Hi! I’m Grayson, and I make this face a lot.

I have lived with multiple chronic illnesses since 1993. That’s a hot minute! Since these diagnoses suck, I aim to help people navigate their way through life with any disability. I bring an understanding of culture, intersecting levels of oppression, and empathy to the work I’m privileged to do.

I started NSSD in 2009 when my ex-husband (referred to often as ‘T’) noticed that I wrote more and more about health on my first (and, thankfully, defunct) blog. I wrote that first blog to help T and I both learn about my SJIA. In the process, I found my true calling – talking with and helping my fellow chronically ill and disabled folks.

I really enjoy working most closely with those who are newly diagnosed and helping them to rediscover their lives after diagnosis. I can help people through this process by providing information & resources, coaching, education, and flexing that good old listening muscle. No topic is too taboo – as a sex educator, I’m honored to be able to help people rediscover what feels good and meaningful to them.

I’ve worked and presented with organizations all around the world, including Healthline, Pfizer, the University of Guelph, and OMERACT. In addition, my work has been featured in articles from publications such as US News, Teen Vogue, and Everyday Health! It’s been a wild ride so far.

In 2017, I snagged an MS in Healthcare Administration from Utica College, focused on patient engagement and healthcare management. This has allowed me to work on changing healthcare systems we move through daily for the better behind the scenes. (It’s also part of why things have been a little quiet here lately.)

At one point, I went from considering applying for disability to getting well enough to play hockey! I played goalie in 2019-2020 for the Madison Gay Hockey Association and Team Trans.

“Team Trans??” Yes, I’m transgender! In January 2020, I started taking testosterone to explore becoming more masculine. It has had a positive effect on my pain levels and how at-home I feel in my body. So did having masculinizing top surgery, even though I almost died.

I currently live in a small city in Appalachia, where I’m heavily involved in local community projects. I got remarried in 2023. I largely avoid posting about my spouse, just to help keep my personal life more separate.

Want to work with me? Please check out my disclaimers and page for companies.