This week marks five years as a narcolepsy advocate. When I published my first REM Runner blog post, I “came out” publicly after two years of hush-hush. I didn’t know where this would lead me, but every fiber in me ached to speak up and make change.

Once I began,  I watched myself devote time and energy I didn’t know I had. The momentum was incredible. It’s been exhilarating, exhausting, serendipitous, lonely, empowering, maddening and meaningful beyond words. I dare say, I’ve accomplished more in these five years than I ever imagined for my lifetime.

A few thoughts for young advocates:

• I started from scratch and you can too. Don’t listen to nay-sayers and dream-squashers.
• For every success, I’ve had two let-downs. Keep going. 
• You cannot please everyone. You must please yourself. Live with integrity and without jealousy.

Highlights from the past year:

• Project Sleep received 501(c)(3) status and launched our new website.
• Working with Honda to remove offensive ad and creating narcolepsy PSA for TV.
• 7 presentations across the country – my favorites were UCLA Med School & Disruptive Innovations Conference.
• NARCOLEPSY: NOT ALONE has a beautiful new website & over 600 campaign t-shirts are being worn around the world.

Looking forward to the year ahead:

• My keynote presentation in Australia. Excited to meet my Aussie friends!
• Building Project Sleep’s fantastic momentum – including the SLEEP WALK event series.
• Making time for myself – yoga, running and relaxation.

I am so thankful for each and every supporter and reader. To those that have been following since the beginning, you hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for making the last five – the best five!