Hi, I’m Deborah Duarte. I’ve never taken the easy road—though not by choice. I was born with a rare condition called arthrogryposis, and more recently, I was diagnosed with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). These experiences have shaped who I am, how I move through the world, and what I choose to share here.
Arthrogryposis is a congenital condition, which means I was born with it. It affects how joints form and move, and for me, it means some of my joints are stiff or locked in place. This can make certain everyday tasks more challenging, but it’s also taught me to be resourceful, adaptive, and incredibly determined.
Then, just within the last 10 months, I found myself facing a new and unexpected challenge: familial Mediterranean fever. FMF is a rare genetic disorder that causes sudden and intense episodes of inflammation—often with fevers, severe abdominal or chest pain, and joint swelling. These flares can be unpredictable and exhausting.
My symptoms have ranged from:
- High fevers with no clear cause
- Stomach Pain (which can mimic Crohns)
- Swollen, painful joints
- Extreme fatigue
- Vertigo/dizziness
- Skin rashes during flare-ups
- And an overall sense that something was “off” in my body for years before the diagnosis
Living with both of these conditions has given me a deep appreciation for resilience, a stubborn streak I’m proud of, and a desire to connect with others who are navigating life with chronic illness or disability.
This blog is where I share my journey—not just the medical side, but the personal, emotional, and day-to-day aspects too. Whether you’re here because you have one of these conditions, know someone who does, or are simply curious, I’m glad you found me.
between the flares 