I have hyperadrenergic postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome or hPOTS, a disorder of the autonomic nervous system as well as other autoimmune disorders. I can’t walk or stand for long and can’t physically attend the march because my heart and brain don’t communicate correctly and because of numerous other issues that the physical effort would cause to happen to my body.  I’m thankful for the opportunity to participate in this march virtually. I want to do what I can to ensure that the rights of those with disabilities remain intact and to make a statement that we are a diverse group that contributes much to the world.  Now more than ever, I think we need to express support of equal opportunity and respect for or all, and to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.

I’m a working woman currently in the education field but have also been a systems analyst and professional musician. Things that are important to me include:  my family, my friends, raising awareness of dysautonomia and other chronic illnesses and disabilities, human rights, animal rights, and global warming.  I have not been much of a political activist in the past but recent events have convinced me of the relevance of the quote “the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing”.