Remembering What Was Forgotten

The Rise and Fall of the Forgotten

The human brain is a complex and fascinating organ, capable of remembering and forgetting an endless amount of information. Unfortunately, some things are forgotten more quickly than others. Memories of places we visited, experiences we had, and people we met in passing can quickly be erased by the constant barrage of new information entering our minds. One group of people, however, seems to have been all but forgotten by society: those living with rare diseases.

The Struggles of the Forgotten

There are over 7,000 rare diseases, affecting nearly 30 million Americans alone. Despite this large number, many of these diseases receive little to no attention from the medical community, pharmaceutical companies, or society as a whole. Without funding and research, treatments and cures are unlikely to be discovered. Patients with rare diseases often struggle to find a diagnosis, let alone a treatment plan. They are forgotten by the healthcare system, left to navigate through a complicated and often overwhelming process on their own.

Remembering the Forgotten

The forgotten need our help. Advocacy groups, such as Global Genes and the National Organization for Rare Disorders, work tirelessly to support patients, fund research, and raise awareness. The more attention these diseases receive, the more likely it is that treatments and cures will be found. Medical professionals can help by learning more about rare diseases and staying current with the latest research. The media can help by sharing stories of those affected by rare diseases, educating the public, and raising awareness. Each of us can help by becoming a voice for the forgotten, spreading awareness, and supporting those affected by rare diseases.

We must remember what was forgotten. We must bring attention to the rare diseases that have been neglected for far too long. Patients with rare diseases deserve access to appropriate care and treatment. We have the power to make that happen. By working together, we can ensure that the forgotten are no longer ignored, but rather remembered and cared for.