Someone recently wrote asking the progress of some of us. Well I would just
like to give a positive report about my case. For those of you who have heard
my story, I apologize, but it seems that we have so many new people on the
list, I thought a short paragraph would help.
Hit with TM as a child, age 7, 1963. Completely paralyzed and then it began
to slowly go away. Spent about 2 months in the hospital and left with not
knowing if I would ever walk again. About 4 months after paralysis, I took my
first step!! ? Quite an exciting day in our household. Lived a relatively
"normal" life with some neurological problems - right leg, bladder, and
bowels.
About 4 years ago I developed MS symptoms and went to a number of
neurologists due to second opinions and moving. One of my major problems was
shooting pains in all parts of my body. It got tiring of always hurting. I
went to a new neurologist this past January due to insurance reasons. He was
also a MS specialist and after reviewing all of my records and symptoms, he
said he did not believe that I had MS. He told me that the pain I was
experiencing was not what MS patients usually experience. He put me on
tegretol this past April and it has been a miracle. I experience very little
pain now. (Normally when if does occur it is late in the day or evening.)
Still experience tremendous fatigue, self-cathe, and the dragging of my right
leg has become so bad that walking has become a real problem. I am even
thinking of getting a disabled parking pass. Most of the time I do not park
close to stores because I want to make myself walk for the exercise. But
other days...
Well, when I put my Dr. on the spot for a diagnosis he stated that he
believed that what I am experiencing is not MS but symptoms that mimic MS. He
believes that my symptoms are related to my bout with TM.
Also, started seeing a Neuropsychologist and I find it helpful. Concentrating
on the neurological problems and how they effect me is such a different
experience than that of other psychologists who I have went to, who wanted to
focus on my emotional state. I have been on antidepressants for almost two
years now.
Well - a new Neurologists, tegretol reducing my pain, and a new
Neurophsychologist. Things have been looking up!
I wish all of you the best in your daily battles!
Al Weger