These are the stories of ordinary New Zealanders taking extraordinary steps in the face of adversity. The message that is common to these stories is that with determination and energy, and by working to achieve co-operation from others, we can make a difference to the knowledge, diagnosis, clinical care and research, of the rare disorders that affect us and our families.

For many people the diagnosis of a rare disease is a major shock. Often there is a feeling of loss of control of your life, and feeling a victim of the situation. These stories show that we can begin to turn the tide against conditions for which little has been known in the past, and little hope offered. Increasing Genome knowledge, modern biotechnology and collaborative partnerships with health professionals and researchers, are helping us to gain control over the diseases that we have previously just been the victims of.

Without doubt, this century will see rapid progress in treatment and control of rare disorders. Click on the links below to read the stories of some New Zealanders who are a part of this change.

• Saving Lisa - One woman's fight against LAM
• One Family's Journey with Mucolipidosis type 3
• Family funds research into "lost girls"