Let me begin by saying that I typically write Mission Moments about the impact HD Reach has on someone in the HD community. But this time is different. This Mission Moment is about the impact the HD community had on me.
I recently relocated to the Kure Beach, NC, area and had the opportunity to attend my first Wilmington meetup. I was excited to meet members of the group and get to know them in person. I wasn’t sure if I had previously worked with anyone attending the meetup or if I had connected with them during my time with HD Reach as a Care Navigator.
From the moment I arrived, the group welcomed me in, and it felt incredibly comfortable—almost like seeing old friends. As we introduced ourselves, I began recognizing names, faces, and, most importantly, stories. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I had interacted with every person in the group in some way. If I hadn’t worked with them directly, I had worked with a family member or loved one. Some recognized me from virtual meetings or HD Reach events, while others knew me only by my name and voice.
As we talked, we shared stories and reflected on the ways I had supported them or their loved ones throughout their HD journey. They shared updates about their lives, and we reconnected in a way I never expected.
As I sat there listening and catching up with everyone, it hit me: this was a full circle moment for me.
Over the years, I had built meaningful connections with these individuals without ever having the opportunity to meet many of them face-to-face. Now, here we were, sitting together in the same room—not simply as Care Navigator and client, but as members of the same community.
My heart was so full in that moment. I was reminded of the true mission of HD Reach and just how meaningful this work is. Being able to support individuals and families throughout their HD journey is an incredible privilege, but having the opportunity to eventually sit alongside them, reconnect, and celebrate the community we share was something truly special.
I plan to continue attending the Wilmington meetup and look forward to strengthening these meaningful connections.
If you’ve ever considered attending an HD Reach meetup but haven’t taken that step yet, let this be your sign to go. The HD community is welcoming, supportive, and full of people who understand what you’re going through.
And if you’re not ready or able to attend a meetup, please know that there are so many other ways to connect with HD Reach and the HD community. I would be happy to tell you more about them.
Don’t be afraid to reach out. You don’t have to navigate the HD journey alone.
