Introduction

[Guest guest]

Hello CMT discussion group!:

My name is Melody Cleary and I am glad to become a member. I am 44 years old

and was diagnosed with CMT when I was 6 years old. I am the youngest of seven

children and am the only one affected, and know of no extended relatives that

are affected, although they are in the midwest and I do not know many of them (I

am on the west coast). I have no nieces or nephews that are affected. My

ancestry is mostly German, a little Scandinavian and French. I am married and

have a healthy, strong 12 year old son who has been my joy - he and my husband

are very helpful around our house. I am affected above the knees and have very

weak hamstring muscles. About 10 years ago I was fitted with AFO braces (the

Oregon Orthotic System) and forearm crutches and have had good success with

them. I have been able to walk pain free up until recently - one knee is giving

me trouble, possibly due to falling. My hands and lower arms are also affected,

but the fingers are fairly nimble. I love to paint and do artwork, when I have

time, and do a little flower gardening now and then.

I am looking forward to corresponding with any or all of you.

Sincerely,

Melody Cleary