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I took a shower yesterday and then had a hard look at myself in the mirror. I didn’t like everything I saw. Later, I was helping my wife clean our living room and I saw a photo of my dad I had taken years ago. I didn’t like what I…

“You really should get that bump checked out.” It was September 2014, just after Labor Day, and a friend was pointing out the obvious. The bump, which I thought was just a rash, seemed to have no intention of going away. I didn’t think much of it at first, but…

Back when I was healthy, I’d work up to three jobs at a time and volunteer on top of that. My husband’s work schedule was based on seniority, and because he was relatively new to his job, he usually had crummy hours and even crummier days off. He was coming…

For those with sarcoidosis, one of the most challenging aspects of the disease is finding folks who are just like us. I’m not referring to race, gender, or any other characteristic that differentiates us as individuals. I’m talking about the things that make us the same. I’m talking about finding…

The other day, I sent a message to my rheumatologist asking about getting a third shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. It was 11 p.m. on a Sunday, but I had to send it before I forgot. A half-hour later, I received two notifications about a new message and a letter…

Chances are you’ve done a lot in your life, and you have more living to do. I guess that’s why folks have bucket lists. Some will say I’ve been lucky, but I say I’ve been blessed. With sarcoidosis, one health issue can lead to another. It’s important to stay focused…

It seems there’s a commemorative day for just about everything. Today alone apparently is the Gold Cup Parade, National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day (I’m all for that), National Radio Day, and World Mosquito Day (no thanks). I recently learned that Aug. 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, which…

“Well, listen to your lungs.” Those were the first words from my doctor’s mouth, following his slight look of concern. It was early 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic began in the United States, and I had boldly (and perhaps foolishly) told him that I was running a half-marathon in…

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” — Matthew 5:8 In 2017, my life took a turn I never expected. When something blindsides us, especially when it involves our health, sometimes we can interpret it as just an interruption in our lives. But most often, it’ll…

The other day, I was sitting on the couch recuperating from my shower. (Yes, for many people with sarcoidosis, a shower is an Olympic event that requires planning, preparation, and recovery — but that’s a story for another day.) Anyway, I was on the couch trying to relax when, suddenly,…