When I was first diagnosed with PNH, I couldn’t help but think of the long-term big picture. How was this going to affect me as I got older? What did this mean for my future? These questions haunted me, but as I learned more about PNH and how science has advanced, I was more hopeful for the future.

I was determined not to let this disease force me to settle in life. I am currently 28 years old, and I still have all the goals I had before my diagnosis – climbing a mountain, traveling the world, and reaching new career milestones. I knew I might not accomplish all those things and that my goals might need to change, but even to attempt them, I had to be mentally strong, positive, and understanding of my limitations.

I looked to my doctor to better understand certain limitations I had and to discuss where it might make sense to push them and set new limits for myself.

Each goal and aspiration I set out to accomplish can’t happen overnight. I must take one step at a time. By taking things one day at a time and feeling more comfortable with my surroundings, I can take steps in the right direction. My goal is to be mentally strong and only exert energy when needed. I don’t have to go to every event or push my body when I’m feeling overly fatigued. I feel comfortable saying no and explaining why to my friends and family so they can better understand my journey.

To achieve my bigger goals, I have to say “yes” to more things that define who I am and bring me happiness. It was after I started saying “yes” to the small things like social events and exercise classes with a friend that I realized that not only could I reach the goals I set for myself before my diagnosis, but I could likely surpass them. They might be harder to accomplish because of my PNH, and I know I need to check my plans with my doctor, but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible.

I know now that my positive outlook and determination will keep me from settling for a life that’s just okay. What’s going to motivate you to keep pushing?