Brain On Fire

Cahalan and her family are invited to a lecture by Dr. Najjar. Although tardy, they arrive in time to hear him present her case to the audience. Cahalan’s editor, Steve, asks her to compose an article detailing her bout with an autoimmune disease. The article is her redemption; it symbolizes her return as a professional, as a functioning adult.

Cahalan is inspired while writing the article about her illness. The history and statistics she unearths are starling. Cahalan’s knowledge and interest grow as she learns about people throughout history who have suffered from the same illness and were not properly treated. Cahalan also reflects and gains perspective on her experiences in the American healthcare system, on her appointments with Dr. Bailey, and her treatment from Dr. Najjar.

Cahalan’s article is mostly well-received. There are people who contact her telling her that they can relate and share their stories of hope. There are also people who contact her out of hate and spite because she lived, and their loved ones did not, such as the newlywed whose wife was ill: “‘And how come you got better while my wife is still sick, even though she was diagnosed before you?’ ‘I, I don’t know.