…

A Lesson from Woody for When I Feel Down

“We’re all Forky, feeling like we’re trash, but we’re also all Woody, trying to convince each other that we’re not trash.” A friend of mine tweeted those words shortly after seeing “Toy Story 4” last year. At the time, I thought it was a cute and…

Tips for Photography Enthusiasts with Disabilities

Recently, I joined a photography group for moms, and with them, I’ve been learning new techniques to feed my passion. However, there are times that I find these techniques difficult due to Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT). My hands sometimes shake which makes the photo blurry, or I hit the shutter too soon…

I’m Trying Not to Let Fear Limit Me

The indoor track of my alma mater’s gym smells like rubber and sweat. It has a specific warmth to it. The repeated impacts of dozens of feet send shockwaves through the track and almost make it feel alive.  It’s been more than 10 years since I’ve…

I’m Trying to Make Exercise Irresistible

A couple weeks ago when I spoke with Steve O’Donnell, a board member of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association and founder of the nonprofit Therapies for Inherited Neuropathies, I was struck by his enthusiasm and can-do spirit.

It’s Time to Be Gentler with Myself

A few months ago, I was at a photography club meeting and the leader reminded us to be gentle with ourselves. The comment really hit home. I know the benefits of self-care and what I should do to take care of myself. But do I always follow through? No,…