Brave Butterfly Bari
Courage to Take Flight
Expert resources on hypopara management, calcium crash recovery, Yorvipath treatment, clinical trials & patient advocacy.
Anything is possible! You are not alone on this journey.
Just diagnosed? Start here →
Resources, first steps & Butterfly Buddies
Track Your Health Journey
Log in to see your calcium trends, symptom patterns, Bridge Battery results, and brain game scores — all in one place. Download your history to share with your doctor.
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My Why
Everything I do in this fight against hypoparathyroidism is for my children. They are my motivation, my strength, and the reason I never give up. When the bad days come — and they do — I look at their faces and remember why this movement matters.
This is bigger than me. This is about every parent with hypopara who wants to be there for their kids. Every patient who deserves better treatment. Every family that shouldn't have to face this alone.
Read My Full Story
World Hypoparathyroidism Day
June 1st — Join the movement. Raise awareness.
Athletes & Advocacy
In sports, we discover one of life's greatest lessons: the courage to overcome adversity and rise stronger each time we fall. I draw parallels between athletes and hypopara patients — we both fight through pain, push past limits, and never give up.
From Jayson Tatum's comeback to the resilience of Olympic gold medalists, the spirit of competition mirrors our daily battle with hypoparathyroidism. Every good day is a win. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.
Read My Columns
About Bari
As a columnist for Hypoparathyroidism News, I believe that adversity is an opportunity for greatness. My life is proof that life is too short to be anything but grateful.
I'm a proud mother to two incredible children who are my reasons why I fight each day. My daughter Drew, 26, is a Chiropractor at Lake Pointe Wellness in Acworth, Georgia, and my son Harrison, 24, is a sports director at KALB-TV in Central Louisiana.
Through writing, speaking, and community building, I transform personal adversity into meaningful advocacy for those living with hypoparathyroidism.
Life Before & After a Calcium Crash
A life-altering calcium crash changed everything. Read about the experience that transformed my advocacy journey and learn how to protect yourself.
Read the ColumnNewly Diagnosed?Meet a Butterfly Buddy.
A Butterfly Buddy is an experienced HP patient who has walked the same path and wants to help you navigate yours. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on calcium management, or just to know you're not alone — we've got you.
"You are not alone on this journey. Anything is possible!" — Bari Vapnek
Volunteer as a Buddy
I want to help someone newly diagnosed
Share your HP experience and offer guidance, encouragement, and real-world support to a patient just starting their journey.
Request a Buddy
I was recently diagnosed and need support
Connect with someone who truly understands what you're going through. You don't have to figure this out alone.
Natural Nutrition
Seasonal Wellness
Although we need our calcium and vitamin D supplements, incorporating seasonal, nutrient-rich foods into our diet can support overall wellness. Explore recipes and nutrition tips tailored for the hypopara community.
Resources & Links
Trusted organizations and resources for the hypoparathyroidism community.
The Assistance Fund (TAF)
Financial assistance for hypoparathyroidism patients — copays, premiums & medical costs
Rare Patient Voice
Share your voice in research surveys and help advance rare disease understanding
HypoParathyroidism News
Latest news, columns, and community for the hypopara community
NORD — Hypoparathyroidism
National Organization for Rare Disorders — comprehensive disease information
Kelley Kronenberg
Nationally recognized law firm — legal resources and advocacy
Holistic Health
Focus on mind, body, and spirit. Complementary approaches that may support your hypopara journey.
Acupuncture
Traditional practice that may help with pain, stress, and nerve function
Chiropractic
Spinal alignment and musculoskeletal support
Functional Medicine
Root-cause approach to chronic conditions
Nutritionist
Personalized dietary guidance for calcium management
Yoga Nidra
Deep relaxation and restorative meditation practice
My Family & My Why
The people who inspire me every day to keep fighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about hypoparathyroidism, advocacy, and how you can get involved.
We are all in this together. Every butterfly matters.
What the Community Says
"Reading about Bari's experience as Patient #1 in the clinical trial inspired me to never give up on finding better treatment options. Her courage is contagious."
Latest News & Research
Phase 3 Trial: Palopegteriparatide at Higher Doses for Hypoparathyroidism (NCT07081997)
ClinicalTrials.gov / Ascendis Pharma
Phase 2 Trial: EXT608 — A Novel Long-Acting PTH Analog for Hypoparathyroidism (NCT06988670)
ClinicalTrials.gov / Extend Biosciences
Phase 2 Trial: XH-02 mRNA PTH Drug for Hypoparathyroidism (NCT07540286)
ClinicalTrials.gov / Peking Union Medical College Hospital