Carmel student pens children’s book to help them understand rare MOGAD diagnosis

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Editor’s note: In April, The Reporter interviewed Carmel High School student Ayan Kalra about his diagnosis of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), which is a rare neurological condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks a protein called MOG. He then founded MIND (the MOGAD Initiative for Navigation and Direction) to raise awareness about MOGAD and, perhaps, help others avoid the long period of uncertainty and countless tests it took to diagnose his own condition.

Inspired by his own experience, he wrote “The Gray Cloud” at age 15 to help children understand what a MOGAD diagnosis can feel like and to remind patients and families that they are not alone.

The Gray Cloud: A Story of MOGAD, Answers, and Hope

When 12-year-old Ethan wakes up and discovers a gray cloud blocking part of his vision, he knows something isn’t right. What follows is a journey through hospital rooms, eye exams, MRI scans, new medical words, and big emotions. Inspired by a true story, The Gray Cloud helps children and families understand MOGAD through the eyes of a young patient, showing how support, understanding, and hope can make even the darkest clouds feel a little lighter.

It will be released as an eBook on Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble on July 24. It will also be released as a paperback on Amazon on July 31 and Barnes & Noble on Aug. 3.

Endorsements

“The Gray Cloud offers a heartfelt and reassuring look into life with MOGAD through the eyes of a young person who has lived it.” – Leslie Baldwin, CEO of the Michigan Rare Coalition

“Through deeply empathetic storytelling, Ayan transforms a frightening medical ordeal into a relatable story of resilience, courage, and hope.” – Dr. Michael Levy, Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, Research Director of Neuroimmunology at Massachusetts General Hospital

“The Gray Cloud offers an honest and brave view of a child and family’s experience with the diagnosis of MOGAD.” – Dr. Brenda Banwell, Director of the Department of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins, Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins Medical School