My Journey: From Patient #1 to FDA Approval
In December 2019, I became Patient #1 in the groundbreaking TransCon PTH clinical trial. This wasn't just a medical milestone — it was a turning point in my life. After years of struggling with hypoparathyroidism, I finally had hope.
My participation in this trial led to the FDA approval of Yorvipath, a medication that has transformed the lives of thousands of patients. But more importantly, it taught me the power of advocacy and the importance of sharing our stories.
My children, Drew (26, Chiropractor) and Harrison (24, Sports Director), are my inspiration and reason why I fight each day to raise awareness and support for the hypoparathyroidism community.
Through writing, speaking, and community building, I transform personal adversity into meaningful advocacy for those living with hypoparathyroidism.
Drew & Harrison
My reasons why I fight each day
About Bari
My name is Bari Gordon Vapnek. I was born in New York and relocated to Florida in 1995 after graduating from the University of Delaware with a BS in Business Administration. 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.
My Timeline
Graves' Disease Diagnosis
Diagnosed with Graves' disease, an autoimmune thyroid condition. This was the beginning of a medical journey that would change my life forever.
Post-Surgical Hypoparathyroidism
Following thyroid surgery, diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism. The parathyroid glands were damaged during surgery, beginning a lifelong journey of managing calcium levels.
Drew Is Born
My daughter Drew is born. She would grow up to become a Chiropractor and one of my greatest sources of strength and inspiration.
Watch VideoHarrison Is Born
My son Harrison is born. He would grow up to become a Sports Director and my other reason to fight each day.
Watch VideoNatPara Treatment
Began treatment with NatPara (natpara), a parathyroid hormone replacement therapy. A period of hope and learning about new treatment options for hypoparathyroidism.
Life-Altering Calcium Crash
A life-altering calcium crash changed everything. This terrifying experience transformed my understanding of the condition and fueled my determination to advocate for the hypopara community.
First Published
My first article was published, marking the beginning of my writing career as a patient advocate. Sharing my story publicly for the first time.
Patient #1 — TransCon PTH Clinical Trial
Became Patient #1 in the groundbreaking TransCon PTH clinical trial at Columbia University. This wasn't just a medical milestone — it was a turning point in my life. After years of struggling, I finally had hope.
Yorvipath FDA Approval
My participation in the TransCon PTH trial led to the FDA approval of Yorvipath, a medication that has transformed the lives of thousands of patients. It taught me the power of advocacy and sharing our stories.
Brave Butterfly Column Launches
Started writing the 'Brave Butterfly' column for Hypoparathyroidism News, sharing insights, hope, and connecting with patients worldwide through regular columns.
Continued Advocacy
Expanding advocacy through speaking engagements, this website, the Bridge Battery research tool, and connecting with patients across the globe. Anything is possible!
Read My Columns
Follow my ongoing journey through the Brave Butterfly column on Hypoparathyroidism News.