Meet SRNA’s New Administrative Assistant

By Angel Simpelo

From a young age, I observed how people make a difference when they organize. From grade school to college, I volunteered with local groups to provide essential services. The world rapidly changed around me, and I felt moved to serve humanity. I shifted from the for-profit world to the nonprofit sector. I have worked together with donors and volunteers to provide resources to populations such as veterans, people who have disabilities, and people who have low income or are experiencing homelessness.

When I researched the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association and considered working here, I immediately felt inspired. I have two family members who have lived with debilitating disorders. I have witnessed firsthand how associations like SRNA profoundly helped my family to find support and comfort. The benefits from dependable advocates and a sense of community are huge. I know that this collaborative work is life-changing.

Now that I am a part of SRNA, I find myself surrounded by compassionate and dedicated staff. When I think about our support groups, I envision networks of brilliant people uplifting one another and growing as a family. I have been told that our education programs and events are informative and transformative, empowering people and offering hope, while reaching more than 100 countries around the world. It was amazing to learn that, since our founding in 1994, SRNA has grown to more than 14,000 members.

As my colleagues fulfill SRNA’s mission by offering support and advocating for individuals and their families diagnosed with rare neuroimmune disorders, I hope that some peace comes along with that contact. I can see that the long-lasting impact on the world will be enormous, as SRNA engages in research and supports the training of clinicians and researchers specializing in these disorders. As we continue to build a collaborative and dedicated clinical care network, these many points of light are spreading to advance scientific understanding.

To connect with the many lives affected by these rare neuroimmune disorders is incredible. As I read the experiences that our members and their loved ones have shared, I am humbled and honored to do this work. I know that I have joined an organization that works tirelessly to make a difference for patients and their families. Though we may have to wait to meet face to face, I often think about the children, adolescents, and adults who we serve. I am grateful to work alongside our community of members, staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, Medical and Scientific Council, educators, and researchers.