A Myasthenia Gravis story

---

 

I was diagnosed with myasthenia Gravis after a visit to my  ophthalmologist sent me to have blood work that came back positive for Achr antibodies.  I'd noticed I'd had a droopy eye for about a year with deteriorating muscle strength in my arms, legs and neck.  I'd also had visual disturbances that included jiggling eyes and double vision.  2 positive EMGs, one positive SFemg from Ohio State and 2 neurologists later I was put on Mestinon.  It made a big difference but my strength continued to deteriorate.  Be been admitted by my neurologist to the  hospital 8 times and had to quit my job as an artist and teacher.  When I quit my employers had to hire 7 people to replace me.   Now I do well some days to be able to stand long enough to fix myself a sandwich.  Some days are better than others, but I've had to redefine what it means to be normal.  

Ive had IVIG, plasmapheresis, Mestinon, Cellcept, and large doses of prednisone.  Prednisone has caused Cushing disease, steroidto help keep me mob induced diabetes, weight gain, and brain fog.    I'm almost at my one year mark on Cellcept and I'm waiting for that to begin working.  I am so hopeful!  I currently use a cane, rollator walker, and wheelchair to help keep me mobile.