Wednesday 2 September 2015

What is CMT? (CMT Awareness Month 2015 - DAY 2)

Welcome back to CMT Awareness Month on my blog!
       

Today I'm going to give a short introduction to CMT, particularly from my personal perspective. This will then allow us to cover these topics, and more, in detail over the coming days and weeks.

Please do pop back each day and learn a little more about this disease.

To read my other Awareness Month posts, simply click on the "Awareness Month" tag at the very bottom of any of these posts!

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What IS CMT? 

CMT is Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (now you can see why it's abbreviated!!). The names are the 3 scientists who first described and classified the disease in 1886 (I think that was the year!). 

CMT is a peripheral neuropathy which, simplified, means that's the muscles in my arms and legs don't work. This leads to muscle wasting, and in turn walking, balance, mobility issues as well as problems with manual dexterity (hands!). I also get a fair amount of pain and fatigue.

As it affects the peripheral nerves it can also affect the nerve to the diaphragm, making breathing tricky at times, I find it especially when laid flat.

The disease is progressive, meaning that it continues to gradually worsen throughout life (but is not a fatal disease). 

So that's it in a nut shell! 

Whilst I'm able to walk, it is very difficult, some days more than others. So I have a powerchair. 

Don't pitty me. I'm happy (most of the time!) and as the cliché goes, things could be much much worse! 

   
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Again, please share these posts far and wide!
       
  www.CMT.org.uk
    
If you are interested in finding out more, the UK's official charity for the disease, CMT United Kingdom, have a wealth of information.
 
xxSAMxx
  

3 comments:

  1. Hi, Sam, just found you through Kelly Donovan, she's a peach! I have never heard of CMT but always enjoy learning and especially medical things. I have multiple sclerosis so some of these nerve things I can relate to and others not so much. I will read more about it.

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  2. I have just discovered you on Instagram and was curious to find out more about you. I have never heard of this disease until now and I am astounded at the crafts you create. I admire you and take comfort in your admonishments not to pity you. Strength, courage and a great outlook teaches us all something. My husband and I are going through some trying times, so thanks for reminding me "it could be worse". Take care and keep on crafting. ETS

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  3. Hey Sam, you are truly an inspirational woman. With an awesome attitude. Soft hugs. Pat Porter

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I really appreciate the time taken to read my posts and leave a message. It means a lot to me.

Thank you,

xxSAMxx