🌍 World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day is June 1, 2026 - Join us in raising awareness! Learn More
COLUMNIST CREATOR COLLABORATOR ADVOCATE SPEAKER MOVEMENT MAKER COLUMNIST CREATOR COLLABORATOR ADVOCATE SPEAKER MOVEMENT MAKER COLUMNIST CREATOR COLLABORATOR ADVOCATE SPEAKER MOVEMENT MAKER
Bari Vapnek skydiving — Courage to Take Flight
Hypoparathyroidism Advocate & Columnist

Brave Butterfly Bari

Courage to Take Flight

Expert resources on hypopara management, calcium crash recovery, Yorvipath treatment, clinical trials & patient advocacy.
Anything is possible! You are not alone on this journey.

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My Why

Everything I do in this fight against hypoparathyroidism is for my children. They are my motivation, my strength, and the reason I never give up. When the bad days come — and they do — I look at their faces and remember why this movement matters.

This is bigger than me. This is about every parent with hypopara who wants to be there for their kids. Every patient who deserves better treatment. Every family that shouldn't have to face this alone.

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Bari's children — My Why

World Hypoparathyroidism Day

June 1st — Join the movement. Raise awareness.

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Bari at a 49ers game — drawing parallels between athletes and hypopara patients

Athletes & Advocacy

In sports, we discover one of life's greatest lessons: the courage to overcome adversity and rise stronger each time we fall. I draw parallels between athletes and hypopara patients — we both fight through pain, push past limits, and never give up.

From Jayson Tatum's comeback to the resilience of Olympic gold medalists, the spirit of competition mirrors our daily battle with hypoparathyroidism. Every good day is a win. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.

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Bari Vapnek — Hypoparathyroidism Columnist

About Bari

As a columnist for Hypoparathyroidism News, I believe that adversity is an opportunity for greatness. My life is proof that life is too short to be anything but grateful.

I'm a proud mother to two incredible children who are my reasons why I fight each day. My daughter Drew, 26, is a Chiropractor at Lake Pointe Wellness in Acworth, Georgia, and my son Harrison, 24, is a sports director at KALB-TV in Central Louisiana.

Through writing, speaking, and community building, I transform personal adversity into meaningful advocacy for those living with hypoparathyroidism.

Life Before & After a Calcium Crash

A life-altering calcium crash changed everything. Read about the experience that transformed my advocacy journey and learn how to protect yourself.

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Natural Nutrition

Seasonal Wellness

Although we need our calcium and vitamin D supplements, incorporating seasonal, nutrient-rich foods into our diet can support overall wellness. Explore recipes and nutrition tips tailored for the hypopara community.

Resources & Links

Trusted organizations and resources for the hypoparathyroidism community.

Holistic Health

Focus on mind, body, and spirit. Complementary approaches that may support your hypopara journey.

Acupuncture

Traditional practice that may help with pain, stress, and nerve function

Chiropractic

Spinal alignment and musculoskeletal support

Functional Medicine

Root-cause approach to chronic conditions

Nutritionist

Personalized dietary guidance for calcium management

Yoga Nidra

Deep relaxation and restorative meditation practice

My Family & My Why

The people who inspire me every day to keep fighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about hypoparathyroidism, advocacy, and how you can get involved.

Dancing butterflies representing the hypopara community — inclusive, joyful, and resilient

We are all in this together. Every butterfly matters.

What the Community Says

"Reading about Bari's experience as Patient #1 in the clinical trial inspired me to never give up on finding better treatment options. Her courage is contagious."

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