My Zebra Life

Living with Rare Diagnoses

My Zebra Life

I live with three things that make life look a little different than most: periodic paralysis, a brain tumor on my pituitary, and a traumatic pelvis injury. Medical students are taught, “When you hear hoof beats, think of horses, not zebras.” Turns out, I happen to be one of the “zebras.” For me, writing is therapy in this unpredictable life I lead. For you, I hope that this glimpse into the daily life of a zebra brings understanding and encouragement with maybe a laugh or two along the way.

Why 40 Feels Too Young

Health Update

When I was little, I remember seeing decorations for a 40th birthday party. "Over the hill," the black balloon read. Back then, it felt like a lifetime away before I'd ever be that much of a grown up. Now here I am, feeling that's hardly enough time. My parents,...

When Cancer was the Probability: One Year Later

Family Update

“Evan has a limited amount of blood, so we need an accurate and detailed family history,” the doctor explained. At the bare minimum, Todd and I had to list any cancers diagnosed to any relatives. “I’ve been in close contact with the pediatric oncologists on Oahu and...

Waves of Grief

Health Update

There's a reason I've been quiet. Wave after wave of grief keep hitting, and I'm struggling to come up for air. The depressing state of affairs in my nation. The destruction from the Maui fires. The early death of an uncle I loved. The devastating betrayal from family...