On November 18th, 2025, I had the honor of serving as a panelist at the MG Brunch & Learn held at the Lou Walker Senior Center. It was a beautiful gathering of community, courage, and conversation. I wanted to share a brief recap with my subscribers. The entire panel was professionally recorded. As soon as I receive the video, I’ll share it with you all. Check out my Instagram for clips that my family recorded.
Stepping Into the Space
I walked in feeling grateful and overwhelmed by the number of people. I was blown away at the decorations, including the signs below that educated people on Myasthenia Gravis. Overall, the energy in the room felt receptive and warm.
“Community doesn’t just gather, it rises.”
— Ashley’s Anatomy
Before the Mics Turned On
The Brunch & Learn was made possible through a collaboration between UCB and NOWINCLUDED. NOWINCLUDED is a community-driven platform created by Acclinate Inc. that focuses on empowering underrepresented communities to take action toward better health. They regularly host events like this MG Brunch & Learn to educate, connect, and raise awareness. The platform also offers helpful resources for Myasthenia Gravis and many other conditions. Feel free to explore their site for more information. Check out their site.
The Quiet Before the Event Began
Before the event began, the panelists waited together in a separate room, where we were given a meal and spent the time getting to know each other. Below, you’ll see a photo of me wearing a KN95 mask indoors, along with a quick selfie I took while enjoying my food outside in the fresh air.
The Dialogue Begins
The event was moderated by Dr. Raquel Hammonds, who guided the conversation with warmth and intention. The panel also featured two other incredible voices: Dr. Suad Khalil, a neurologist at the University of Michigan who treats pediatric MG patients, and Jesse Benjamin, a fellow MG patient and long-time advocate with more than a decade of experience. To open the discussion, Dr. Hammonds asked Dr. Khalil to explain Myasthenia Gravis in the simplest terms for those new to the condition. From there, Jesse and I shared our lived experience with MG, answering questions about our diagnosis journeys, how long it took to get answers, the symptoms we faced, and the advice we’d offer to anyone newly navigating life with MG. The session ended with questions from attendees.
Moments of Connection
After an amazing conversation, we all took pictures, of course. It was such a pleasure meeting other people who are passionate about advocacy and community—huge shout-out to the event organizers and everyone involved in making it such a wonderful experience. I appreciate the opportunity and platform to share my journey with MG.
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