According to Apfed, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a RARE DISEASE, affects 1 in 2,000 people. So, in the city of Ann Arbor, MI, where there are approximately 121,000 people living, we can hypothesize that there could be 60 people, who have eoe, walking through that college town of only 28.7 square miles.

That is the most math I have done in quite a while, please don’t expect that of me again.

So what is my point with all of this?

My dudes (yes, I talk like this in real life and yupper, I am nearly 40), we’re not alone. None of us are. Last week, I received a message through one of my social media platforms. It made my day, that someone came to me with questions. This young lady was freshly diagnosed and, rightly so, was distressed. It was a relief to her to find our story and to find someone else with this link. Hank may be rare, but he isn’t the only one in the neighborhood! So, how do we go about finding others in our same boat?

Social Media: Through Instagram, you can find other families like mine. Families that document their daily lives and struggles, triumphs and wins. Head over to Facebook and not only can you also find us, you can join support boards that cover the world, your state or possibly your county, province or city. And if you can’t, you can start your own! Connect with these families, engage in conversation, ask questions. I have found that most people will answer your questions and lend support. So, ask away!

APFED.com: I love this group, here, you can find local, volunteer-led support groups. This page will also connect you with their online support group.

Your doctor: Who better to know of your local resources than the men and women who are helping you navigate this situation? Ask there for suggestions as well. The bonus here, is that they may be able to recommend a therapist for better one on one support.

I, personally, respond to all (appropriate) questions that are sent to me and usually have the time to dedicate for a conversation. I am not an expert and I don’t sugar coat our experiences. But I am also available for an extra shoulder.