Category: Insightful
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Taking a Break and Considering the Ecological Impact After the Hurricane
As I sit by a riverside in South Georgia today, surrounded by nature, I can’t help but reflect on the unseen damage that Hurricane Helene has caused—not just to people, but to the environment as well. While watching videos of people rescuing pets and livestock from roofs that once protected homes, and mothers crying over…
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Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Western North Carolina: A Personal Reflection and Call to Action
The Appalachian Mountains, a region steeped in both beauty and history, has long been a defining force in my life. Western North Carolina, where I was born and where most of my family still lives, is not only a landscape of serene valleys and rolling hills, but also a region prone to the destructive forces…
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“Your Voice, Your Vote: A Call to Action for the Upcoming Election”
As we approach the upcoming election, it’s more important than ever to remember that voting is not just a right—it is your duty. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum—whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Constitutionalist, or hold any other viewpoint—your vote matters. Elections shape the future of our country, from local issues…
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Understanding Fanconi Anemia: A Rare Genetic Disorder
Fanconi Anemia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to repair damaged DNA, leading to a host of serious health complications. It’s most commonly inherited and can be passed down if both parents carry a defective gene related to FA. The disease primarily targets the bone marrow, resulting in decreased production…
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Rare to Rare: Caregiving for a Rare as a Rare
Being a caregiver is a challenging role, but when you’re balancing your own chronic illness while caring for a spouse with another rare disease, the challenges intensify. I live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare connective tissue disorder that leads to chronic pain and physical limitations, while my husband, Dexter, has Fanconi Anemia (FA), a…
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The Keys to a Happy Marriage
Marriage in today’s world can feel more challenging than ever, with societal pressures and personal expectations often steering couples into a “me-first” mindset. Too often, we focus on what we can get out of our relationships, rather than what we can contribute. When those desires go unmet, many of us resort to nagging, complaining, or…
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The Way Forward
This morning, while making breakfast, I thanked a little Cellar Spider for catching some ants in my pantry. Living in the country, bugs can be a nuisance, and these spiders can be a real blessing, especially when you’re trying to stretch every dollar—groceries are more expensive than ever these days! As I was tidying up,…
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Living Waters: A Journey of Renewal
My latest painting, “Living Waters,” is a reflection of the beauty of life’s journey and the enduring bonds between mother and child. This piece captures a breathtaking scene of a rocky cliff with a deep blue waterfall cascading into a river, illuminated by a light shining from behind the falls into the night sky. On…
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Embracing the Beauty of Digital Art: Accessibility, Creativity, and Respect
The rise of digital art has opened up incredible opportunities for artists, particularly those with disabilities. It provides a level of accessibility that traditional mediums often lack, allowing creators to produce stunning work from the comfort of their homes. Digital platforms offer tools that can accommodate various needs, making it easier for artists to bring…
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Thinking About Moving to Georgia? You Might Want to Think Twice!
Today’s post takes a detour from my usual topics, but it’s an issue that weighs heavily on my heart: the crumbling state of Georgia’s healthcare system and its devastating impact on those of us with rare diseases. Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare connective tissue disorder, means constantly navigating a complex web of medical…
Country Girl Gone City 