working hard to manage CMT symptoms

[Guest guest]

, hi,

Because we all have different DNA and RNA, plus different genetic mutations

that result in the myriad of CMT symptoms, we are all different in the way

we're affected. Second to that, research has proven CMT has existed for 6-7

million years before humans as we know them today evolved. Thirdly, as you

know, there is no one, no doctor, not even myself, that can predict exactly

HOW CMT will manifest in a single person. We DO in fact share various

'degrees' of the CMT syndrome at times, as evident in balance, walking

distances, tremors, ad infinitium.

I believe in an entire wholistic approach to managing my CMT including

elements of the physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual worlds.

However, I didn't always believe this. It has taken a great deal of hard

work on my part to get where I am today.

At age 10, upon diagnosis, I heard " CMT can be progressive or not at all " .

Key word here, for me, is " can " . It wasn't until I was first involved in

another CMT group that the word " progressive " was used with a more negative

impact. Also remember, that since I was diagnosed as a child, that's alot of

years to " work things out " on my part - plus I am constantly " working " on

myself each day.

From age 10 through to the end of high school, I was subjected to frequent

falls, major fatigue, falling UP stairs due to wacky balance, and more. I

was also pumped full of potassium, Ritalin, kept on my feet, while still

managing school, a part-time job, and an active social life. Those years

were incredibly HARD. As you know, following foot surgery, right away I

began swimming and walking in sand to strengthen my muscles. I had the best

medical care that Western medicine could offer - and from an early age.

Unfortunately for me at that time, my emotional life was 'on hold', and

following nine years of alcohol use, 2 degrees and several jobs, I hit a

complete physical, emotional, psychological bottom. In addition, I was

spiritually bankrupt. I know depression all to well. Not only did I have the

alcoholic delirirum tremors, I also had developed the tremors that come with

CMT. I didn't eat, I didn't sleep. In short, I was a crying, depressed,

major MESS.

Finally at age 27, circumstances presented themselves where I found vast

healing in all four " devoid " areas of my life. In addition to my 12 step

meetings, I also found a faith that I had never known, which I practice to

this day. I have also sought the help in therapy to work on " issues " related

to " LIFE " . That therapy, while short by some standards, was most beneficial.

Keys for me in managing CMT and " Life " in general are acceptance and

gratitude. These have been a most powerful health restorative, in addition

to completly changing my diet, and continuning with exercise programs as I

am able. The power of positive thought was taught to me by my father as a

child, and has always been with me. I have also meditated in different forms

almost daily for these past 26 years, which has had a major impact for the

good in my life, in all areas. I read inspirational books and I listen to

inspirational tapes and lectures. You know I also added Vitamin E to my

regimen 9 years ago, and for several years more recently received Iron

therapy. And everyone here knows about how Fijiwater has helped me.

I understand how hard it must be for you now, with CMT, life, stopping work,

etc. And I certainly wish you well in your trials. I will remember you with

special kindness in this evening's meditation.

CMT is not a " one size fits all " syndrome - there is so much I hear from

members that I cannot relate to myself. As I learned in 12 step

meetings, " don't compare, relate " . And even there, if I cannot " relate " , I

have still gained much knowledge.

~ Gretchen

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