I faced lot of challenges both socially and academically throughout my life. However, with a lot of love from my mother and godly mentors, I was able to overcome many of those struggles. I graduated with four science degrees in community college and taught at a private school as a preschool teacher. These achievements were both dreams come true. Later in life I was diagnosed with Klinefelter and DiGeorge syndrome. Rare Disease Day is important to me because I believe that having a rare disease does not define who you are, it challenges you to go the extra mile. We in the rare community are all awesome people with great potential!
To those outside of the rare community without a rare disease, I would ask that you look at us with compassion and an outstretched heart. As a member of the rare community, I will be showing my stripes this Rare Disease Day by reaching out to others with rare disorders! I have two beautiful nieces with DiGeorge and Down syndrome whom I will celebrate by reaching out to.
