Essays and reflections

From the Blog

September 13, 2026

Give Your Mind Somewhere to Walk

During my PET scan last week, I wasn’t thinking only about the IV in my arm or the medication that was making my chest hurt. I was walking into the Magic Kingdom. I was also paying attention to my symptoms—I just wasn’t letting them become the only thing my brain could think about. That probably […]

September 13, 2026

What Does Self Advocacy Look Like?

One of the questions I hear most often is, “How do I advocate for myself without sounding difficult?” It’s a fair question. Many of us were raised to believe that “good patients” are quiet, agreeable, and grateful. We don’t want to waste anyone’s time. We don’t want to be labeled as anxious, dramatic, or noncompliant. […]