BLOGS

Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Raregivers100: Honoring 100 Changemakers in Rare and Chronic Disease

Meet the Raregivers100, a global tribute to 100 rare disease changemakers; individuals who are shaping the future of rare and chronic disease awareness, advocacy, and caregiving. From globally recognized voices to grassroots changemakers, these honorees are helping bring visibility, dignity, and action to communities too often left in the shadows.

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Are You Feeling Spread Thin?

Feeling spread thin was a common theme in our group this week. If you are caring for a spouse or child with a Rare disease, you likely know what it feels like when everyone needs something from you at once.

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

What Is Sustainable Caregiving?

Caregiving is not a sprint—it's a long journey. If you are caring for someone with a Rare or chronic disease, sustainability isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. The truth is that you can't continue giving if your cup is empty

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Finding Your Way After Caregiving

What is it like to step into a new identity after the loss of a loved one you have cared for over many years? In our support group this week, we explored what can support you through this challenging time, what can make it difficult, and how to find your way when caregiving has been such a central part of your life.

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Holding Space for the Hard Things

Communicating about the hard things is a challenge many caregivers of loved ones with Rare diseases face and misunderstandings are common. It can be easy to take things personally and let frustration, fear, or sadness take over.

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Embracing The Unknown

For caregivers of loved ones living with a rare disease, grief is often a continuous companion. This week in our support group, we explored what it means to lean into anticipatory grief. Making room for difficult emotions takes courage. It asks us to turn toward what we would rather avoid and acknowledge realities that can feel overwhelming. In Western culture, we often avoid conversations about death and aging, yet contemplating the mortality of a loved one can bring our own mortality into sharp focus.

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

The Blossoming of True Friendship – Starting With Yourself

This week in our support group, we reflected on what it means to be a true friend. Together, we defined a true friend as someone who can meet you with a quiet mind and an open heart. As caregivers navigating the uncertainty of Rare or chronic illness, it is important to remember that the first person you must learn to be a true friend to is yourself

Read More
Cristol O'Loughlin Cristol O'Loughlin

Put Your Feet Up and Relax

As a caregiver navigating the world of Rare disease and a complex medical lifestyle, the first step toward caring for yourself is recognizing that you have needs too. Your needs matter.

Read More
Group of people in white t-shirts standing outdoors on a hiking trail, with hills and greenery in the background.

STAY IN TOUCH

Sign up & receive updates about our community!