New England

Hello, my name is Krissy Zodda.  I am a 44 year old mom with three kids (14, 11 and 6).  I live in Southern New Hampshire.  I have been a member of the TMA since June of 2005. 

I was diagnosed with TMMay 21st, 2005.  We were getting ready to drive to New York.  I had woken up with a mild backache and took some Motrin.  I bent down, the pain in my back disappeared and my rear end got all tingly.  My legs felt wobbly.  I thought I was just stressed and these sensations were from running around too fast.  The tingling continued to travel down my legs and in about a half hour, I could no longer walk.

I went to the hospital.  All of my MRI's, x-rays and blood tests have been normal, and they continue to be normal.  The doctors could not explain what had happened to me or why.  They thought I could have had a virus and swelling in my spine, but they did not know this for certain.  There had been no surgery, no accident and no reason.  I was in the hospital for four days and then spent a month in rehabilitation.  They were great!  They worked me really hard.I came home with a wheelchair.  Some really nice folks donated their time and built me a ramp.  I also had a walker.  The physical therapist came to my house three times a week.  Now I am going to outpatient physical therapy. 

I am being told that they “expect” a full recovery, but, of course, no one really knows for sure.  I can walk with a cane and I use a brace.   I have regained almost all of the strength in my left leg.  I have a sensation under my toes that feels like a “wad of sand.”  While I can move my right leg, it drags, and I have a very numb, heavy, and tingling sensation in this leg.  I am getting stronger every day. 

Walking is still a challenge, but I continue to try.  It is hard to just sit and lie down all day!  I do standing and walking for the exercise, as well.  It is slower than I would like!  Also, daily bathroom trips become quite a challenge.

I have had a lot of support.  My spirits are good, and they say attitude is everything.  I take it day by day; I just plan on getting through this.  This has been very hard on my husband and the kids.  It has been a struggle for them to take care of me at home with all of the clutter and contraptions.  Medical bills have been tough since we had no insurance.  One of the hospitals forgave a bill; that was a relief. 

I am glad to have found The Transverse Myelitis Association, along with the forums and yahoo groups.  They have been a wealth of information and support!  It's grand to know we are not alone.  Support is a critical part of the healing process.

I want to be a part of starting this New England Tri State TM Support Group asway to reach out to others in and around my state for support, advice, and a place to go to when we need it.  Inot an expert, but I can share my story and, hopefully, provide support and understanding.  Please get in touch with me and please get involved.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Take care,

Krissy Zodda
(603)595-8917
tmladyk[AT SIGN]yahoo.com