Friedreich’s ataxia

On Saturday, May 10, we arrived at the hospital. The staff, doctors, and other patients are all really nice. I had blood work, physical therapy assessment, and an MRI. During my assessment, they said my main problem was my balance. I had to touch my right heel to my left knee and drag it down my calf and visa versa, I could do it but it was unsteady.

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Monday and Tuesday, May 12 and 13^, I had physical therapy, acupuncture, and electric wave therapy. I like all of it; my physical trainer is teaching me Chinese words, and I’m teaching him English words.

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Wednesday, May 14, I received my first stem cell injection. It wasn’t as bad as I though it would be. I didn’t have a headache or fever or any symptoms that patients usually experience.

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Tuesday, May 15, I had another assessment with the doctors and after my first injection (with my right side), I could touch my right heel to my left knee and drag it down my calf and it was perfect. For my left side, they said needs a little work. I could also stand up and stay by myself; the doctors seemed impressed. After my assessment, I had physical therapy and I ended up over doing it. The doctors kept me on painkillers and in bed for 2 days.

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I am finally getting my strength back and feel really good. I have the day off tomorrow, and on Monday I have an IV stem cell treatment.