I was diagnosed with TM about 5 weeks ago (though I seem to have gotten off
very lightly). The good news is that lots of the information is fresh in my
mind. The bad news is that I've been a bit of a muddle... what I *think* I
know comes from Jim's (and TMA's) excellent web sites, the doctors, and my
attempts to synthesize all of this. I trust others on the TMIC list will
correct anything I say that's grossly wrong :-)
First, as I understand it, saying that one has TM is much like saying
"Johnny has a broken arm." That is, it describes the current condition, but
doesn't say a thing about how you got that way. It appears that TM can be
caused by viral or bacterial infections, congenital defects, or injuries.
> What time a year did you get TM?
February 28th; more or less the end of winter here in northeast Mass.
> What kind of animals are suppose to carry this virus?
don't know. But a large number of viruses and bacteria may cause TM, so it
could be anything from fleas to household pets to things that you carry
around in your body and are normally able to fend off.
> Did you have any recovery ? If so how much and how long
>did it take?
My recovery has been very rapid. I'm taking physical therapy twice a week,
and feel I've completely recovered my ability to walk, though the dr. and
my wife say my gait is still a bit odd. Lingering symptoms include my
girdle/waistband, very minor lower back pain, and some minor stiffness and
numbness in my legs. (This doesn't seem particularly relevant to Sumer's
case, but at least it's another data point.)
> I feel that my daughter is adjusting well to being in the
> wheelchair, but I know it must be very hard
> for her. Have a Nice Day!
Having only a clue what my wife has been through in the past 5 weeks (and
she's been absolutely terrific!), it sounds like Sumer is lucky to have a
mother like you.
You and Sumer have all my best wishes,
/andy
--- Andy from Massachusetts