The Journey of Beautiful Destinations — Richard E. Poulin III

Main graphic for "The Journey of Beautiful Destinations," AADC News, a column by Richard E. Poulin III

Richard E. Poulin III is an American currently working as Head of Middle School for an international school in Bangkok, Thailand. He is also the president of the nonprofit organization Teach RARE. In 2018 his newborn daughter, Rylae-Ann, was diagnosed with the ultra-rare disease, aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency. Richard shares his journey and aims to provide caregivers with strategies and tips to improve their family’s journey.

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We resolve for the new year to spend more time with family

As we step into 2026, our journey with our daughter, Rylae-Ann, and aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency continues, but it looks very different from how it once did. For several years, our entire world revolved around her well-being. Every decision, every plan, every ounce of energy…

Richard selfie

Standing Tall With AADC

When I first learned about the severe symptoms associated with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, standing seemed like an impossibility for my now 3-year-old daughter, Rylae-Ann. However, physical therapists told me about a device that makes standing possible while serving as a form of therapy. At the time…

A Beautiful Destination and Its Detours

As a young boy, I used to lie in bed and play in my room imagining that I was a hero or that I had accomplished something great. Maybe everybody has had dreams like this. In my daydream, I was always in some sort of war or great battle, probably…