The story of Nayeli
To most people, I seem like any other student—someone who excels in school and has it all figured out. But what they don’t see is the invisible condition I live with every day: Cowden syndrome. This rare genetic disorder increases my risk of developing tumors in various parts of my body, including my skin and thyroid. I was diagnosed at just six months old after a CT scan led to further testing. Since then, my life has been filled with regular check-ups, monitoring, and uncertainty.
Despite having a learning disability associated with Cowden syndrome, I’ve always been dedicated to my studies, maintaining straight A’s. But because I succeed academically, people often doubt my struggles. They assume my condition doesn’t affect me or that I’m making excuses when I miss class for medical reasons. Some expect me to push through like everyone else, while others assume my illness limits me. Neither is fair. I work hard, but that doesn’t mean I don’t face challenges—exhaustion, brain fog, and the stress of constant medical concerns.
People often forget that just because I seem okay doesn’t mean I’m not struggling. Cowden syndrome affects me physically and mentally. The fear of what could happen is always there. Despite this, I’m grateful for my support system—my family, friends, and the teachers who take the time to understand my needs. Their kindness makes a difference. Living with this condition has taught me resilience and empathy, and even on the hardest days, I remind myself that my experiences, struggles, and successes all matter.