MTV True Life “I Have Narcolepsy” Premieres Tuesday, October 18th
MTV has not released footage in advance, but I’m delighted to have met a few of the individuals featured on the show – Katy, Robby and Julie. They are so inspiring and I can’t wait to cheer them on!
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| REM Runner Julie Flygare with MTV True Life I Have Narcolepsy’s Katy and Robby at Wake Up Nashville |
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| Julie Flygare with MTV True Life I Have Narcolepsy’s Julie at Narcolepsy Network Conference 2011 |
Also, I met MTV True Life “I Have Narcolepsy” producer recently at the Wake Up Nashville fundraiser. I spoke with this MTV producer about the need for greater narcolepsy awareness in America. He struck me as genuine and empathetic. This is his job, but I could tell he’d become personally invested. He “got it” – which is so invaluable.
As a person dedicated to spreading truthful information about narcolepsy – I am so thankful to MTV for taking this project on. I am prepared that this show may not capture the entire experience of living with narcolepsy, given the time restraints and sensationalistic nature of the entertainment industry.
However, this show is the beginning of a much greater conversation in our society. Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder affecting 1 in every 2,000 people (200,000 Americans), yet it is largely unknown in the public eye.
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| Chatting with MTV True Life I Have Narcolepsy’s Julie after my advocacy presentation at NN Conference 2011 |
Lastly, no matter how you feel about the show, please be kind when commenting online about to those featured on this show. These young adults have bravely opened their private lives to raise awareness about narcolepsy. They have feelings, challenges and dreams of their own. Remember – whatever you say will be permanently on the internet and they may read it.
I look forward to continuing the conversation – Click here to read my Review.
I am 38, and diagnosed 3 years ago…although I am pretty sure I have had both for about 20 years. This episode was so great. I made my boyfriend watch it…he cried. He always made fun of me and doubted that it was even real. Thanks MTV, Julie, and Katy!
Just heard about this and I cannot wait to see it!
This is the first 14 minutes :
http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/703529/living-with-narcolepsy.jhtml
I am 23 and I was diagnosed with narcolepsy when I was 16 years old when I started sleeping through most of my high school classes. I went to a sleep center and they did a sleep study on me and they discovered I had it. I’ve had some rough patches with this disorder at times it’s rough they started me on Provigil because I wanted something less addicting. It has worked good I started with 1/2 tablet a day then increased to 1 tablet a day and now I am currently at 2 tablet a day. I am hoping I won’t need anything stronger. It takes a lot to deal with this disorder but with a good support system I have been ok I have a boyfriend and family that are very supportive and I consider myself blessed that my narcolepsy doesn’t affect me driving and living my life like I want to.
Hi Jasmine,
Thank you for your great comment. I’m so sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with narcolepsy at the young age of 16, but it’s inspiring to hear that you are coping well with a good support system!
It’s good to be cautious with medications, for sure. I’m so glad to hear that you’ve worked with your doctor to find a dosage that works well for you.
Sending smiles and wakefulness your way,
Julie