Introduction

[Guest guest]

Sharon's introduction (Hi Sharon!) reminded me that I hadn't posted

to introduce myself. I'm , 53, and I live in the St. Louis

area. I feel lucky that my current neurologist, Lopate, is

associated with the very good Neurological Clinic at Jewish

Hospital here in St. Louis. I have Type II CMT, axonal CMT. My

sister does too. I'm thankful for a full time desk job as a computer

programmer/analyst since I couldn't be on my feet all day or have the

manual dexterity to do intricate work.

A little history. It all started with one numb spot on the front of

one leg and increasing fatigue. I, the Queen of Denial, attributed

it to age, weight and being out of shape. Next my right foot started

to roll inward. My doctor said it was a run down ankle. My

significant other pressured me to find out what was truly going on.

I went to an orthopedist next thinking I needed surgery. He did a

simple test with needle pricks and sent me to my first neurologist.

I had every test including DNA. I was normal with no known cause of

my neuropathy. When he felt he could do no more for me he referred

me to the BJC neurologists. It was decided it had to be familial but

I didn't press for a label until my visit earlier this month. It's a

relief to have a label.

I currently wear AFO's to handle foot drop. The AFO's are also

modified to correct my " wind shear " gait. I do okay. I'm

considering a cane for balance when I'm on uneven surfaces. My ego

is getting in the way, just like before the AFO's. This too will be

overcome.

I look forward to getting to know you better and learning from you.