"Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
You’ve probably heard this quote in recent news as we all mourn the loss of social justice warrior Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RGB). Politics aside, RGB was a determined spirit, and her years of activism paved the way for so many of us today.
Like RGB, MGA founder Joan Stackhouse made it her mission to provide a voice to a community that needed to be recognized, valued, and heard. As a result of Joan’s pursuit, the MGA will officially observe it’s 60th birthday this year, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the evolution of this organization.
These past few weeks I have been reflecting on all the accomplishments both these women achieved throughout their lifetimes. The visual that keeps replaying in my mind is the moment in which you drop a rock into the water and the ripple effect it has on its surroundings. It’s the idea that something or someone so small can transform the lives of so many. How incredible is it to think that profound change is born from one person with one dream?
In the 1960s, there was little support and understanding of an MG diagnosis. As a result of Stackhouse’s ambition and all the people that joined in on her efforts over the years, the MGA is now able to maintain 3 MG clinics, 13 established support groups in the Midwest region, a surplus of events, and countless resources so that those impacted by MG are cared for and supported. That calls for a celebration.
Help us turn 2020 around by rejoicing in such a momentous occasion in MGA history. How has the MGA impacted your MG experience? Throw on your party hats and let us know how the MGA has supported you throughout your MG journey. Cheers to 60 years!
#MGA #MyastheniaGravisAssociation #MGADigest #MGStrong #MyastheniaGravis #IHaveHeardOfMG #ChronicIllness #RareDisease #AutoimmuneDisease #NeuromuscularDisease #60thBirthday
This blog post was written by Meridith O'Connor, St. Louis Program Coordinator of the Myasthenia Gravis Association.