Lectricman Skis
His Way
to Diagnosis

by Andrew Hall aka lectricman

  I was diagnosed with MS twelve years ago.

  In 1996 after skiing (falling) my legs and feet were cold and numb.  When I went home, I put my feet near the wood stove to warm up.

  When I touched my feet an hour later, they were hot to the touch, but still felt cold.  I thought my numbness was due to injuring my neck when I fell. When I saw the neurologist, I was then thinking MS because my Mom also has MS.  I had an MRI and it showed plaques. 

  I have been on Betaseron for ten years now.  When I first was diagnosed, Betaseron was not yet approved by the FDA.  You could be part of a study which you may give you a placebo.  The Neurologist also gave me that option or do the homeopathic route.  I chose the homeopathic way and began taking a handful of vitamins.  I was getting worse and often having flare-ups.

  When Betaseron was finally approved, I went on that.  I then took my medical records to an MS specialist and he confirmed that my neurologist was right, and was doing what he would have.  Since I’ve been taking the Betaseron, I have not had any flare-ups.

  I’m lucky that I caught it early and went on an interferon.

  Now, I am able to live a happy full life with a little modification and reminders.  I’m also very lucky.  My wife and son (son is pictured above, and he’s my entertainment) are understanding and a huge support.  I’m an electrician by trade and firefighter, but I can’t do that stuff anymore because I can’t climb ladders now.  Luckily I have a desk job now.

 

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