Life Change at 73
Four months ago, in September 2022, I began this journey with shortness of breath. I was very active, swimming twice a week, walking three miles a day, volunteering, busy with my six grandkids. Loving my life!
Then my eyes began closing while driving. I went through weeks of X-rays, EKGs, and stress tests. Finally, a blood test confirmed it was MG. I was told to get to a neurologist ASAP. So I had my referral and found out the first available appointment was six months out. Well, I thought surely there’s a neurological group that can see me sooner! I live in St. Louis! Nope!
My first appointment is on January 24 with the nurse practitioner. In the meantime, I’ve been on intermittent doses of prednisone. My right eye closes completely by late afternoon. I can’t drive at all. Can’t get to the pool, walking is hard, can’t raise my arms, and the fatigue is overwhelming. Had to stop all volunteer activities. My right hip is severely compromised with arthritis but the surgeon said to come back when I have the MG stabilized.
So now I wait. How can something so debilitating happen so fast? I’ve read all the books on MG and spent hours googling it. Joined every organization. I have a supportive husband that does everything I can’t do. I know I need to accept this and change and accept this new normal. But right now I’m angry, grieving the loss of my independence, sad, and defeated. Look on the bright side, I would if I could keep my eyes open.
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