Biography

Onset ‘94~Diagnosed ‘97

Classic beginning after birth of daughter. Numb bands and fatigue diagnosed by A-hole Family doc returning from Vaca “just your nerves”.

Finished Econ Degree began College Teaching while pursuing Masters. Spring break ‘97 in Mexico and saw double pyramids in chichen itzá.
Finally taken seriously by optic neurologist and luckily Cleveland Clinic Mellen! I volunteered for studies with Dr Lael Stone (second Neurologist Mellen) and after she passed I continue alongside her assistant Shauna Gales.
I’m part of a team aggressively doing battle with this disease. Avonex, Copaxone, Gilenya and now Ocrevus. Taught large auditorium classes with “hep-lock” and told my students the truth “if I stagger a bit… It made me approachable and teaching/learning the joy of my life.
I finally retired from teaching when I no longer could get to campus since my feet were too numb to drive, Secondary Progressive? Cog Fog and depression knocked me down.
Luckily I’m still married to a great guy. It’s not perfect. Life is well lived for me is always a challenge.