A note from Mēlani

Healing my heart journey & recovery

For the past 2–3 years, I have been in and out of the hospital with chest pains that were mistaken for everything from heartburn to early symptoms of a heart attack. These reoccurring attacks were often triggered by food but would directly fill my chest with nauseating pain, a racing heart and limited capacity to breathe. I was so tired and blindsided by this new reality. Tired of being told it was aging or perimenopause, I kept pressing my doctors to look into my heart and keep testing Last week, I had the worst attack ever and by Thursday, I was admitted to the hospital. By Friday, (10/09/2026), I finally had a diagnosis - Reoccurring Pericarditis - a condition that is treatable if caught it in time. The healing protocol is one of radical rest, regular medication, an anti-inflammatory life and community support. It's a tough diagnosis but I am so happy to finally know what it is — and to know what to do about it.

For those who don't know me, my name is Melani N. Douglass. I am a socially engaged artist and culture worker who works at the intersection of . In my art practice, we have a ritual of filling each other's cup. This is the moment my cup gets to be filled. I want to pour from a full or overflowing cup — my own care at the center — because I have so much more to give, and I want to be in optimal health to do it.

Out of over 8 billion people on this planet, I have the best people close to me — to make sure I get better and continue the work I have to do.

I have a vibrant community walking with me as I return to full health, and I invite you to join my community of care at whatever level you can — a meal, a ride, a prayer, a gift, or showing up for my art. Together, may my cup runneth over, filling my heart, home, and connections with an abundance of love and care.