Thomas's Story

I was diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism at 52, after years of misdiagnosis and frustration. By that time, I was also managing type 2 diabetes and hypertension. I felt like my body was falling apart, and I was angry about it. I had worked hard my whole life, and I expected to enjoy my retirement, not spend it managing multiple chronic conditions.

The first few years after my diagnosis were dark. I felt isolated and depressed. My doctors were helpful, but they couldn't address the emotional and psychological impact of managing multiple conditions simultaneously. I withdrew from friends and activities I loved because I felt like I was a burden.

Everything changed when my daughter introduced me to Bari's work. She thought it might help me understand hypoparathyroidism better. What I found was so much more—I found a community of people who understood not just the medical side of chronic illness, but the emotional and spiritual side too.

Bari's honesty about her own struggles gave me permission to acknowledge mine. Her emphasis on finding joy and purpose despite chronic illness resonated deeply with me. She showed me that having multiple conditions doesn't mean my life is over—it just means I need to approach it differently.

Through Bari's community, I connected with other older adults managing chronic conditions. We share strategies, yes, but more importantly, we share our lives. We celebrate small victories, support each other through setbacks, and remind each other that we still have value and purpose.

Now, six years into my hypoparathyroidism diagnosis, I'm in a completely different place emotionally and spiritually. I've retired, and instead of feeling like my life is over, I'm mentoring newly diagnosed patients in Bari's community. I'm helping others navigate the journey I've been on. I've found purpose in my second act, and I'm grateful every day for Bari's advocacy work that made this possible.