232 - Can Rare Disease Create Heroes?

<p>Episode 232 welcomes Matt LaFleur who shares his journey as a rare disease patient with Friedreich's ataxia (FA). Matt talks about how he transitioned from viewing himself as a victim of FA to seeing himself as a hero in his own story. He describes the impact of the diagnosis as an "inciting event" and highlights how the hero's journey is not just a linear path but a cyclical one. Matt emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility and finding <a title="A Column by Matthew LaFleur" href= "https://friedreichsataxianews.com/category/columns/little-victories-a-column-by-matthew-lafleur/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">little victories</a> along the way, despite the ongoing presence of FA. The discussion touches on various aspects of life with a rare disease, relationships, and personal growth. Matt also shares his experience of presenting at the <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl9M2rdI24E&list=PLdr4vvwxGhYd97KW33E_pnl3qcjgUSKyr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FA Symposium</a> and how he and his co-presenters used mythical characters to relate their topics to the hero's journey concept. The episode offers a unique perspective on finding inspiration and resilience in the face of adversity.</p> <p><strong>Links & Resources</strong></p> <ul> <li>Register Today: <a href= "https://friedreichsataxianews.com/event-registration/">Friedreich's ataxia News Virtual Event, Nov 1</a></li> <li>Read: <a title="Little Victories" href= "https://friedreichsataxianews.com/category/columns/little-victories-a-column-by-matthew-lafleur/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matt's Column</a></li> <li>Watch: <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl9M2rdI24E&list=PLdr4vvwxGhYd97KW33E_pnl3qcjgUSKyr" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FARA FA Symposium Recordings</a></li> </ul> <p> </p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <p> </p> <p>This episode brought to you in part by Reata Pharmaceuticals.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img class= "wp-image-3006 jetpac