Walking Troubles

June 2011

            This morning, I was casually eating my cereal as I saw Phil waddle down the stairs, clutching the banister for support. I dug up the book to see what other things might occur in addition to his having trouble walking. For a second, I pessimistically thought that things could only get worst (luckily I was wrong). While reading the book, I realized that myotonic dystrophy does not only cause muscle weakness but also cataracts, premature balding, heart problems, diabetes, and in more severe cases, mental retardation. I looked through my mom’s phone book to find the number of the doctor that helped us about three years ago. When I got hold of her, she assured me that if these things were to occur, they would most likely have happened already. She further explained that balding could happen in time, but that isn’t anything dangerous, just unfortunate. One symptom that might progress over time is the ability to easily walk and grip things…but it would slowly progress over the span of about 50 years, meaning Phil should have plenty of time to live his life. I was so relieved to hear this!