Finding solutions through connection: Meet @gabrielm

Member Spotlights feature interviews with fellow Connect members. Learn more about members you’ve connected with and some you haven’t met yet. Nominate a member you think should share the spotlight.

JOHN: What brought you to Mayo Clinic Connect? 

@gabrielm: I originally discovered Mayo Clinic Connect around 2018 when I was searching for answers for my own condition. As more and more people found my original post about Mysterious shortness of breath, I became more involved. I like to help people who have similar symptoms, sharing my own experiences and how I deal with my health and wellbeing.

JOHN: What about Mayo Clinic Connect makes you feel comfortable to share and to be open with the community?

@gabrielm: My experiences with Mayo Clinic Connect have always been positive. I have made many connections with various people over the years and have developed a relationship based on mutual help and the sharing of experiences. Connect is run by great moderators who care very much about what they do and facilitate a great experience.

JOHN: What groups do you participate in?

@gabrielm: For right now, I focus on the Lung Health Group. I plan to expand to other groups as a participant or mentor.

JOHN: Tell us about a meaningful moment on Mayo Clinic Connect.

@gabrielm: The moments that stand out to me are the many times someone new has posted on my original post about shortness of breath or messaged me directly thanking me. They feel relieved to find a forum and community of people who have experienced what they do, and where they can speak with me and others who support them. Many of them have spoken with doctors, friends and family, but weren’t believed or their mysterious medical issues were dismissed. On Connect, they found a community of support, and that helps them find solutions. Interacting with members brings me joy and motivates me to continue being involved in the community however I can.

JOHN: What surprised you the most about Connect?

@gabrielm: How quickly a sense of community can develop online through mutual support of each other’s conditions and difficulties.

JOHN: What energizes you, or how do you find balance in your life?

@gabrielm: My faith energizes me along with my family and friends. I find balance by carving out time for family, hobbies, learning, exercise, and rest. I’m learning that it’s ok to say no to some requests and take the time to slow down every once in a while and enjoy the present moment.

JOHN: Tell us about your favorite pastime or activity.

@gabrielm: Currently I enjoy fishing and wood carving. I do a lot of mountain stream and river fishing. I have been developing the skill of caricature wood carving, which I find enjoyable and which allows me to share pieces with others. Bringing a smile to someone’s face when they see a finished carving brings me joy. I also find the carving process very relaxing and calming; very therapeutic. 

JOHN: Do you have a favorite quote, life motto or personal mantra?

@gabrielm: “Remember that your real wealth can be measured not by what you have, but by what you are.”― Napoleon Hill

JOHN: What do you love about where you live or vacation?

@gabrielm: Green chili!

JOHN: What food can you simply not resist?

@gabrielm: I’ve never met an ice cream I didn’t like!

See more Member Spotlights.