Mary Chapman, features writer —

Mary graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in journalism. She began her career at United Press International, then spent a decade reporting for the Bureau of National Affairs, Inc. (now Bloomberg Industry Group). Mary has written extensively for The New York Times, and her work has appeared in publications such as Time, Newsweek, Fortune, and the Chicago Tribune. She’s won a Society of Professional Journalists award for outstanding reporting.

Articles by Mary Chapman

EveryLife Introduces First of Kind ‘Roadmap’ to ICD Codes

To help patient advocacy leaders and their partners better understand how global health statistics codes — known as ICD codes — are assigned, updated, and revised in the U.S. health information system, the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases is presenting a first-of-its-kind resource guide. The foundation created the…

How Will Pompe Disease Affect My Work Life?

If you have late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) and are employed, or are considering employment, you’re likely going to need some workplace adjustments, particularly as the disorder progresses. Here’s some information about how Pompe disease might affect your work life. What is Pompe disease? Pompe disease is a debilitating…

Your Daily Routine With Late Onset Pompe Disease

While the effects of late-onset Pompe disease on everyday life are far-reaching, there are steps you can take in your daily routine to help ease these difficulties and work around your limitations. It just takes some advance planning, a little bit of creativity, and perhaps some adaptive equipment.

Shoshin for Adults Living With Pompe Disease

If you have a chronic disease such as late-onset Pompe disease, a Japanese concept called shoshin may help you to perceive the world, and your disorder, in a different light. Based on Zen Buddhism, shoshin means “beginner’s mind.” What is Pompe disease? Pompe disease is a debilitating and…

Rare Disease Day at NIH, Set for March 1, Growing Year by Year

Rare Disease Day at NIH, organized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and taking place on March 1, will feature panel discussions, patient stories, research updates, TED-style talks, and a presentation by a Nobel laureate recently recognized for her work on a gene editing tool. The free, virtual…

Pandemic Won’t Stop Rare Disease Day on Feb. 28

Scores of virtual events are afoot around the world to mark Rare Disease Day 2021 on Feb. 28. The activities are focused on heightening awareness about rare diseases and the hundreds of millions of individuals they are thought to affect. Patients, caregivers, and advocates worldwide will sport denim ribbons…

NORD’s 6th ‘State Report Card’ Notes Progress, Raises Concerns

While progress was made last year on newborn screening and other policy issues critical to rare disease patients, a “State Report Card” argues that many concerns — notably out-of-pocket costs for prescription medicines and access to affordable comprehensive care — still need attention. Those were the findings of the…

Respite Care for Pompe Disease

Patients with Pompe disease may need constant care. Providing such care can be mentally, physically, and emotionally depleting for a caregiver. Sooner or later, you will need to refuel your body and mind. Respite care can give you the chance to rest, relax, and restore. About Pompe disease Pompe disease…