Friday essay: I can’t smell – and it nearly killed me

Rachael Mead's life is shaped by her inability to smell, a condition that affects how she perceives food and navigates potential dangers. This rare condition has both positive and negative implications, highlighting the importance of our senses in everyday life. Mead’s story sheds light on the often-overlooked role of smell in safety and enjoyment, showing how a single sensory impairment can drastically alter one’s experience of the world. Her journey underscores the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of unique challenges.