Genetic Testing

[Guest guest]

Hi Gretchen,

The UK is very active with genetic research and engineering - more so than the

US as we have less restrictions on stem cells etc, although we do have an

ethical advisory panel which licenses all research.

As for testing, I am not sure if they do specific testing on embryos for say

CMT. However, I do know that testing is done, as a friend of mine was going

through fertility treatment, had two or three implants and nothing took, then

they tested her last round to select only fertilised eggs without impairment for

implanting - there were only 2 in the batch of 10 that qualified. Long story

short, she had twins, and it would seem that testing is done.

It is such an ethically touchy subject to get into the testing issue. I

personally do not have kids yet, and am not sure if I will, nor if I will ask

for testing prior to kids or of the fertilised eggs. It is something for each

individual to look deep inside and ask themselves about.

I am doing ok with my walking training - my muscles are tired, my feet a bit

sore, and the last " tune up " on the orthotics has been less than a success. I am

a bit worried about 60k - will I make it - but will do it. It is so important

to me to have these physical goals and challenges. I am never sure if I am

overdoing it, but I feel in general good just a bit tired. I will sure be happy

once I complete my challenge!

- Donna from London