#Ribbon Rare Disease

[noisycowboyglitter]

Celebrate Rare Disease Day with Butterfly Heart and Zebra Ribbon Themes

Ribbon Rare Disease Awareness campaigns utilize specially designed ribbons to draw attention to a variety of uncommon medical conditions that often receive less public recognition and research funding. These ribbons serve as powerful symbols, uniting patients,

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families, healthcare professionals, and advocates in their efforts to increase understanding and support for rare diseases.

Each rare disease typically has its own unique ribbon color or pattern, helping to distinguish and highlight specific conditions. For example, the zebra-striped ribbon represents rare diseases as a whole, while a light blue ribbon might signify Addison's disease, or a green ribbon with a butterfly might represent mitochondrial disease.

These awareness ribbons are used in various ways:

Worn as pins or badges

Incorporated into social media profiles and campaigns

Featured on promotional materials and educational resources

Used in fundraising events and charity walks

The primary goals of Rare Disease Awareness campaigns include:

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Educating the public about the challenges faced by those with rare diseases

Advocating for increased research funding

Improving diagnosis rates and treatment options

Fostering a sense of community among affected individuals and their families

Encouraging policymakers to address the unique needs of the rare disease community

By wearing or displaying these ribbons, supporters help spark conversations and raise vital awareness for conditions that might otherwise remain invisible to much of society.

"Butterfly Heart Believe Zebra" is a unique combination of symbols often associated with rare disease awareness and personal transformation. The butterfly represents change and hope, while the heart symbolizes love and support. "Believe" encourages faith and perseverance in the face of challenges.

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The zebra is particularly significant in the rare disease community, stemming from the medical phrase, "When you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras." This reminds doctors to consider common diagnoses before rare ones. However, for those with rare diseases, the zebra has become a symbol of uniqueness and the importance of looking beyond the obvious.

This collection of symbols is often found on awareness merchandise like t-shirts, pins, or posters. It resonates with individuals affected by rare diseases, their families, and advocates, serving as a reminder of strength, community, and the ongoing journey towards recognition and improved care.

Butterfly Gifts for Mum offer a delightful way to show appreciation with a touch of natural elegance. These presents often feature charming butterfly motifs, symbolizing transformation and beauty. Options range from butterfly-themed jewelry like necklaces or brooches to home decor items such as cushions or wall art. For

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garden-loving mums, consider butterfly feeders or plants that attract these graceful creatures. Personalized gifts like photo frames or mugs adorned with butterflies add a sentimental touch. These thoughtful presents celebrate the nurturing and transformative role of mothers, making them perfect for birthdays, Mother's Day, or just because.

[sugarphoenixlovesfanfic]

× . bite . ×

synopsis: Dan Heng is befallen with a temporary illness that turns him into a vampire for a week. The only way to temporarily alleviate him of his bloodlust is to let him drink off of you, but as his wife can you convince him to do so? tags: f!reader, vampire Dan Heng, reader is a bit of a masochist, no smut, 1.5k words a/n: tagging @coupsworth because you suggested I write about dan heng being a vampire in this post, thank you!

ao3 link here!

[Sanguinary bats:

[A type of mammal that loves to feast on the blood of living mammals. It transmits a disease via its bites, Vampyroa, which is extremely effective on humanoid species. The disease usually takes place a week after the bite is made, and the affected grows sharp fangs and an unnatural bloodlust. There is no immediate cure for Vampyroa, however, Vampyroa often goes away after about a week within experiencing symptoms. Those who have caught the disease are advised to stay in rooms of their own, and to only consume water and red meat. Giving in to their bloodlust is ill-advised, yet drinking blood from another humanoid species does not transmit the disease or have any consequences apart from those that come with general exposure to foreign blood/blood loss on the victim’s side. In fact, the imbibing of another’s blood will sate the “vampyr” for up to a day.]

You gently push open the door to Dan Heng’s room.

It has been a week since the bat attack, and although the Astral Express crew had been prepared not to let any of the bats come into close contact with them, Dan Heng unfortunately suffered a single bite. The rest of the week from then on was spent in anxious anticipation of the “turning,” as March 7th referred to it. Dan Heng, upset by her constant use of that word, shut himself into his room entirely, only allowing you, his wife, in.

Last night, the symptoms had started to appear, as Dan Heng woke you up in a cold sweat. When you flicked the lamp on, you saw that his eyes glowed a soft red, and his canine teeth were longer than usual. He told you to sleep in another room, not wanting to put you in danger of himself. You refused, but he insisted upon it, so you let yourself be moved into another room.

Now you turn up at his door with a steak, prepared rare, and a glass of water.

“Dan Heng,” you say. “It’s me.”

“Don’t come in,” you hear him command, his voice husky.

“Too late,” you say, pushing the door open further with your foot.

You thought you had prepared yourself for seeing him, but your eyes widen at the scene laid before you.

In the dark room, you can make out Dan Heng curling on his mattress, in Vidyadhara form. It’s clear that his turning is affecting his internal balance, causing him to shift into his dragon self. His clothes are shrugging off of him, as though he was trying to shed them, exposing his skin. His long dark hair curls around him in strands and ribbons, framing his face, as he gazes blankly towards the ceiling, panting.

His eyes meet yours, and you see something else within them.

“Here’s your breakfast, Dan,” you say, setting the meat and water on his desk.

“Thank you.” Dan Heng speaks as though he’s holding back. “Now leave.”

“…Okay.”

You leave his room before he has a chance to pounce on you.

After that, Dan Heng insists on having anyone else but you deliver his next meals, so you reluctantly let Welt and Himeko deliver his lunch and dinner. At night, you peek into his room.

“Don’t come in,” he says, sensing your presence. He’s sitting in bed with a book, a single dimly lit lamp giving him only enough light to read. The rest of the room is shrouded in darkness.

“I miss you,” you say. He pauses, putting his book down and looking up at you.

“I miss you too,” he says, his tone gentle and soft.

“Why won’t you let me come to you?” you ask.

“I don’t want to hurt you. I’d never forgive myself if I did.”

You linger in the doorway for a few moments more, then make up your mind.

“There’s nothing that can keep me from you,” you say, walking into the room towards him.

Immediately he grows tense, and you can see his fangs peeking through his lips.

“Don’t come any closer,” he says, but you get on the bed next to him and wrap your arms around his chest.

“I don’t care. I wanna be here.” You shove your face into his side, savoring his warmth.

He growls, a rumble deep in his chest you haven’t heard before. When you look up at him, his eyes and horns are glowing, his eyes red.

“If you stay at my side like this, I can’t guarantee I’ll be able to hold myself back, darling.”

“What will happen if you don’t?” you ask.

“To put it simply… your blood looks tantalizing.” Dan Heng licks his lips. You gulp, feeling blood rush to your cheeks. “It’s hard enough for me to hold myself back from everyone else, but you…you entice me like no other.”

Dan Heng breathes softly, his gaze on you heated. “You know…it might be better if you let me drink from you.” Immediately, he puts a hand on his mouth and turns away, as though horrified at what he said. “I’m sorry. Forget I said anything.”

“What do you mean?” you ask, intrigued.

“If I drink blood from someone,” Dan Heng says, his horns gently illuminating the walls a soft blue, “my hunger would be sated for about a day.”

There’s a pause as you consider this information.

“So, you’re saying that I would be helping you by letting you drink my blood.”

“Yes, but that doesn’t—”

“I’ll do it.”

Dan Heng widens his eyes at you, and you can see a dark hunger gleaming within them.

“You would?”

“Yes. It’s not like you need to drink all my blood, right…?”

“No, no, I don’t require that much.” Dan Heng reaches for you, then stops himself. “I can’t.”

“You can. I give you permission.” You take his hand in yours and he grips onto it almost painfully. “Besides, I’m a little curious.”

“Curious?”

“As to how it would feel.” You grin at him. “I mean. It would probably feel similar to all the other times you sank your teeth into my neck.”

Dan Heng is too focused on your neck to notice the innuendo you made. He runs his tongue against his fangs as he drills holes into you with his eyes, looking a bit dazed.

“So, you’ll let me?” he asks after a pause. “You’re sure about this?”

“Yes.” You bare your neck to him with a smile.

Dan Heng’s reaction is instant, one arm wrapping around your chest to pull you closer, while his other hand comes up to grip your neck, steadying it. He brings his face close to your neck, pauses for a moment, then begins licking it. You shudder at the sensation, preparing yourself for what comes next.

Then, delicately, ever so gently, he buries his face into your neck and sinks his teeth in, the twin points sharp enough that you only felt a twinge of pain. You could feel as blood pooled out of you and onto his waiting tongue, constantly lapping and picking up any wayward droplets.

The act feels intimate in a way you had yet to encounter, and your eyelids flutter at the sensation of teeth and muscle working together. You wrap your arms around his body, one hand cradling the back of his head as he drinks from you like a man starved. And then, almost as soon as he had started, he pulls away, giving your neck a few last licks before the puncture holes are sealed. You notice the look in his eyes are clearer now, and he looks a little healthier than when you found him.

“Do you feel better now?” you ask.

“Much, much better.” Dan Heng sighs, a sound of relief and contentment.

“I hope this doesn’t give you a taste for blood after your sickness wears off,” you say, and giggle at the look of horror on his face. “Don’t worry, that’s not a side effect you have to worry about. Welt told me about it.”

Dan Heng looks at you, narrowing his eyes.

“You…knew. About the blood drinking.” he says, realization dawning in his eyes.

“Well…I can’t say it wasn’t my intention tonight to get you to quench your thirst off me.” You grin, having been caught.

“Wh-why—” Dan Heng starts, then stops himself. “Nevermind, I know why. You’re a masochist.”

“I just wanted to make you feel better!” you protest.

Dan Heng gazes into your eyes, his stern expression melting into a gentle smile.

“I know.”

“The masochism might have played a teensy weensy little part in my decision as well.”

“I know.”

“I love you.” You wrap your arms around him and bury your face in his chest.

“I love you too,” he says, stroking your head gently. “Always.”

“We will be doing this until you’re cured, by the way,” you say.

“Not if I have any say about it,” Dan Heng huffs.

“You don’t,” you say, smiling.

Your dragon husband lets out a resigned breath, but you can tell he’s relieved by how far you’re willing to go for him.

dividers by @cafekitsune

comments and reblogs appreciated!

[normal-with-adhd-is-a-joke]

I have an idea:

Coelacanths as a symbol for contested illnesses.

According to MEpedia, a contested illness is one where "different 'experts' have different views as to the causes, and they are often considered medically unexplained". Contested illnesses are often (incorrectly) believed to have psychological roots and to not be "real" physical illnesses, many of us are waiting on physical evidence in order to be seen as "real". Sightings of coelacanths were dismissed as people seeing other fish until actual physical evidence was provided. In the same way that contested illnesses have always been real, coelacanths were never really extinct, people just didn't believe it until they had physical proof. Coelacanths have a distinct spotting pattern that could be used for awareness ribbons in the same way the rare disease ribbon uses zebra print.

[silky-nereid]

— Awaken, my love!

yandere!Reanimator x reanimated!reader

Yandere! Reanimator who returns home after a long travel and is utterly distraught finding out that you tragically suffered from a contagious disease that spread rapidly through the once peaceful town.

Yandere! Reanimator who manages to find only some parts of your limbs and gets your perfect condition brain back from a merchant since somehow the dead diseased brains became a strange delicacy.

Yandere! Reanimator who sketches out your features on a clean parchment paper to remember what you look like and she disregards her moral compass to bring you back.

After fourteenth digging up, she had stopped hurling up the remains of dinner. Sweat dribbled down her forehead, pushing up her wireframes to see correctly. Her sweaty hands gripped the bloodied bone saw, tied a faded ribbon to the forearm.

“My love would want this.” She wiped the sweat from her forehead. “I’m doing this for them.”

Back and forth. Back and forth. She collected the forearm and pulled out an upper arm piece that started at the bicep to see if it would match to be a perfect fit.

She smiled returning to the basement, replacing the wilted flowers that you favorites with newer ones to cover up the overwhelming smell of rotting parts. Her gloved hands caressed your covered face, pulling back the white cloth to see the stitches of flesh littered over your face as some skin was too far burned to be saved and she couldn’t let you be even more broken.

Yandere! Reanimator who smiles and buys clothes for you which she still joins in the rare luncheon by fellow neighbors because she still has to make the rare appearance. She still celebrates your anniversary and birthday because all she needs is a time to continue.

Yandere! Reanimator who unwittingly follows the mourning period and has brought clothes that fit your body. She often forgets to care for herself because she’s deep into stitching the body parts and gets rid of flesh too far rotten.

Yandere! Reanimator who notices the odd stares from the town sheriff but ignores them. She smiles since today would be the perfect day to have you brought back and she happily set up the table where you would come back to her.

“My love.” She heard the downpour through the basement. “You’ll come back to me and everything will be normal.”

She placed you on the metal slab, opening the wooden doors and pulling the chains that lifted you towards the downpour and hearing the distant thunder coming closer and closer.

“Awaken, my love!” She smiled. “We have many things to do when you awaken!”

Her hands held an ax, haggard breathing escaped her lips. Her eyes looked towards the unconscious sheriff and then back to you whose lungs rattled against the rib cage, stepping back to the chain that pulled you back down. Her eyes widened, seeing you immediately sit up with your limbs cracking with each movement and the smile on her face grew even more.

Yandere! Reanimator who keeps the lips of the sheriff quiet by bribing and helps you get readjusted to the new reality and always keeps you inside during the day. She smiles when you try to leave the house but she manages to pull you back to her.

Yandere! Reanimator who’s facade is cracking because you’re wanting to be independent and going back to your old ways of being alive. She occasionally sabotages your attempts to be independent because she can provide for you.

Yandere! Reanimator who tries to stay calm because you started using a different name for yourself and now decided to ask her to create a new person that can understand you which fully cracks her calm persona.

Her hands were covered in spilled ink, her eyes filled with tears and lips trembled. Her pink dressing gown’s trim was coated with splats of blood.

“I did this for you.” Her stained hands grabbed your shoulders. “I did everything for you and you want me to create someone new for you? I won’t do it.”

Your unsteady eyes looked at her with a recognizable emotion; fear. Her once warming eyes bloomed with unbearable hatred and she pressed your back against the bookshelf.

“Why are you so ungrateful?” She asked. “You ask so much. I want the person I love back, I brought you back and act like an entirely different person.”

You managed to scramble out of her grasps and legs out the door and into the scorching sunlight. Watery eyes darted up to the white ball of the sun, your stitched hand rose up to cover one of your eyes. Your other hand grazed the green grass, your ears heard an unfamiliar noise which was a familiar mixture of bird’s shrieking with a human-like quality.

She found you once more, curled in the abandoned cemetery up. Her eyes looked at your disheveled appearance, she held your stitched face as you slowly came too. She held you close to her and heard the wheeze of your lungs, her hand rested on your nape and thumb next to your ear.

“I love you,” she said. “You will learn to accept my love.”

[corneliushickey]

The knife parted skin and muscle, skated over breastbone. When it reached the hollow of the ribs it sank deep into the body. There was no resistance, no indication of agony; Birdy lay motionless in his restraints and let me open him up like a Christmas parcel. As my hand brushed his erection aside, I felt the blade grate against his pubic bone. For a long moment his torso remained intact, bisected from throat to crotch by a narrow red ribbon. Then his wound blossomed open and his contents spilled forth, a cornucopia of rare fluids and stinking scarlet treasures … A sepulchre of disease.

Andrew Compton and Birdy in Exquisite Corpse by Poppy Z. Brite

[that-disabled-princess]

Made another zine while stuck at home, but I like it so much that I think I'm going to make copies to give out to people! I'm thinking of taking a bunch of copies to pride next month :D

[ID: Two photos of a zine spread out. The zine is written in purple pen. In order, the pages read:

Cover page: Ehlers Danlos syndrome.

Page 1: What is EDS? EDS is a group of 13 genetic connective tissue disorders. Most, if not all, subtypes are rare diseases. Hypermobile, classical, vascular, myopathic, periodontal EDS + more.

Page 2: EDS can cause many problems, including chronic migraines and heart problems. It can affect everything from friendships, to hobbies, to your diet.

Page 3: Symptoms. Hypermobile joints. Fragile, stretchy, translucent skin. Digestive issues. Dislocations. Chronic pain.

Page 4: Fast facts. 80% of people with EDS also have POTS. EDS is commonly misdiagnosed. EDS is a dynamic disability.

Page 5: Why the zebra? "When you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras." Doctors are taught this phrase, meaning many rare diseases are missed.

Page 6: Sometimes, when you hear hoofbeats, it really is a zebra!

Back cover: Share to raise awareness!

On the cover page is a zebra patterned awareness ribbon. On page four are drawings of a cane, a forearm crutch, and a wheelchair. /end ID]

[pyro-madder]

Exejinkaverse Navi profiles - ACDC square

The people have spoken for one big post, here it is ! Remember to check this (also long) post for the basics of exejinkaverse if you need, and enjoy the read i hope <3

SAITO "ROCK" HIKARI

11-12 y/o

Electopian ; first twin of Haruka and Yuichirou Hikari

Elementary schooler in ACDC Town and civil NetBattler

Navi ability is shooting energy bullets ; weapon is an arm cannon (Rock Buster)

His physical abilities are average on Navi standards, but he possesses unique “customization” skills, which let him take on various transformations to adapt to any situation : from synchronizing with a fellow Navi into Soul Unison, to harnessing the destructive power of the Cybeasts by way of the unpredictable Dark Soul and Saito Style.

Additional BattleChips : Guard, Sword, Minibomb, Hammer, Dash, AirHockey.

Additional support units : C-slider (skateboard), Rush (dog).

Originally an ordinary human save from a rare and deadly heart disease, which confined him in the hospital and would ultimately take his life at age 6, his father's researches and his twin brother’s DNA brought him back from the brink as a NetNavi. But due to minor brain damage during the operation, Netto himself forgot Saito was ever human, the secret staying between the latter and their two parents. Despite this, Saito was now free to attend school normally and generally follow his twin around, picking up skateboarding to keep up with his rollerblades. Saito was quick to befriend the Sakurai, Oyama and Ayanokoji, humans and Navis alike, but would refuse to go on the Net without any of the latter, or to NetBattle altogether. This would however come to change many years later, upon World Three’s first strike...

Saito is significantly quieter and gentler than Netto, but remains just as earnest. Kind and compassionnate, he will however not hesitate to take action upon whoever threatens his loved ones, but his hostility will be quick to fade if his opponent shows genuine remorse. He looks up to many of his fellow Navis without realizing he's a great influence on them in return. A notable case of hero complex, having already overcome death once, he strives to constantly push his limits - culminating in selfless, if not self-sacrificial behavior. Having felt like a burden for the first half of his life, Saito now thrives off feeling reliable, and may bottle up his own pain to bear the world’s weight on his shoulders. He also struggles to come to terms with his artificial rebirth - being one of a kind and unable to confide in anyone who will fully understand, worsened by the secrecy of it all. The many transformations he can undergo only add to that existencial distress, which will culminate as Dark Rock.

His codename originates from the heroic alias he'd use during his playground games with Roll.

---

HINA "ROLL" SAKURAI

11-12 y/o

Neto-Electopian ; adopted by the Sakurai

Elementary schooler in ACDC Town and competitive rhythmic gymnast.

Navi ability is emitting waves - light, sound, shock, even healing ones ; weapon is a ribbon (Roll Whip)

Though frail, training as a gymnast gave her remarkable agility. She can also float down and maintain herself a meter above solid ground. Due to her ability, her EM wave perception is also above the average Navi’s. She takes on archery in 6th grade.

Additional BattleChips : AquaTower, Roll Arrows.

Additional support units : Beat (songbird).

A rare female Navi of mixed descent ; her biological Netopian and Electopian parents died in a car accident when she was a baby. The Sakurai, old friends of aforementionned parents, took her in and raised her along their own daughter of the same age. She was the first of the group to befriend Saito upon his exit of the hospital, showing him the basics of the Navi life. Hina herself had trouble dealing with her high EM sensitivity, getting frequent headaches, possible aftereffects of the accident she survived ; Saito’s compassion had the two grow fast into a close friendship, able to confide in eachother in ways they couldn’t with their otherwise just-as-close human NetOps. With time, Hina grew better control of her abilities, the hairclips she always wears further stabilizing them.

Hina is a cheerful and energetic girl. Though she can be a bit of an airhead, she’s overall easy to get along with. Excitable, emotional, but also very caring, she sees the good in everyone - but much like her Operator and adoptive sister, knows to be firm and speak up for herself. While less of a NetBattler than her friends, as an athlete, she likes a challenge, and her strong mental makes up for her apparent fragility. She has trouble evaluating her own strength (and sometimes her worth) - on the NetBattling side, she believes being no match for Rock or Gutsman, and on the athletic side, she has to practice while wearing limiters if she wants to compete on fair ground with fellow human gymnasts due to Navis' naturally higher physical performances. Regardless, she trains without fear of stumbling or even taking a hit or two.

Her codename originates from the heroic alias she'd use during her playground games with Rock.

---

GENJI "GUTSMAN" OYAMA

11-12 y/o

Electopian ; cousin of Dekao Oyama, his parents are in Netopia much like the latter’s

Elementary school in ACDC Town and civil NetBattler

Navi ability is superstrength ; weapon are gauntlets (Guts Gloves)

Said strength comes with a size and weight far above the average, but he is a little slow.

Additional BattleChips : Guts Machinegun.

Another youth of the peaceful ACDC Town. Due to the particular situation of the Oyama, Genji and Dekao alike spent much time in a children’s home, until they were old enough to fully inhabit their family’s house by themselves. Much of Genji’s early days were spent being taught to control his absurd strength, and he took on NetBattling the very day he was old enough to do so (possibly earlier, secretly...). As he went through elementary school, he rose to first position in ACDC Town - though he never actually battled his friends Roll, Rock or Glyde, merely not interested in competing, to his slight frustration... until Rock was awoken to the thrill of NetBattles and soundly defeated him. This made Genji vow to get better as both a fighter and a person, asking Rock to become his rival ; although said rivalry is pretty mild compared to the antics their excitable NetOps get up to.

Despite the appearances, Genji is of the “gentle giant” type. Extremely self-conscious about his unnatural size and strength, taking on NetBattling helped him overcome a big part of these insecurities and allowed him to build some genuine confidence. Enough, in fact, for him and his NetOp to threaten become school bullies, until they were humbled by the Hikari twins. While not the sharpest tool in the shed, Genji is enthusiastic and loyal to a fault, and will throw himself into battle without hesitation if his friends are in danger. In fact, he’ll do his best to assist them in daily, less serious or urgent situations too, in return to them often assisting him with his homework - his grades aren’t the best, but he’s at least more studious than Dekao. While he can be a bit dense, he’s very sensitive...

His codename was given to him by Dekao to help him overcome his self-consciousness.

---

CLYDE "GLYDE" LOATH-AYANOKOJI

27-28 y/o

Kinglish (has double Electopian nationality) ; relatives unknown, probably not in frequent contact with them given his past

Head butler + pilot and mechanic of the Ayanokoji family ; formerly ““debt collector”” of the Loath family

Navi ability is boosting any appliance to its peak capacity ; weapon is a blunderbuss (Glyde Cannon)

Few match his aerial mobility, with or without his flying carrier.

Additional BattleChips : PaladinSword and Sanctuary.

Additional support units : Rafale (jet-powered glider), Birdbots (doves).

Few would believe this mild and well-mannered gentleman to have been a NetPirate. Once part of the fearsome Loath family, Clyde eluded their mass arrest after their leader’s passing and managed on his own for a while. While sailing through a gang conflict, he rescued without much thought a baby from his opponents, whom he only identified after the fight as the very young heiress of the Ayanokoji family. Understanding she’d been kidnapped for a ransom only to end up caught in the crossfire, Clyde considered taking said ransom for himself, then ultimately decided that he did not want to spend his days running and hiding from the Officials. Upon retrieving their precious daughter, the Ayanokoji would surprise him with an offer : if he quit crime for good and worked for them instead, they would legally cover for him. Figuring he might as well accept, Clyde took up the post and found this new life pleasant enough, slipping into a tutoring role for the young mistress he unexpectedly grew fond of. He would eventually come to look after her friends too, humans and Navis alike. As the Hikari twins got on the move against WWW, he subtly gave them hints and insight on Net criminality, though this backseat involvement would be enough to expose his past to the boys - who would accept him nonetheless.

Already as a NetPirate, Clyde maintained a proper and elegant image, even against his enemies towards whom his apparent politeness came off as heavily fake. To the ACDC children he’s seen grow however, he is genuinely kind, and his patience and perspicacity has had them turn to him for guidance more than once ; having known both the lower and upper social circles has given him much knowledge and adaptability. Even less of a fighter than Roll, he will however not hesitate to soar into action if his employers and/or friends are threatened, ready to protect Yaito with his life and brushing off taunts of criminals doubting his reform. Despite the passive nature of his ability and the near-complete de-weaponization of his trusted Rafale, Clyde remains an ace pilot and can be trusted to effortlessly fly himself or his friends out of a pinch.

He chose his own codename on his early days as NetPirate and kept it despite his "career change" so as to not forget the path he's taken.

---

BLAZE "BLUES" RAITT

17-18 y/o

Netopian (has double Electopian nationality) ; first son of Rosa Raitt, father unknown

Ijuuin bodyguard and Official Netbattler

Navi ability is extending an energy blade out of his hand ; weapon is a katana (Blues Sword)

Developped sharp hearing after losing his sight. His defenses are low but, light and quick on his feet, he's extremely hard to catch.

Other BattleChips : ProtoShield, four elemental swords, Muramasa, a rarely-used stun gun

Additional support units : SoundBreaker (semi-automated bike), Tango (cat).

Despite being born of an affair the father would completely step out of, Blaze was lovingly raised by his mother, her career as a cabaret singer modestly subsiding for both. When Blaze was four, she would fall in love with an Electopian man on a business trip and follow him back to his country along her son. Another boy was born from this union two years later, while Blaze was kept away from the public's eye due to his illegitimate ascendance. This relative peace wouldn't last however, for Rosa was always of frail constitution, and her health would fatally deteriorate over the following years. Shuuseki processed his grief in his own way - burying himself into work and enforcing a strict studying and training schedule upon the two boys that would practically separate them for several years. One more incident was to further derail their lives - in an attempt to protect Enzan from a ransom kidnapping, Blaze lost his sight to a criminal Navi's flashing attack. His training would resume regardless, and he'd be joined by Enzan to properly take up NetBattling, their contract officially forming on an estranged, strictly professional relationship. Blaze then followed his Operator's decision to join the Officials and lock up Netcriminals before they could ever think of targetting him again, Blaze's relentless tracking soon earning him the nickname of "Hound" in lower circles of the Net.

More "trained" than "raised", Blaze internalized at a young age that Navis were better off laying low and obeying - less they be treated as walking weapons on the loose. If having one's life decided ahead is old news in the Ijuuin household, his case was taken to the extreme and he was molded into the perfect bodyguard ; hardly able to act or even think for himself, or to carry a social interaction that isn't work-related (though it should be noted that he was never on the expressive side). His rivalry with Rock will be somewhat liberating by taking on a more personal nature and tapping into his genuine (if unconscious) love for Netbattling, alongside some heated debates on Navis ethics and, with time, calmer conversations on more personal topics. If Blaze has a natural dedication to his duty and a genuine desire to protect his estranged half-sibling, his complete lack of agency will be the core of Dark Blues' rampage as provocative self-expression. Still, only this episode will be able to start mending Navi and Operator back together.

His codename alongside his long hair are homages to his mother.

[rjzimmerman]

Kind of .......strange......., but who am I to judge?:

Excerpt from this story from The Revelator:

Visitors to the King’s Palace Museum in Rwanda can locate the nation’s prized cows by following the sounds of singing.

Called Inyambo in Rwanda and Bihogo in Uganda, these massive cattle are known for the white, symmetrical horns that stretch into the air several feet above their heads. They’re bred for ceremonial purposes — not milk or meat, like most cattle. The museum’s herd of 15 cows, each adorned in jewelry and ribbons, stand as symbols of their longstanding significance in Rwandan culture and history.

With crooning shepherds living on site at the museum full time and a dedicated veterinarian on call 24 hours a day, these cows have the best possible care. But, like many rare livestock breeds around the world, they face challenges to their survival, including climate change, habitat erosion, disease, and international conflicts. The United Nations estimates that at least 17% of worldwide livestock breeds are threatened with extinction, and it advocates for preserving genetic lines that may have a better chance of survival in a warming, pandemic-prone world.

Conserving culturally important breeds like the Inyambo in the face of these threats presents its own set of challenges. Planning for their future starts with understanding their past — as well as their present place in Rwandan culture.

It also requires answering a tricky question: Are Inyambo an endangered species?

There are no monarchs in Rwanda anymore. Rwanda’s monarchy ended in 1962, when the country gained independence from Belgium. The King’s Palace Museum is a recreation of the last site of the formerly mobile monarchy, which previously moved around the country before settling in Nyanza in 1899 and establishing it as the first permanent capital of the kingdom.

The Inyambo — who roamed with the ruler until they, too, came to settle in Nyanza — are a subset of the long-horned Ankole, a breed of cattle found in Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania. The Ankole themselves are a subset of Sanga cattle, indigenous breeds from southern Africa.

During the period of the traditional Rwandan monarchy, Inyambo were bred and trained for royal parades. They would be presented as dignitaries during ceremonies honoring the king.

They’re still treated like royalty today. Shepherds croon love songs to the animals to keep them peaceful and obedient. The cows, who each have a name and are tended to like members of the family, are trained to listen to their shepherds’ songs as a means of following their commands.

[12pt-times-new-roman]

c3e36 — whitestone is for lovers

4+ hour episode!

"there's lots of lore in here because I have a problem" — quick someone find all the hidden lore in the tarot cards

oh my god please let Fearne try to steal from Keyleth

The reason Keyleth's attempt to resurrect Will and Derrig failed was because the swords were imbued with a toxin. It was a particular type of extremely rare venom, extremely expensive, designed to deny the working of divine magic.

That is for FUCKING SURE frigid woe.

Which is an Aeorian disease that the mages of Aeor manufactured to prevent magical healing, so that they could fight the agents of the gods without having to worry about their divine healing.

"Frigid woe is a special disease developed by Aeor's mages that cannot be cured by conventional treatment or magic. The only way a creature infected with the disease can be cured is by finding and drinking the manufactured antidote, a milky liquid stored in gold vials found in Eiselcross' ruins."

Cassandra is in Lyrengorn on business. This is a very small city in the northernmost reaches of Tal'dorei, and it's famous for the "Moonweaver's Ribbons," the northern lights.

The lord is in his office

one of the de Rolo children is stalking them through Castle Whitestone

Keyleth Got A Message

Her response— "Of course. Yes, no, I understand, I'll — I'll be there as soon as possible."

Vasselheim is planning a huge celebration on the solstice to reinforce and renew the divine wards around the city and to enact massive rituals not usually achievable.

There are also a lot of people doing a lot of things. Agents of the Betrayer Gods, mages, arcanists, people gathering rare materials and crafting usually-unachievable rituals — etc, etc, etc. Otohan and whatever the fuck she's up to is, for all she and the Hells know, a tiny blip on Keyleth's radar.

"My current focus with the other Ashari leaders is a rogue faction in Issylra, but the less you know, the better." that's definitely the place the Blightstar ship came from, yeah? or maybe whatever remains of the Hishari?

"[The Changebringer] is one of the good ones, one of the freer ones, one of the more fun ones... if you like where the winds can carry you, you might like the path that she leads. If faith is your thing."

Percy keeps his mask up on the wall so it's looking out over his office.

Talisein unconsciously mimicking Percy's mannerisms is so fucking funny to me, especially since it's pretty clear Matt is doing the same thing behind the screen

Percy is an excellent father and you cannot take this away from me.

"I know it's early, but if you would, please wake Pike Trickfoot and summon her to the castle. If she's not at home, she might be at the bakery."

my heart is so full

Gwen named the wolf Chetney carved for her Galdric ;-;

AND VEX??

oh that's right, Vex would age a bit slower than Percy because she's a half-elf

"She was the woman that Laudna was... she's very beautiful." Imogen my heart

we talk so so much about old adventuring parties helping out new ones and doing things for them, or about how the actions they take will affect future campaigns. but this is an instance of the Bells Hells, a level seven party, presenting an opportunity to 20th-level world leaders to at least partially undo something that has been plaguing them for decades. to make right something they thought would always be wrong, and to do it in a way that really, actually matters. "we have to help them. darling, we have to."

"I can feel her soul. It's adrift-- not yet beyond our reach, that's good. What... there's something else here. There's something... it's holding her back, I can't — Percy?"

"There's two souls bound to this body, and I can't separate them. Not like this." "Two souls?" "Yeah. And one of them is Delilah Briarwood."

akdjfgshj

yeeeeeah, Percy ain't gonna let this happen

"When you call a spirit back, you have to call out to the spirit and be like, 'hey, come back,' and they say 'yeah okay' or 'no thanks,' but I can't even talk to your friend because Delilah's there."

If Pike finishes the ritual, there's no telling which spirit will return.

Vex wants to find a solution, Percy doesn't want to take the risk

"Wasn't your soul held by another? What did your friends do?" GET HIS ASS ORYM

"What if we could get rid of her for good?" "Then do so. Without my aid."

"Darling, at least let them try... I mean... we both have some fault in this, don't we?" "Then tell me if you find a way that is satisfactory, but do nothing without my approval. Delilah stays gone."

Beau would get into so many fucking fights with Percy, I would pay money to see them interact. Cobalt Soul Whitestone branch when?

Pike thinks there might be scripture of the Everlight that could help them with exorcism or separating the soul but it's not her specialty, so now they're all gonna go back to her house to look, I guess?? and then maybe to Vasselheim?

"Do we need the old guy? Do we need that fucker?" Ashton follows Percy as he leaves??

"I just wanna say a piece, maybe make an offer. I don't like to lose." "I suggest you get used to the idea." "Let me tell you, I have. I have lost everything, everybody. I have had a lifetime of bad hits, problems, lost people, promises broken, people died, it is the background of my daily life. I have died. This is madness up here, this is not something that just fucking happens. This is what happens when the universe really doesn't like you and decides it wants to keep you around a little while longer. And then I met these people, and life changed in a very intense way. Not in a lovey-dovey 'I've found love and friends' way. The world got weird, there is weird shit happening, and now I'm feeling very small in a very big world, when I used to feel very small in a very small world and that's where I was comfortable... I'm not here for love, or happiness, or joy, or whatever the fuck— I'm here because it's important." "Don't lose that anger. Use it to build. To create. And guard it with your life... I'm not sunsetting the idea. But I need certainties. My children will not grow up in a world where that woman exists. And if you bring [Delilah] back, I will send you all to the same place I will send her. For my family."

I really want to know how much of that was Ashton being genuine, and how much of it was them trying to convince Percy of something in a way they thought would work.

TRINKET!!! BABY TRINKETS!!!

"Must be nice to get people to do what you want them to do just by growling at them, not by having to explain yourself. I'm jealous."

I am rotating Ashton in my head like they are in a microwave. They have such an interesting brand of self-deprecating hubris, such a confidence in their fatalistic tendencies, I cannot wait for them to break. I cannot wait for the moment they just break the fuck down, 'cause Ashton's disposition is like stone -- they'll never bend, they'll never yield, but when they break it will be fucking catastrophic. And when they do, I really hope that they're forced to accept that people care about them and that they care about people. Caleb's journey to that conclusion was slow and gradual and we saw every step of the way— Ashton's, I think, will be a cliff that they're pushed off of before they learn to fly.

Pike has some ideas for rituals that could help!

One seems like an astral projection type thing, very old and very powerful. The Bells Hells would need to go to where Laudna is being held by Delilah, and then separate the two of them long enough for Pike to pull Laudna away.

When a soul passes on, they go to whatever realm best matches their faith or alignment. But Laudna was in a "cold, separate" space that Pike had never felt before, and it felt "very much like Delilah." Like a fucking demiplane or something?

FCG's soul is a "unique, strange, semi-translucent light... not as bright as hers, but present, this fuzzy sparkle. As you turn your hands, you can see them shifting and moving, almost like electrical pulses, but not electricity, not arcane— it's hard to explain. You just feel warm."

"It means that you're alive. And it looks like you already have eyes on you." FCG saw the symbol of the Changebringer on their soul.

did FCG just alert Vex that the party has residuum?

YEP

YES THEY DID

"And if it goes right, we are at your service." Hm. That's something I actually hadn't considered. Vox Machina would have no reason to intervene in something that the Bells Hells are dealing with if VM knew that they were handling it. So if the Hells tell them about Otohan and that they're confident they can deal with her, VM will have no reason to get involved until after the Hells have already failed (if they fail), at which point it's probably too late anyway.

.....The Hells didn't pass through the Divine Gate when they astral projected out to wherever Laudna and Delilah are.

They're standing on a stone floor that's covered in black fog.

FCG looks a little more amorphous; whereas everyone else is crisp and defined, the shape of them is more ethereal and fuzzy. "It's not the metal that's defining the spirit; it's more like the shape that resides within is taking form."

In this landscape, there are bits of gravel and dark gray stone, all in grayscale. There are cliffs that drop off, and areas where the fog just... stops. Beyond the immediate vicinity, sound cannot travel, like the void does not allow vibrations to transmit.

Oh this is super fucking inspired by Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous. If anyone has played that game, this sounds very very similar to Aryshulae's dream realm.

There's a faint smell of vegetable rot, like a bog or compost. The wind is voices. Whispers. Multitudes. Sourceless, genderless, distant and beyond the fog.

yo that is an awesome use of the immovable rod. Ashton has affixed it underneath their bracers, so they can activate it and hold on if they fall.

As they move forward, spire-like rock formations get taller and more frequent — a valley of rock needles, until eventually they push up past beyond the fog. Some of them begin to grow branches and the whispers grow louder. "There she is." "Get her." Eventually, they get to a petrified forest — petrified or mimicked by stone, they can't tell. The ground is mimicking pitfalls, bushes, ferns — but it's all stone.

There's a built structure, like a cabin or hut, and there's a firelight coming through the window. Near it, the whispers get louder. "Hit her! She's here! Where? Gather them up, burn it down. The witch, the witch is here."

oh.

oh no.

how long has Laudna been here? hollow ones don't have a soul. so has Laudna's soul been here ever since she died, trapped by Delilah?

"There is a cot, a stone fireplace resembling the stones gathered from the forest, and within it a small fire burns. There is a small table and a stool, and on the table, you see tools— a pair of scissors, a knife. The body of a rat. On the stool, you see a shadow shape, a black flame barely holding there, flickering in and out of existence... you don't feel like she's there, but you see the shape of Laudna sitting there, making something at the table... you see a small purple light that just kind of sits in her chest."

The whispers get louder. "There she is! There's the witch, burn her!" The black flame vanishes, the fire curls up, and the stone cabin begins to burn. A bunch of shadows converge on the cabin, and start initiative!

ohhhh. maybe these are Laudna's memories (making it even more inspired by Pathfinder WotR btw). maybe she tried to make a life for herself outside of Whitestone or some other city and got chased away for being a "witch." maybe that's why she was on the run when she found Imogen. maybe we'll get to see the scene when she and Imogen met.

and that would also track. because what if all of this shit is stone and grayscale because these aren't actual memories, but neurological imprints left on the physical form of Laudna? things that were never experienced by the soul, never imprinted on the soul, but were in the body, so now they're here like echoes?

Ashton rage build update: Tal finally rolled possibility! also, their entire astral form flickers with the energy of their rage, not just their head. an ally within 10 feet of Ashton (including themself) can add 1d4 to attacks and saving throws. it's essentially a 10-foot radial bless that lasts for as long as they maintain their rage. know your enemy is Liam's keen mind of C3, and the possibility rage build is Tal's bless of C3.

yeah. yeahyeahyeah. Imogen said "they always-- that's how they always ran her out of town." so this is a memory of the Laudna we know -- Laudna after she died the first time.

combat done!

maybe it's because the lighting is making it easier to envision all of this in my adhd/asd brain, but it feels like early C3 is much more cinematic than early C2 was.

there's a little alcove underneath the house with roots. the roots lead to a tunnel. this goes to a ziggurat, right? like, this is some kind of fucked up amalgamation of Laudna and Delilah's memories because they were intwined in undeath?

"You're going down, but as you step out, you see sky facing you. A purplish, faintly obscured starscape, like a night sky with purple nebulous cloud in the distance, like you're staring into a cosmic shadow. On the sides, you see more roots, pushing downward. As you step forward, the gravity seems to shift, and suddenly you're emerging from the floor of another forest-like realm around you... you see more of these trees, and then beyond them, a wall, partially crumbled. Rooftops. Not far beyond them, a massive leafless tree, hundreds and hundreds of bare branches looming over this shaded city, with a faint bit of green light drifting out like a mist, filling the city and lighting it from underneath."

[wafflenati0n]

Incase you didn't know. This is what the different ribbon colors mean!

❤ - The red ribbon represents AIDS/HIV, alcohol and substance abuse, Vasculitis, love, heart, and disease.

🧡 - The orange ribbon represents hunger, leukemia, animal protection awareness, self harm awareness, multiple sclerosis, ADHD (attention defficent hyperactive disorder) and kidney cancer.

💛 - The yellow ribbon represents supporting our troops, suicide prevention, genocide awareness, sarcoma and bone cancer awareness.

💚 - The green ribbon represents tissue and organ donations or transplants, mental health, mental illness, leukemia, environment, kidney neural tube defects, save the earth movement, go green movement, and the recycling movement.

💙 - The blue ribbon represents child abuse prevention, arthritis, sex trafficking and slavery, and prostate cancer.

💜 - the purple ribbon represents Sarcoidosis lupus, fibromyalgia, religious tolerance, violence against women, domestic violence, cycstic fibrosis, Alzheimer's disease, pancreatic cancer, and epilepsy.

Violet - Hodgkin's lymphoma.

🤍 - The white ribbon represents victims of Terrorism, peace, blindness, and Holocaust Remembrance.

🖤 - The black ribbon represents mourning and melanoma.

Lime green - The lime green ribbon represents lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, muscular dystrophy, and mental health.

Teal - The team ribbon represents gynelogicial cancer, and sexual assault.

Periwinkle - The periwinkle ribbon represents eating disorders, pulmonary hypertension esophageal cancer and stomach cancer.

💗 - The pink ribbon represents breast cancer.

Cream - The cream ribbon represents Paralysis, spinal cord injuries, spinal diseases and disorders.

Light Blue - The light blue ribbon represents prostate cancer and men's health.

Lavender - The lavender ribbon represents all cancers (general cancer awareness), and Eplisey.

Pearl - The pearl ribbon represents lung cancer and lung disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Gray - The gray ribbon represents diabetes, brain cancer, and asthma.

Silver - The silver ribbon represents Brain disorders.

Gold - The gold ribbon represents childhood cancer.

Zebra Patterned - The zebra patterned ribbon represents rare diseases and cancers, such as nueroendocrine, tumors, carcinoid cancer, Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Whipple's disease. These are just examples, this is not excluding any other rare dieseases or cancers. (Credit to @

Hope this helps someone! If I'm missing one or got one wrong, let me know in my asks box.

[queensparklekitten]

1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 26, 27, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 37

wow that is a lot

hmmm... azaleas cause they're in minecraft

so is the type of flower determined by the person with the disease or the person they have it about? make up your mind ask game

magical girl outfit. with a multilayered tulle skirt, a frilly neckline, short frilly sleeves, a tiara, and ribbons around my arms and legs. and lots of pearls and gems.

i'd be the goddess of... well my bio says i'm the goddess of sparkly things. so, luxury and what's the word again for that feeling you get when you see something really pretty or a super cool performance. i'd accept most sacrifices, with only a few things that are off-limits.

*insert entire minecraft end poem*

battle axe if i'm feeling especially unhinged, scythe when i'm going hard on revenge and i want to look as terrifying as possible, and broad sword at other times but only if it's very ornate.

[futari wa precure spoilers redacted]

*immediately opens firefly path website* that one firefly path dress with the massive amounts of gems and fancy metal designs on the neckline and waistline and the shiny flowers that kinda looks like it's out of saga of viera , with that one firefly path cape with all the flowers and the shiny pink leaves that's got a cutout for my wings to fit through, that one firefly path crown, those ridiculously ornate firefly path wrist accessories with all the gems, flowers woven into my hair, are you seeing a pattern here? firefly path is the fantasy formal event version of aikatsu renders

am i allowed to be a hybrid of two

closest i can find's this

but it's obviously not perfectly accurate, like those should be pearls instead of chains and it should be more tiara than full crown (but still go all the way around) and the points would be wider angles. Also the crystals would be different, like that one on the forehead would be swapped out for actually cut gems with fancy detail around them. And maybe also wings on the side of the tiara if that's an option

First one. Caves in real life aren't as much my thing unless I can roleplay Minecraft, and mornings don't last very long for me because of how late I sleep. Besides, hanging out with elves means I might get homoerotically pinned to a wall with a dagger.

Never having more than one person available to play Minecraft with me- oh wait. Jokes aside, never being able to tell people about the things living rent free in my head. Either I physically can't, or I can talk about it but no one will see it even if I send it directly to them.

All the times I've had a song pop into my head and turned on the radio or changed the radio station and that exact song was playing. This has included songs that rarely got played anymore at the time. Yes, this has happened multiple times.

Have I not done so already, when I threw that masquerade ball? If you insist, that but with more Firefly Path type detail.

Flying trumps pretty much everything

Using black magic to try to kill people

Either pastel rainbow or they'd change colours depending on my mood if that's possible. If I have to pick one, gold

Are we talking "link an existing song" or "describe a song that doesn't exist"

Flower field during summer, marketplace during the other seasons

[mesotheliomalawsuitafterdeath]

Raising Mesothelioma Awareness: The Significance of the Yellow Ribbon

Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Despite its rarity, mesothelioma presents significant challenges in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and awareness. In this article, we delve into the importance of raising awareness about mesothelioma, particularly through the symbolism of the yellow ribbon.

Understanding Mesothelioma Staging:

Mesothelioma staging plays a crucial role in determining the extent of the cancer's spread and in guiding treatment decisions. The stages range from stage I, where the cancer is localized, to stage IV, where it has metastasized to distant organs. Early detection is vital for better prognosis and treatment outcomes.

The Role of Mesothelioma Awareness Ribbon:

The yellow ribbon has emerged as a symbol of hope and support for individuals affected by mesothelioma. Just as pink represents breast cancer awareness and red signifies AIDS awareness, the yellow ribbon serves as a beacon of solidarity for those impacted by mesothelioma. It symbolizes the ongoing fight against this devastating disease and the quest for a cure.

Raising Awareness Through Education:

Education is key to raising awareness about mesothelioma. Many individuals remain unaware of the risks associated with asbestos exposure and the symptoms of mesothelioma. By disseminating information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for mesothelioma, we can empower people to take proactive measures to protect themselves and seek timely medical attention.

Supporting Patients and Caregivers:

Living with mesothelioma can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. Patients and their caregivers require support and resources to navigate this journey effectively. From support groups and counseling services to financial assistance programs, various resources are available to help individuals cope with the challenges of mesothelioma.

Advocacy and Research:

Advocacy plays a crucial role in advancing mesothelioma research, promoting policy changes, and securing funding for vital initiatives. By advocating for increased awareness, research funding, and better access to healthcare services, we can drive progress in the fight against mesothelioma. Additionally, supporting research efforts aimed at developing more effective treatments and ultimately finding a cure is essential.

Conclusion:

Raising mesothelioma awareness is a collective responsibility that requires concerted efforts from individuals, organizations, and communities. By embracing the symbolism of the yellow ribbon and actively participating in educational initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and support efforts, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by mesothelioma. Together, let us strive to raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately, find a cure for this devastating disease.

[d3v1lss1nn3r]

ribbon for rare disease day :) [m 99% sure this is the correct ribbon!]

[uncertainwalls]

4

Neither you nor I ever visited each other's homes. We never met each other's families, nor did we introduce each other to our friends. Essentially, we both desired to avoid being disturbed by anyone – by anyone in this world. You and I found contentment simply spending time together, without feeling the need to add anything else. Moreover, even from a physical perspective, there was no room for adding anything. As I mentioned before, there are plenty of things we need to talk about, and our time together is limited.

You rarely spoke about your family. What I know about your family is limited to bits and pieces. Your father was a local government employee, but due to some mishap when you were eleven, he had to resign and now works as an administrative assistant at a prep school. I don't know the details of the "mishap." However, it seemed like an event you didn't want to talk about. Your biological mother passed away from organ cancer when you were three. You hardly have any memories of her, not even her face. Your father remarried when you were five, and your stepmother gave birth to your sister the following year. So, your current mother is your stepmother, and you once mentioned that you might feel a bit closer to her than to your father. You said it just once, in passing, as if it were a subtle footnote. About your six years younger sister, I didn't gather more than the fact that she's allergic to cat hair, preventing you from having a cat at home.

During your childhood, the only person you felt a true natural connection with was your maternal grandmother. Whenever you had the chance, you'd take the train alone to visit her house in the neighboring ward. During school breaks, you would even stay there for a few days. Your grandmother adored you unconditionally. She would buy you small things despite her meager income. However, every time you went to see her, you could see a displeased expression on your stepmother's face. She never said anything, but over time, you started visiting your grandmother less and less. Unfortunately, your grandmother passed away suddenly from heart disease a few years ago.

You shared these fragmented stories with me, as if carefully scooping something tattered out of the pocket of an old coat. Another thing I still remember well is that whenever you talked about your family to me, you would always stare at your own palm, as if it were crucial to interpret the lines or symbols there in order to follow the narrative.

As for me, there was very little to tell you about my family. My parents are just ordinary parents. My father works at a pharmaceutical company, and my mother is a housewife. They behave like ordinary parents and talk like ordinary parents. They have an elderly black cat as a pet. There's not much noteworthy to share about my life at school. My grades aren't terrible, but I'm not exceptionally outstanding either. The library is where I find the most peace at school. I enjoy spending time there alone, reading books and losing myself in daydreams. I've already read most of the books I want to read at the school library.

I remember our first encounter quite vividly. It was at the awards ceremony of the "High School Essay Contest." The top five winners were invited there. You and I were ranked third and fourth, sitting next to each other. It was autumn, and I was in my second year of high school while you were still a freshman. The ceremony itself was quite dull, so we exchanged short whispers between the speeches. You were wearing a navy blazer coat as part of your school uniform, with a matching pleated skirt. A white blouse with a ribbon, white socks, and black slip-on shoes. The socks were pristine white, and the shoes were polished as if with the care of seven diligent dwarves. You had the paper with my name and address hidden in your pocket over your gently swelling chest.

I'm not particularly skilled at writing. I've loved reading books since I was young and always had one in my hand whenever I had spare time. However, I didn't think I had any talent for writing my own pieces. Yet, our whole class was forced to write essays during language class for the contest. Somehow, mine was chosen among the submissions, sent to the selection committee, made it to the final round, and unexpectedly secured a place. Frankly, I didn't understand what was so remarkable about what I had written. Even upon rereading it, it seemed like a plain and ordinary composition. Nevertheless, since a few judges had found it worthy of recognition, there must have been something to it. My female homeroom teacher was ecstatic about my achievement. Throughout my life, no teacher had ever shown such favoritism for something I had done. So, I decided to accept the prize without further ado, without unnecessary words.

The essay contest, held annually in the fall among various districts, assigned different themes each year. The theme that time was "My Friends." Sadly, I couldn't come up with a single "friend" I wanted to write about, so I wrote about our cat at home. I wrote about how she and I interact, live together, and, to some extent, communicate each other's feelings – of course, within limits. There was plenty to say about that cat; she was exceptionally intelligent and unique. I assumed that there were a few cat enthusiasts among the judges. Cat enthusiasts tend to naturally feel a connection or empathy toward other cat enthusiasts.

You wrote about your maternal grandmother. About the interaction between a lonely elderly woman and a lonely young girl. About the modest, genuine values created between them. It was a charming, touching essay. Your piece was many times better than mine. I couldn't fathom why my essay placed third and yours fourth. I told you honestly. You smiled, and then, in a slightly teasing manner, added that you actually thought my essay was many times better than yours. You assured me it wasn't a lie.

"You have a wonderful cat at home," you said. "Yeah, she's a very clever cat," I replied.

You smiled. "Do you have a pet cat?" I asked. "No, my sister has a cat hair allergy," you replied, shaking your head.

That was the first bit of personal information I learned about you. Your sister had a cat hair allergy.

You're a very beautiful girl, at least in my eyes. Petite, with a somewhat round face, slender and elegant fingers. Short hair, with a neatly cut fringe of black hair falling onto your forehead. It's like a carefully crafted shading. Your nose is straight and small, but your eyes are large. By general standards of facial proportions, your nose and eyes might not align perfectly, yet I'm drawn to that asymmetry for some reason. Your lips are a delicate, pale pink, small and thin, always politely closed. They hold a few secrets deep within, like a few cherished secrets hidden away.

Were we lovers? Can I just casually call us that? I'm not sure. But at least during that period, for almost a year, our hearts were completely entwined. We eventually created a world of our own, a secret world only for the two of us – a peculiar city enclosed by high walls.

[iianetwork]

Spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA is a rare but life-threatening condition that has no cure. SMA creates many challenges to daily living such as muscle weakness, and frequent respiratory or lung infections. SMA affects 1 out of 10,000 children in the United States. Sources: CureSMA.org & Cleveland Clinic [Image description: All three images are on a light purple background with black text. Image 1: On the left side of the image is an ivory awareness ribbon with a rose on it that states "Fight, Cure, Spinal Muscular Atrophy". On the right side of the image is a title that reads "August; Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month" Image 2: Title reads "What is SMA?". Below is text stating "Spinal Muscular Atrophy or SMA is a degenerative neurological disorder affecting the spinal cord's motor neurons and muscle movement. This autosomal recessive genetic condition is related to the SMN1 & SMN2 genes which allow our nerves to control muscle function." Image 3: Title reads "Types of SMA". Below is a list of text stating "Type 1: also known as Wertnig-Hoffman Disease; presents in the first year after birth; affects swallowing and infant milestones", "Type 2: also known as Dubowitz Disease; presents in 6 months to 18 months old; affects lower limbs", "Type 3: also known as Kugelbert-Welander disease; presents after 18 months of age; affects muscle strength", "Type 4: rare adult-onset SMA that presents in one's mid-30s and affects a small percentage of muscle strength" ]recLWqMKjnvshsQFL

[christelno]

🙏🏼 PLEASE READ THIS: Hi Friends! We need to talk. ➡️ November is #crpsawarenessmonth so it's a chance for me to tell the World about this quite unknown but extremely painful disease. 🎗Most of you know that I am sick but I am not the only one in my family: my daughter suffers from CRPS also called Algodystrophy or #sudecksyndrome The letters CRPS stand for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. ➡️ It is a rare and very painful disease that creates to a gradual muscle wasting, bone loss and local osteoporosis. It also causes severe burning pain or a very cold sensation due to pressure soreness and circulation disorders. It is SO Painful that it can leads to depression and even su!c!de 😥 ➡️ My daughter has CRPS since 2018 and she hardly can walk or stand for more than 5 minutes. Because it's a very unknown disease there's no treatment and I often heard doctors calling it somatic just like they did for Fibromyalgia or others invisible pains. But it is visible though!!! My daughter's foot is generally bright red & swollen. And just right now, she is hospitalized because it was too much for her. 🙏🏼Please Guys, help me and other people living with Algodystrophy by sharing this or posting an orange ribbon for #crpsmonth ❤And Thanks for Reading! It's easy to talk about myself but telling you about my child was quite difficult for me since she is alone in her hospital room while I'm feeling guilty leaving her...🕊 ❤ #crpsawareness #sdrc #crpswarrior #sickchild #unknownillness #crps #crpssucks #crpsfighter #invisibleillness #invisiblepain #chronicpain #spooniefamily #chronicdisease #raredisease #rareillness #invisibledisability #childwithdisability #disability #disabilityawareness #inclusion #chronicpaincommunity #chronicpainlife #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniewarrior #spooniesupport #childspoonie https://www.instagram.com/p/ClDAoYDKBPz/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=