“I felt alone and terrified when first diagnosed with Behçet’s. However, since finding and volunteering for the ABDA, I’ve realized this rare disease is one of the best things to have happened to me. I have met, been inspired by, and learned from so many individuals who are also navigating their health. When sharing their stories to the greater ABDA community, it has been remarkable to witness the kindness and support they receive. Despite the challenges of BD, I feel so fortunate to be a part of this wonderful community.”
- Emma K.

"Volunteering my time to the ABDA has meant the world to me. It gives me a chance to help other BDers, so they understand that they're not alone. No one else should have to feel like that. And there are so many ways to volunteer -- I hope you'll join us!"
- Joanne Z.

“As a caregiver, volunteering with the ABDA has given me a tangible, positive way to remain cognizant of the never-ending impact of BD upon my children’s lives. Volunteering allows me to ‘give back’ to the organization which was a lifeline when my kids received their diagnoses over 20 years ago. It’s also FUN!”
- Deb K.

"My 18 yo daughter was diagnosed with Budd-Chiari Syndrome, and a rare and life-threatening symptom (deep vein thrombosis), secondary to Behcet's Disease, in early 1998.  As a parent, this was an extremely frightening time for our family.  At the time there was very little information on the internet regarding BCS, and what little there was had a grim prognosis.  I found the American Behcet's Disease Association online and called the hotline, hoping to find out more information.  It was such a relief to connect with an individual who had Behcet's, and also guided me to an online email support group.  Though information on BCS was still scarce, connecting with others via the email group was a lifesaver for me.”
- Marcia W.

"Volunteering with the ABDA has been incredibly beneficial to me in a variety of ways. It has allowed me to connect with others who have been diagnosed with Behçet’s, those who are caregivers of patients, and the broader autoimmune-focused community. My experience as a volunteer with the ABDA has allowed me to directly take part in helping those of us living with Behçet’s in a manner that I wouldn’t otherwise be able. Because of my volunteer position, I am now an active participant in a community that shares my passion of advocating for better diagnostics, therapeutics, and outcomes for those living with Behçet’s disease.”
- Angie M.

"I was first introduced to the ABDA when I was diagnosed with Behcet’s in 2011. A couple of years later I decided to do a t-shirt fundraiser for Behcet’s Awareness Day that was a huge success. A few years after that I had the opportunity to take a more permanent volunteer position as Social Media Director. I have since transferred from that role and now I am manning the Behcet’s hotline. The friendships and support I have throughout this organization has been amazing and I am forever grateful."
- Jennifer C.