Something’s not right, I thought to myself as I rushed to find a seat. I felt my stomach drop and my chest become cold as I tried to process why half of my face seemed to suddenly stop working. Having just graduated from nursing school, I was equipped with enough medical knowledge to know something was seriously wrong. However, nothing in this world could have prepared me for the months that followed. Within a few short weeks, I became a dependent shell of the person I was known to be. My constellation of symptoms was as scary to me as the countless providers that I encountered who told me ‘it’s all in my head.’ Yet, I continued to have daily seizures, lack musculoskeletal control, and even the ability to form a simple syllable. As the weeks passed, my symptoms worsened, and my fear grew as I continued to seek answers while my body deteriorated. This is where my chronic boss story starts. Getting diagnosed with a rare and under-researched disease was the hardest thing I have ever done. I had to advocate for myself, even though I could barely speak, and I still have to fight for my patient rights today. I am at an advantage, being a registered nurse with a family of healthcare professionals. However, I became heart-broken with the realization that there are many patients out there without answers nor treatment. In efforts to connect with others with autoimmune encephalitis and start my journey of advocating for others, I joined a nonprofit support group called HESA (Hashimoto’s Encephalopathy/SREAT & Seronegative Autoimmune Encephalitis Alliance). I am now on the board as a volunteer and social media manager. I answer questions from patients, raise awareness on public platforms, write blog posts, and fundraise for research and seminars. I am involved in writing the new book: Understanding Hashimoto’s Encephalopathy. I have assisted in research, physician interviews, treatment and insurance education. My story will be shared in this book as a resource for patients and caregivers. I intend on writing my own book that truly embodies what it’s like to have an inflamed brain, but for now I have a published health blog (www.surrealserendipity.com). I named my blog based on this surreal experience that may not seem serendipitous, but I make the choice every day to view it that way. With my education and deepened empathy, I feel that my purpose is to give others a fighting chance. Outside of working directly with patients, I also started my own Mary Kay business as an independent consultant. Through this platform, I share my story and allow women to open up about theirs. I have also utilized my talent for art during this time of healing. I am making an anatomy coloring book, unique communication board, and health journal specifically for those with chronic illness. Today, I am a healing, strong, and capable young woman with a promising life ahead of me. I am pursing a Master of Science in Nursing and intend on using this continued education to get in the field of research, specifically for rare autoimmune diseases, and nursing education to shape the future of healthcare. I have been given this second chance at a quality life – my new dream is to ensure others have that chance as well.