Colorado STRONG:
Finding Connection in the Narcolepsy & IH Journey
Who we are:
COLORADO STRONG is a free, peer-led support group for people living with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia, as well as their families and friends.
Christen Wernig with Lucy
Christen Wernig founded Colorado STRONG in 2013 after attending an epilepsy support group and realizing there were no local support groups for people living with narcolepsy. Diagnosed with Narcolepsy Type 1 at age 11, Christen has lived with the condition for more than 40 years. Her personal experience inspired her to create a welcoming community where people with narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia can connect, learn, and know they are not alone.
Christen is passionate about advocacy, education, and bringing people together. She is especially grateful for her close-knit family. Her parents and sister have supported her throughout her journey and have played an important role in helping Colorado STRONG grow and succeed.
In her free time, Christen enjoys pickleball, yoga, working out, strength training, attending outdoor concerts, and spending time with her family. She also loves spending time with her service dog, Lucy, who is a very special part of her life.
Rachel
Hi, I’m Rachel, and I’m honored to serve as a Co-Leader with Colorado STRONG.
My passion for advocacy comes from both personal and family experience. I live with Idiopathic Hypersomnia along with several chronic health conditions, giving me firsthand insight into the daily challenges of navigating complex medical diagnoses, finding answers, and learning to advocate for yourself. My family’s journey also includes supporting my daughter, who lives with narcolepsy, which has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges children and families face.
These experiences have fueled my passion for building a community where no one feels alone. I believe that support, education, and genuine connection can make an incredible difference. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, have been living with a sleep disorder for years, or are caring for someone who is, my goal is to help you find resources, encouragement, and people who truly understand.
I’m passionate about raising awareness, creating meaningful events, connecting families, and helping others feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their loved ones. My hope is that everyone who joins Colorado STRONG feels welcomed, supported, and reminded that they are never alone on this journey.
I look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you as we continue to build a stronger, more connected sleep disorder community together.
Sol
I am Solomon Briggs – a multidisciplinary artist, author, photographer, and advocate operating under the handle Narcoplexic. Living with three separate sleep disorders, my work is devoted to advancing public comprehension of the lived experience and bridging the communication divides in clinical discussions.
My involvement spans peer support, industry consulting, literature, and visual arts, all aimed at elevating patient perspectives. I have been actively contributing to online sleep communities since 2008 and currently co-facilitate the Colorado Strong Narcolepsy/IH Support Group. Over the years, I have attended more than 20 in-person industry events, showcased artwork in [N]Art exhibits, and shared insights and tools through my independent advocacy website, Narcoplexic.com. While my current focus is on formal professional engagements, I have previously dedicated time as a volunteer event photographer and outreach committee member for non-profit organizations.
Professionally, I lead Sleep Wake Dynamics LLC, an educational production studio where I serve as Lead Sleep Translator and Consultant for both 1-on-1 and B2B clients. Recently, I presented an abstract and poster on redefining cataplexy at the SLEEP 2026 conference, and I have shared my perspectives on podcasts including Sleep Science Today, Sleep Is My Waking Passion, and the upcoming Narcolepsy Navigators.
Creative expression remains central to my advocacy. I have self-published five books utilizing distinct styles to capture different facets of life with sleep disorders. I also am the creator of Leo’s Daily Normal, an ongoing graphic novel series on Patreon exploring the unvarnished experience of a teenager navigating unacknowledged symptoms without clinical terminology. Additionally, my art and experiences living with severe cataplexy will be featured in the upcoming international documentary film, Flicker to Paralysis.
Andrea
My name is Andrea Isabella Gutierrez. I’m 20 years old and living with narcolepsy type 1.
I really enjoy connecting with people and hearing about their experiences with narcolepsy or IH because I learn something new all the time. Outside of advocacy, I love reading, especially historical books, and learning about history and the stories of people from the past.
As a lifeguard and swim instructor, I love staying active—whether I’m going to the gym, walking the trail with my sister, or playing Just Dance.
Having the opportunity to be part of Colorado Strong is really special to me because it makes me feel heard and seen. Meeting people who live with the same disability inspires me to do more, not only for myself but for others too.
Advocating for myself and my community is something that is very close to my heart. I want to help others feel heard, understood, and less alone.
One of the most important things in my life is having the support of my family. They are always cheering me on and encouraging me to try new things and do my best. Having them beside me has helped me live with my condition and shape the young woman I am today.
Colorado STRONG Narcolepsy & IH Support Group
©2026 Colorado STRONG Narcolepsy & IH Group. Established 2013.
Website created Aug. 2026 by: Solomon Briggs