Rare disease advocate Mackenzie Abramson spent more than 20 years searching for her own diagnosis, facing intense medical gaslighting along the way. She endured 30 surgeries, a mental health crisis, and endless battles to be heard and taken seriously by the medical establishment.

Yet Mackenzie refused to be dismissed. She earned her master's in public health and went on to work on global health initiatives in Rwanda, Egypt, and on the COVID-19 response in the U.S. Turning her pain into purpose, Mackenzie now works at Global Genes, supporting the rare disease community.

In this candid and inspiring conversation, Mackenzie shares her odyssey from medical disbelief to rare disease empowerment. She discusses the trauma of gaslighting, the importance of mental health advocacy, and how she manages to remain hopeful even in the face of immense challenges. Mackenzie's story is a testament to the power of unchosen resilience and the transformative impact one person can have.

Key Takeaways:

• You are the expert on your own health - trust your instincts and speak up for yourself
• Don't wait to build your mental health toolbox, even before you think you need it
• Two truths can coexist - you can feel gratitude and feel like "this sucks" at the same time
• Finding your community is crucial, but you must also be willing to advocate for yourself
• Resilience can be unchosen, but it can also empower you to do things you never imagined

Learn more about Mackenzie:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Linktree 

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Music credit: Limitless by Bells