A bit about me...
Born in Portugal, naturally from Angola, raised in the UK.
That should give you a sneak peak into my less-than-conventional life.
Change is something I've always embraced.
This mindset, however, was truly tested when I was diagnosed with narcolepsy and cataplexy in January 2018.
It took me two full years to even start the journey to understand the implications this condition would have on my life, my plans, and my dreams.
The road to acceptance was paved thanks to this blog.
Sharing my story with the world allowed me to redirect my focus and efforts on helping others at a time when I could not help myself.
This is why I now urge everyone, with or without narcolepsy, to share their story when their time is right, because there's enormous power in empowering others.
My "Why?"
My "why" for wanting to work in the narcolepsy community is deeply rooted in my belief in the transformative power of shared experiences. I believe that by sharing my own journey with narcolepsy, I can help to change the narrative for others who are struggling with the same condition.
I am driven by the understanding that narcolepsy is not just a personal battle, but a communal one. It's a condition that affects not only the individual, but also their families, friends, and communities. By raising awareness and advocating for better understanding and treatment, I hope to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by narcolepsy.
My motivation lies in the conviction that every story matters and that every shared experience can be a stepping stone towards a better future. Advocacy isn't about focusing on our own struggles, it's about using our voice to effect change and pave the way for others. By sharing our stories, we can help to shape a more compassionate and understanding society, one where those with narcolepsy are not defined by their condition, but by their strength and resilience.
In essence, my "why" is to create a world where every person with narcolepsy feels seen, heard, and understood. A world where their stories are not just told, but are used as a catalyst for change.