Mabuhay!
I am Tessa Ladores, a Filipino and an Asian woman living with myasthenia gravis. I represent the courage and determination of countless warriors who continue to fight this invisible illness with faith and strength.
Today, I share not only my journey, but the resilience, hope, and fighting spirit of every myasthenia gravis warrior across Asia and beyond.
I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis in 2021 after experiencing drooping of my left eyelid and severe double vision. What began as ocular MG progressed to generalized MG within months. I started treatment with steroids and maintenance medication, Mestinon. But seven months later, I went into an MG crisis. I was intubated and underwent a tracheostomy, which I still have today.
For nearly two years, I lost my voice because of my tracheostomy. For someone opinionated yet naturally introverted, losing my voice was one of the hardest battles. But I was blessed to find a doctor who helped me regain it.
Today, my symptoms are under control. I am deeply grateful that my bulbar muscles are not affected. I can speak clearly, chew well, and swallow without difficulty. In November, I also underwent a thymectomy, and I remain hopeful that it will further improve my breathing.
Despite everything, I continue to work from home as a chat support representative, a role I have held for nearly ten years. Whether I feel strong or weak, I show up. Because living with MG means adapting but never surrendering.
However, my story also reflects a bigger reality.
In the Philippines and across many parts of Asia, the battle does not end with diagnosis. Access to advanced therapies such as IVIG and Rituximab remains limited and costly. Too often, life-changing or even life-saving treatments are out of reach — not because they do not exist, but because they are not accessible.
This is why I speak.
Because awareness must lead to action. Because patients deserve access. Because warriors deserve a fighting chance.
Giving up is never an option.
To all MG warriors around the world, stay strong. We are resilient. We are seen. And together, we will keep fighting.