Back to School with MG: Tools, Tips & Resources for Every Age

Whether you're heading into middle school, starting college, or returning to school as an adult, managing Myasthenia Gravis (MG) while pursuing education brings both challenges and opportunities. As a new school year begins, we've gathered tips and tools to help students of all ages succeed in and out of the classroom.

Academic Success Tips for Students with MG

Starting a new academic chapter can be exciting—and a bit overwhelming—especially when you're also managing a chronic illness like MG. Whether you're a teen navigating high school, a college student balancing a demanding schedule, or an adult returning to the classroom, it's important to approach education with tools and strategies that support your health and success. Here are some practical ways to stay on top of school while taking care of your health and speaking up for what you need.

1. Know Your Limits and Pace Yourself. MG can cause fatigue that worsens with activity. Create a flexible study plan that includes built-in rest periods. Prioritize high-energy tasks for times of day when you feel strongest.

2. Use the Buddy System. MG symptoms can be unpredictable and may suddenly impact your ability to function during a school day. If you're in middle or high school, communicate with a trusted teacher, counselor, or nurse who understands your condition. In college, your disability services office can be your best ally.

3. Plan for Absences. Whether it’s due to flare-ups or treatment appointments, it’s a good idea to build relationships with teachers early and work out plans for makeup work in advance.

4. Advocate for Yourself. Keep track of your symptoms and communicate when you need support. Self-advocacy is a skill that will serve you far beyond the classroom.

Adaptable Tools & Tech to Support Learning

Managing schoolwork with myasthenia gravis can be challenging, especially on days when fatigue or muscle weakness makes reading, writing, or focusing more difficult. Fortunately, there are a wide range of tools and technologies that can help you stay engaged and productive. These resources can help reduce physical strain, improve access to learning materials, and support your unique learning needs.

• Speech-to-text software (like Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Word or Google Docs voice typing) for days when writing is tiring.

• Audiobooks and text-to-speech tools (like Learning Ally or Speechify) can make reading less taxing.

• Ergonomic computer mouse and keyboards to help slow muscle fatigue.

• Laptops and Tablets with accessibility features, like iPads with voice control or Surface tablets with eye-tracking.

• PCs for People: A nonprofit that provides low-cost, refurbished laptops and internet

  solutions to those who qualify by income or through enrollment in assistance programs. Learn more: https://www.pcsforpeople.org or the MGA's direct link here.

Scholarships for Students with Myasthenia Gravis

Education is a powerful tool, but tuition and related expenses can be overwhelming, especially when living with a chronic condition like MG. Fortunately, several scholarships exist specifically for students (and in some cases caregivers!) with rare diseases, chronic illnesses, or disabilities. These organizations and programs can help ease the financial burden and support your academic goals. Be sure to review each program's eligibility criteria and deadlines carefully.

• National Organization for Rare Diseases (NORD) Students for Rare Scholarship

• Patient Advocate Foundation’s Scholarship for Survivors

• EveryLife Foundation's Rare is Scholarship

• Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) College Scholarship Program

• UCB's Myasthenia Gravis Scholarship

• Lime Connect Scholarships

• Disability Care Center’s Scholarship for College Students with Disabilities

Understanding Your Rights: ADA & Accommodations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that students with MG or other chronic conditions have access to reasonable accommodations. These can include:

• Extra time on tests

• Note-taking services

• Flexible attendance policies

• Accessible housing (for college)

• Modified physical education requirements

Contact your school’s Office of Accessibility (college) or 504 Coordinator (K–12) to request accommodations. You’ll likely need a letter or documentation from your doctor, so it’s good to plan ahead. You may also visit the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division for resources.

The Myasthenia Gravis Association is here to support you. Whether you're a parent of a young student with MG, a college freshman navigating dorm life, or an adult tackling a degree mid-career—we believe in your goals and are here to help you meet them.

Want to connect with others in the MG community navigating school? Reach out to us or join one of our support groups!

Here’s to a successful and supported school year!

If you’d like more resources, help navigating accommodations, or just someone to talk to about your plans, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@mgakc.org.