CL of the Month: March 2005 cl_cynhaller

March 2005

Name: Cynthia, cl-cynhaller

Communities: Allergies & Asthma on Health & Well-Being and Expatriate on Pregnancy & Parenting

What brought you to Health & Well-Being?
I had just been diagnosed with asthma and had tons of questions running through my mind, such as: How do you get asthma, why is it bothering me now, what should I be careful about? And all of the information that I found online was about asthma as a childhood disease. I felt like an odd case. And when I found the Asthma message board at iVillage, I asked if it was possible to develop asthma in adulthood, and the answers I got were amazing. I felt normal again. And I finally found the place to get all of the information I needed. I also found out I could bring support to others, and this was something amazing, too.

How has your experience as a community leader affected your life?
In many, many ways, all of my boardies are like my family. I worry a lot if I don't see them online for a while. You never know what can happen with allergies and asthma.

The board works like a team, and we share lots of things beside our asthma- and allergy-related problems. If I can bring some awareness about what asthma and allergies are, I consider my job done ‑- and there is so much to do in that field, trust me.

What's been your most memorable and/or entertaining experience as a CL?
Being a CL is a wonderful experience. I can't pick just one moment, really. Each time a member thanks me for my advice or tells us that she went to see a specialist after consulting our board and finally got the treatment she truly deserved, I feel really happy. We did our job and helped someone to feel better ‑- this alone is priceless. I am especially thankful to my regular members for being so supportive when I shifted from Switzerland to India. Despite numerous moves, I've been able to keep the board active with their help. Thank you, guys, for being who you are and for helping our community to grow.

What are some of your offline hobbies and interests?
Anything artistic ‑- I love to paint, make bead necklaces, sing, read and watch movies. And on the computer I like playing with Paint Shop Pro.

Final thoughts?
Thank you, iVillage, for letting me experience the joy of being a CL. By volunteering, you become part of a very special family, and learn so much about others and yourself in the process.