Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta comes with challenges most people never see. It also comes with strength, adaptability, and perspective built over a lifetime.
In this episode of the OILife Spotlight, I sit down with Mary Encinias, an author and lifelong member of the Osteogenesis Imperfecta community. Mary shares her story with honesty, warmth, and clarity shaped by decades of living with O.I.
Watch the OILife Spotlight Interview With Mary Encinias
Living With Osteogenesis Imperfecta Beyond Fear
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta often means navigating uncertainty. Plans can change quickly. Energy levels shift. Bodies respond differently from day to day.
One of the moments Mary shares in this interview is breaking her hip while doing missionary work in Mexico. It was unexpected and painful. Even so, it did not stop her from continuing forward with purpose.
As someone who lives with O.I. myself, this experience feels familiar. Life does not pause simply because bones are fragile. Instead, adaptation becomes part of everyday living. Mary’s story reflects that truth in a grounded and meaningful way.
Writing Living Without Bubble Wrap
Mary is the author of Living Without Bubble Wrap, a memoir that explores growing up with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and choosing engagement over fear.
In both the book and our conversation, she reflects on childhood, adulthood, faith, and relationships. She does not minimize the challenges of brittle bone disease. Instead, she gives those experiences meaning and context.
You can find her book here:
👉 https://amzn.to/4ruVnhA
This book resonates deeply with:
- Adults living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
- Parents and caregivers
- Anyone seeking an honest, lived perspective on O.I.
Sharing the O.I. Story Through Books and Community
Stories like Mary’s are exactly why OILife exists.
Alongside these interviews, I’ve spent years sharing the Osteogenesis Imperfecta experience through my own writing. My books explore identity, resilience, and what it means to live a full life with O.I., while helping people feel seen and less alone.
If you want to explore my books and how they align with sharing the O.I. story, you can find them here:
👉 https://www.tonyjacobsen.com/books
Together, these stories help spread awareness, build acceptance, and strengthen connection across the O.I. community.
More OILife Spotlight Interviews
Mary’s interview is part of a growing series highlighting real voices from the Osteogenesis Imperfecta community.
You can watch more OILife Spotlight interviews here:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbxfX8nlfQZY4oGpfpVzBOw6MTbYtPcvR
Each conversation offers a different perspective on living with O.I., navigating challenges, and finding connection through shared experience.
Retirement, Community, and the Season She Is In Now
Today, Mary is retired. She spends her time writing, enjoying life with her husband, and staying connected with friends and her New Mexico community.
This season brings reflection and clarity. During our conversation, she speaks openly about how her relationship with Osteogenesis Imperfecta has changed over time. There is comfort in hearing how life continues to grow and evolve, even after many years of living with O.I.
Why Stories Like This Matter
The OILife Spotlight exists to share real stories from people living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Mary’s voice adds depth, wisdom, and understanding to that mission.
Her story is a reminder that:
- Living with O.I. looks different for everyone
- Strength takes many forms
- Community reduces isolation
If you have ever felt alone in your O.I. journey, this conversation is for you.
Stay Connected With OILife
OILife is a space for awareness, acceptance, and connection around Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
If you want to learn more, explore community stories, and stay connected, visit
👉 http://www.myoilife.com
