LGMD "焦点访谈"

 

名称:  Darlene    年龄:   65 yrs. old

国家: 美国

LGMD 子类型:    Non-Dysferlin Miyoshi Myopathy

 

您在几岁时被确诊:

I was diagnosed at the age of 64.

您最初的症状是什么？:

In retrospect, I now realize that symptoms began in my 40’s or even earlier.  I’ve always been active, but as the years went by, skills like running, skiing and skating became increasingly difficult, so I did other activities such as biking, kettlebells, weight and CrossFit training.  I coped with my Raynaud’s symptoms by dressing warmer.  Visible muscle wasting in my calves in my early 60’s began my year long journey to diagnosis.  By then, 80-90% of both gastrocnemius muscles had been replaced by fat.

您是否有其他家庭成员患有 LGMD：

No, but two sisters have/had juvenile diabetes.  One died of heart complications from the disease at 53.  The other, now 58 and in fragile health, had a kidney/pancreas implant at 39.

您认为 LGMD 患者在生活中面临的最大挑战是什么？:

As the co-owner of a CrossFit gym, I’m constantly trying to find the appropriate balance between working hard enough to challenge and keep my healthy muscles strong and mobile, yet not so hard that I destroy my at-risk muscles.  So far, the impact of the disease has been minimal on my life:  I continue to look, feel and move younger than the average 65-year old.  I try to focus on what I am able to do each day, and remind myself that everyone, not just me, faces a progressive degenerative condition called aging.

您最大的成就是什么？:

Growing up with diabetic sisters impressed upon me the importance of good nutrition and regular exercise.  I understand that what I put into my mouth matters, and that adequate sleep and recovery from stress is essential, no matter what ails you.  While I can’t know for certain that healthy habit help minimize my symptoms, I choose to believe they do, and will continue to be as proactive as possible in that regard.  As a coach, I’m able to model the excellent health practices and work closely with our members so they reap those benefits themselves.  I became a CrossFit coach at age 60 (after a 35-year career as a newspaper journalist) and it’s gratifying to have others tell you that you’ve helped them change their lives for the better.

LGMD 是如何影响您成为今天的自己的？

Decades before my official diagnosis, puzzling physical limitations pushed me to find other ways to be active and contribute in a community of competitive outdoor endurance athletes.  Being resilient, physically active and strong is a part of my identity that I will work to hold on to as long as I am able.  I’m counting on that mindset to help me face whatever uncertainties the future holds.

您希望世界了解 LGMD 的哪些方面？:

Muscular Dystrophy is a rare disease with infinite individual variations.  And since there is no cure, and little financial incentive for drug companies to find one, a diagnosis is often the end to health care professionals interest in you.  Find support where you can, and be your own advocate.

如果您的 LGMD 明天就能 "治愈"，您首先想做的是什么？:

I would love to cross country ski.  We live on a trail system that connects to the 54K American Birkebeiner Ski Trail and  I would love to experience the thrill of gracefully gliding along the hills and valleys of this beautiful forested trail.

 

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