Hidden Innovations in Disguise

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend Rare Disease Day at the NIH in Washington DC 💛

The event brings together patients, researchers, advocates, and families to raise awareness about rare diseases and the real impact they have on people’s lives.

One of the most inspiring parts was hearing personal stories from patients like Lindsay Guentzel, who shared how a clinical trial helped put her disease into remission, and Olivia Kania’s family, who talked about how research and partnerships led to life-changing treatment options for juvenile myositis.

Moments like this are such an important reminder of why advocacy, research, and clinical trials matter so much. Behind every treatment and breakthrough is a real person, a real family, and real hope ✨

Earlier this spring, I visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC.
Seeing all the names was already emotional, but finding veterans with the same last name as mine made the experience feel even more personal.
Today on Memorial Day, I’m thinking about the people and families behind those names and honoring the sacrifices they made ❤️

This Mother’s Day feels extra special now that I’m finally back home with my mom for summer 💛
Happy Mother’s Day!