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]

Support is essential to help navigate the many challenges of a serious illness. Illness can bring difficult treatments, painful side effects and patchy recovery periods. Asking for and accepting help, however, is often complicated because we value our independence. [More]

The 4th of July is nearly here. At my house, this has always meant a pool party that, as twilight approaches, moves in mass to our local park to watch a fabulous firework display and listen to a live concert. One of the worst parts of the pandemic last year was the isolation from my community and friends during the holidays, including the 4th of July. [More]

I keep hearing everyone talking about how they cannot wait for things to return to the way they were before COVID-19. Like everyone else, I am tired of social distancing, wearing a mask, and not freely traveling like I did less than two years ago. [More]