what's a gal like you doing in a place like this?
Hello, this is Emily, I'm just popping by to say hello. I used to be on the kids board, but I figured...I'm 21 now...maybe that means I've graduated and get to be on both boards?! Anyway, I'm graduating from NYU for real this May, and it's such a big transition for me, and I guess coming upon a time of change in your life makes you think about the past. To make a long story short, I've been thinking a lot, and I wanted to say thank you to everyone involved in the uveitis support group. Thankfully my eyes have stayed quiet for the past few years with no flare-ups (knock on wood). But you have made such a huge impact on my life. Having a place to vent and share my experiences, my victories and not-so-victorious moments. We all know what a roller-coaster ride uveitis can be. I sincerely don't think I would be the same had I not been a part of this community of fantastic, brave people.
So wonderful to hear your eyes have been quiet the last few years, and congratulations on your nearing graduation! Congratulations, the world is lucky to have a young person as wise as you seem to be, getting ready to start your life in a new career! Have some fun too though.
Re: what's a gal like you doing in a place like this?
Hi Em. I am SO glad to hear from you. But, really, it isn't possible that you are graduating ALREADY from NYU! Can't be true!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Did you end up majoring in art, or theatre, or both, or neither. What are your plans?
Please say hello to your folks for me, too, would you. And a big THANK YOU for all of YOUR contributions to this community.
For those of you who are just meeting Emily, she was one of our first members of the Kids Club, then became one of its moderators. She also contributed to the development of the school brochure (scroll down to the INDEX and click on KIDS VIEW), with both art work for the cover, and a section describing what it is like from the child's perspective to have uveitis.
Re: what's a gal like you doing in a place like this?
Hi Emily,
Now it is time for me to thank you for all of your wonderful love, support and guidance for my daughter when she was having such a rough go of it. Even though she was pretty young when she joined the kids club, you always listened to her and responded. Just knowing that she had someone to talk to (along with the other kids in the group) made everything o.k. and easier to deal with.
Congratulations on your accomplishments! I hope we see you again during one of the uveitis gatherings. I am hoping to attend the next walk.
Re: what's a gal like you doing in a place like this?
Haha Liz, don't worry, time hasn't gone by THAT fast - I actually am graduating a year early.
I majored in Dramatic Literature, minored in Creative Writing, and came just one course short of a minor in Psychology. I've been keeping busy - trying to be a writer, working as an autism tutor, leading a meditation group at NYU, seeing as much theatre as my brain (and bank account) can tolerate, studied abroad in London last semester...
As far as what the future holds...I'm not sure yet. Hopefully something in theatre, writing, and/or working with kids. Considering maybe Drama Therapy/Child Life, but I also love writing and directing, so I don't really know yet. I'm taking a year off between college and grad school to try and figure things out. In the mean time I'll hopefully find some sort of internship or a job and keep up with my writing. Wouldn't it be something if I ended up as a drama therapist for kids with autoimmune disorders?
I am applying for a couple jobs in Boston so I may get to see you guys sooner than you think!
-Emily
ps - Liz can you e-mail me the password for the kids' page? I would like to say hello to everyone there. Do you have my NYU e-mail address? I can e-mail it to you if you don't have it.
Re: what's a gal like you doing in a place like this?
Emily,
How wonderful that you've reached so many goals in life already. It's great to hear that you never let uveitis get in the way of reaching those goals. You truly are an inspiration both to us adults and the children who need to read these kinds of stories too.
I remember when we were beginning this online support group and you so bravely put yourself out there to help out with the "Kid's" section. I know Liz and the Foster's are eternally grateful for that. I wanted to personally thank you too.
What great news that your uveitis is under control and you are experiencing remission. I wish you many more years of flare-free living! Much luck in your future endeavors. Please pop in now and then and keep us updated on your adventures.