Norma, CA,USA

Your web site is an excellent resource for those of us who have this mysterious malady. Perhaps some day the mystery of its cause and cure will be solved because we are willing to share our experiences and concerns.

My diagnosis was made after about five years of noticing the onset of tremors. The physician to whom I first mentioned the problem said he had never heard of such a thing and when I asked if there was anyone else I should consult, he replied, "No." After a few years, when the tremors did not disappear and I finally convinced myself that this was not my imagination, I consulted a young general practitioner who was not long out of medical school. She seemed to know what it could be and immediately referred me to the neurologist, who agreed that this is a rare disease and who took the time to research it. I have been, since then, taking a small dosage of Mysoline, but have noticed recently that it is becoming less effective. I will be increasing the dosage gradually, with my doctor's approval, and hopefully will get to a more comfortable level.

I found the phrase used by one correspondent,"coming out of the closet" to be particularly apropos to me. Because I look quite normal I don't like to use a portable seat, but I am always embarrassed to be trying to find something to lean on, or a place to sit when standing in line or, worst of all, at a social function. Or trying to have a conversation with a neighbor I meet on the street. My dilemma is whether I should just keep moving and have them think I am snooty, or try to explain why I have to keep moving (or sit on the curb)! My husband is especially supportive (literally), and helps by taking my place in line whenever possible or watching for when I need to be rescued. I still enjoy gardening, although I have to do much of it sitting down or on my knees. It's amazing how much you can do if you really want to do it.
I still have many projects to do that will take some ingenuity to accomplish, but I look forward to the challenge.

Thank you to you and all who share their experiences on your web site. At the risk of sounding like Pollyanna, there is still much to be grateful for in our lives.

Norma