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Editor’s note: This story includes a mention of suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org. Internationally, find a suicide prevention helpline at…

When I was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease in 2020, my then boyfriend, and now husband, Peter, became my caregiver. At the time, we thought it would be temporary. We hoped that once I had the tumor surgically removed, I’d get better and we’d put this chapter behind us. Unfortunately,…

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with vaccinations. Not everyone will have the same response. Consult your doctor about whether a particular vaccine is recommended for you. Two weekends ago, I went ahead and got the dreaded COVID-19 and flu vaccines. I am a big believer in the…

Chronic stress can negatively affect a person’s memory. Because Cushing’s disease is characterized by elevated cortisol levels, putting our bodies in a state of chronic stress, those of us with the condition may experience memory issues. For me, it’s a huge issue that deeply affects my life. My short-term…

I have felt hopeless on many occasions. When I first got sick with Cushing’s disease and nobody seemed to know what was wrong with me, I felt completely devastated. When I underwent surgery to remove my pituitary tumor, it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020,…

Many people with Cushing’s disease have the dreaded “buffalo hump.” Mine appeared a few years before my official diagnosis. My husband pointed out a weird lump between my shoulders, but I shrugged it off as bad posture and started stretching to correct it. However, as the lump grew larger…

Sex and intimacy can be uncomfortable to discuss. It can feel like a private conversation, especially after receiving a medical diagnosis that affects your sex life. However, it’s important to be open and honest about how chronic illness can affect intimacy so that the topic becomes less taboo. With…

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with various medications and supplements. Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. My Cushing’s disease treatment plan has changed many times over the years. I have blood work done every…

I am nine months postpartum, and while I’ve recovered from the urgent cesarean section and am managing motherhood to the best of my abilities, it has been a wild ride. While the initial postpartum period typically lasts six to eight weeks, full healing can take up to a year.

I smile the entire night, have a few sips of wine, and push myself. A long walk? You bet. A staircase? I can handle it. You want to eat at 9 p.m. and then go home in the dark? Sure. I try my best to appear normal. It’s not that…