COVID-19

How Shortages Affect the Rare Disease Community

It’s no secret that COVID-19 has caused a lot of issues for not just the United States, but the entire world. Because of the pandemic, for example, we’ve recently been experiencing issues getting the necessary medical supplies for my 4-year-old son, Cayden, who has infantile-onset Pompe disease. Cayden…

COVID-19 Largely Mild in 4 LOPD Patients With Pulmonary Weakness

Infection by the virus that causes COVID-19 led to mild-to-moderate symptoms in four people with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) and pulmonary involvement, despite the increased risk of severe complications in such cases, scientists reported. “COVID-19 infection can result in a benign course in some patients with LOPD. However, individuals with LOPD…

When COVID-19 Came to My House

My family had managed to avoid being exposed to COVID-19 until recently. Earlier this month, on the same day I got my vaccine booster shot, I was exposed to the virus by my mom. She woke up feeling very sick the next day, and shortly after that, all…

Making Hard Decisions for My Child With a Rare Disease

Although my 3-year-old son, Cayden, loves preschool, I had to make a tough decision not to send him for a while. We have officially entered cold and flu season. While most parents don’t look forward to this time of year, it’s especially terrifying for me. Cayden’s infantile-onset Pompe disease…

Rare Disease Diversity Coalition Awards $600K to Combat Disparities

The Rare Disease Diversity Coalition (RDDC) awarded $600,000 in grants to ease the disparities faced by rare disease patients of color. These Impact Rare Disease Solution grants will go five RDDC steering committee working groups, which aim to identify problems for rare disease communities and advocate for solutions. The five…