Rare Disease Patients as Changemakers in Medicine: Rebecca Salky, Senior Clinical Research Coordinator for the Neuroimmunology Clinic & Research Lab at Massachusetts General Hospital

You are in for a dose of inspiration in this episode of Raise the Line as we introduce you to a rare disease patient who was a leading force in establishing the diagnosis for her own condition, who played a key role in launching the first phase three clinical trials for it, and who is now coordinating research into the disease and related disorders at one of the nation's top hospitals. Rebecca Salky, RN, was first afflicted at the age of four with MOGAD, an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that can cause paralysis, vision loss and seizures. In this fascinating conversation with host Lindsey Smith, Rebecca describes her long and challenging journey with MOGAD, her work at the Neuroimmunology Clinic and Research Lab at Massachusetts General Hospital, and the importance of finding a MOGAD community in her early twenties. “There's a sense of power and security when you have others on your side. You're not alone in this journey of the rare disease,” she explains. Be sure to stay tuned to learn about Rebecca’s work in patient advocacy, her experience as a nurse, and the three things she thinks are missing in the care of rare disease patients as our Year of the Zebra series continues. Mentioned in this episode: The MOG Project Neuroimmunology Clinic & Research Lab at Mass General If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast