Chronicles of a Medical Oddity
Introduction

I have only started thinking of myself as a medical oddity since November of last year. You would never know it by looking at me. Other than being shorter than usual at four feet ten inches, I look pretty normal. My ailments are internal, one that has affected me my entire life, and the other came to light during my 40th year.

The first disorder was diagnosed when I was twelve and at that time it was not common knowledge, even among doctors. I found out that I had Osteogenesis Imperfecta. It was introduced to me by referring to it as “brittle bone disease.” This explained the many broken bones I had when younger. I was lucky in that I had a pretty mild form. Since learning more about it in adulthood, I have learned that many people with this disorder can become physically disabled at any early age. There is an excellent documentary called “Children of Glass” shown on the Discovery channel that will give a glimpse into their lives.

The second diagnosis, which I received 28 years later, was Multiple Sclerosis. It seemed to me to be pretty ironic that I would get a disease that affected my balance when I had spent most of my life trying not to fall. It also showed up at a time in my life when my OI was a bigger concern because Menopause would soon be rearing its ugly head. Menopause can be a problem because it can bring on more bone loss.

I know I sound like I am having a pity party for myself, and I did for the first couple of months. I suddenly had a lot of free time on my hands while I was recovering from my MS episode, so I did quite a lot of reflection. I realized that while I had some bad times in my life, I also had some great moments and great support from family and friends. I decided to share my life stories in the hope that they may be interesting, entertaining, and give me something to do while I figure out what comes next. So I hope you will enjoy reading my stories. If nothing else, I am unique, probably the only OI/MS patient you will ever come across.

Chapter one will be coming soon…