Racquel's NORD 7,000 Mile Rare Movement: Rise Up for Rarity

2017 was a big year for me–new career, new job, new medical diagnoses. As my education to become a Physician Assistant came to a close and the biggest exam of my life approached, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. While the earlier part of 2017 was full of lab work, procedures, imaging, medications, and doctors appointments, the latter was full of a drive to live a life I love, and live it powerfully. While working in the Emergency Department in The City of Brotherly Love has been full of rewarding moments, taking a stand and becoming an advocate for rare diseases has become increasingly important to me. Join me, move your bodies, and support these thousands of diseases!

This February, I am joining NORD’s Rare Movement Campaign to raise awareness for rare diseases. Together, participants aim to move a total of 7,000 miles of donor-supported movement by Rare Disease Day on February 28th. There are 7,000 known rare diseases, 95% of them have no treatment. Help NORD continue to support the 30 million Americans affected by rare diseases through patient assistance and support programs, research grants, advocacy and educational initiatives.

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