Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a rare, chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the communication between nerves and muscles, leading to varying degrees of skeletal muscle weakness. Living with MG can be incredibly challenging, requiring constant adaptation and resilience. Despite these difficulties, many individuals with MG lead fulfilling and inspiring lives, pushing boundaries and achieving remarkable feats.
Today, we are honored to share the story of Tania, a 35-year-old athlete who has been navigating life with Myasthenia Gravis for the past eight years. Tania’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, optimism, and unwavering spirit. From the initial diagnosis and surgery to her remarkable achievements in the Paralympic Games, Tania’s experience offers invaluable insights and inspiration for all MG patients.
In this interview, Tania Keramyda candidly discusses her struggles, triumphs, and the lessons she has learned along the way. Her story is a powerful reminder that, despite the obstacles posed by MG, a positive mindset and relentless pursuit of one’s dreams can lead to a better quality of life and extraordinary accomplishments.
Can you share a brief introduction about yourself and your journey with myasthenia gravis?
I'm Tania, I'm 35 years old, and my journey with Myasthenia Gravis started when I was 27 years old. Intense visual disturbances, intense headaches, and some moments of weakness pointed toward finding the cause of these symptoms. I had surgery the following month due to hyperplasia of the thymus gland. The first year after the surgery was educational for me. I knew nothing about this condition and started to learn about it. But in the second year, I suddenly faced my first Myasthenic crisis. I was very scared, but I trusted my neurologist. It is very important to have a good doctor, and I feel lucky.
What motivated you to pursue athletics and compete in the Paralympics?
Four years after the diagnosis, I hesitantly started track and field again as a disabled athlete. I felt so weak; I thought I couldn't do it. But then I said, "Tania, you have to live a better life. You can do it if you believe it." And I believed it! The careful but systematic work of all these years brought the result of my participation in the Paralympic games.
How has living with myasthenia gravis influenced your athletic career?
At first, I was classified as visually impaired. But one year later, my health worsened, and I had to sit down to do my throws; I couldn't stand up. My legs started to not cooperate well, and now they are too weak to support my body. In the last few months, my arms have also been affected, especially the arm that I use to throw the javelin. It sounds disappointing, but it has made me more determined to try even harder to find solutions to be better.
What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Most of the challenges I face are familiar to all Myasthenia Gravis patients. The symptoms of the disease can be different every day. I try every day to find ways to be well, in whatever situation I find myself in. The secret for me is the optimism with which I see things. This perspective helps me a lot. We are human, and it is understood that there are difficult moments and obstacles in the program. This is normal and expected. But that is the moment when we have to take a step forward and overcome them.
What advice would you give to other patients with myasthenia gravis who aspire to achieve their dreams?
I have many tips to give, but the most important is to never give up trying for a better life. Do not be discouraged. Never stop dreaming. Dreams and targets have no age. Never stop fighting. Never give up. The power we have in our souls is far greater than any force that tries to stop us. Remember that, "If I can do it, you can do it too!"
What are your training routines like with such fluctuating and unpredictable illness?
It's not easy at all. We have to adapt the training to my body every day. We follow all my doctor's instructions exactly. I take all my medication correctly, and I do medical tests and check-ups very often so that I can know my condition. I have a medical and paramedical team around me. We are careful not to push myself too far. I want to be very careful; health is above all. They work perfectly with my coach, and so I can perform better and safely. I would like to point out that sports have helped me a lot in my life. I have a better quality of life living with Myasthenia Gravis.
What are your goals for the future, both in sports and personal life?
I want to live each day and make my life the best I can. To improve myself every day and try to be as healthy as possible. I will continue to work out as long as it helps my body and as long as God allows me. I know there may be much harder days ahead, but I am ready to face them too with a big smile!
This photo captures a moment from a visit to the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, where Tania was invited by Anna Zannetou, the President of the Cyprus association, to share personal experiences with Myasthenia Gravis. All images are the property of Tania Keramyda.