"One Thousand Flaming Swords" – a Column by Claire Richmond

candy, joy, medical gaslighting, voting, flare, attacks, twice a month, pain, life

Claire hopes speaking her truth builds connections and generates hope. At 32, she was diagnosed with acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) after a 19-year search for answers. As severe, unexplained pain became a focal point of life, she exiled her body to protect her mind. Through laughter and challenges, “One Thousand Flaming Swords” navigates daily life with AHP, as Claire rebuilds the bridge between her physical and mental being.

How I Created a Place to Feel Safe When I’m Sick

My favorite room in our home is the three-seasons front porch. It overlooks the west side of our house, where, this summer, we planted a pollinator garden. Nine months out of the year, this is where you’ll find me writing, meditating, or reading. Lenny will perch on the…

The Good Days Between the Hard Ones With Acute Porphyria

I’ve heard people describe living with a chronic illness like acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) as a full-time job. But it requires much more than 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Between medication schedules, doctor appointments, insurance issues, advocacy work, and the healthy behaviors to prevent flare-ups or…

How Writing Can Change the World

Intentional or not, most of my writing happens in bed. It’s where I reflect on my day, journal my meditations, feel inspired by the words of others, and dissect my dreams. The world begins in my bed. Adorned with luxury cotton sheets and supportive pillows, it’s where I rest. On…