Years ago, I read a book titled Love in the Time of Cholera about two young lovers who communicated through letters during a pandemic. The story is about much more than writing love letters. It is about life, loss, maturity and second chances. With the third Valentine's Day during a pandemic approaching, the book made me think about how people communicated in the past and how fortunate we are today. [More]

My great-grandmother lived with me when I was growing up. She passed away my senior year of high school at the ripe old age of 104. Many of my friends thought it was a burden to have her at home. I never did! In fact, I learned a lot about life from her. Over the years, I have benefited a lot from what she taught me such as how to can fruit and vegetables, the importance of exercise and to have faith. But I never realized the most important thing she taught me was to be happy. [More]

Before I sit down to write a blog, I spend a few days thinking about the topic and how readers will relate to it. This month, I was going to write about how this Thanksgiving was different than last year's when we were facing a long winter of lockdown and how thankful I was the end of the pandemic was in sight. Then I read the news about the latest mutation of COVID-19: Omicron! [More]

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays! I love decorating the front yard, helping plan costumes for my kids, and getting ready for trick-or-treaters. Unfortunately, many people with chronic illnesses are too sick or simply don't have the energy to prepare for the holiday. Don't fear, there are many ways to enjoy the holiday and still take care of yourself. Check out some of the shortcuts I have learned to save up your spoons for the big day! [More]

As the patient advocate for IG Living, I am frequently asked for information about the Medicare IVIG Demonstration Project and its purpose. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) conducts and sponsors demonstration projects to test and measure the effect of potential program changes on patients and their access to treatment. [More]

With everyone's attention focused on COVID -19 for almost two years, it's easy to forget it isn't the only virus out there. In fact, it's important to remember that the influenza (flu) virus is still out there, and it is still a serious threat to people's health, particularly those who suffer from an immune or autoimmune disease. Part of the reason concern over the flu has taken a back seat to COVID-19 is the remarkable lack of reported cases and deaths associated with it. [More]

For many years, I was involved in politics. I have run for office, have drafted legislation and have been a member of both parties, and I lean toward conservative. So, I am serious when I say I have no idea how wearing a mask became a political issue. [More]

Tonight is the night before the first day of school for my youngest child. While it is technically the beginning of her sophomore year, it is the first time she will have been to her high school as a student. In fact, it will be the first time she has been inside a school in a year and a half. [More]