Clinical Study Participation

We all know that before a medication can be approved it must be put through clincal studies. Recently I was contacted, through NARCOM, to take part in a study being done at the Arkansas University Medical Sciences Neurology department.
I have made two trips to Little Rock, so far, and everyone there is wonderful!
It's a 200 mile drive, each way, for me to reach the university. But, I know that my participation could mean better treatment for those of us with MS.
What surprised me was that I was the only volunteer for the study. Since this is not a double blind study and whoever takes part will be taking one of the approved injecables, I do not understand why more people did not volunteer.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Hugs and Blessings...Annie

Mood:  not sure

Today in Arkansas has been another scorcher! I don't even want to know how hot it actually is. It seems like I have been hiding indoors for months, now. And I can't wait until the cooler weather gets here!
Hope your day was magical!
Hugs and Blessings...Annie

Mood:  chatty
Topic: Personal MS Stories

At the age of nine (1965) my first Multiple Sclerosis symptom reared it's ugly head. I was unable to walk for a day and it greatly frightened me. At the time I had no idea what caused it and it wasn't until 1997 that I was finally diagnosed with MS.
Why the long wait in 'diagnosis limbo'?
Medical technology had to advance enough to find the lesion in my brain.
For 32 years I went to doctor after doctor hoping for an answer to what was 'wrong' with me. My symptoms over this period included: optic neuritis, numbness and tingling, coordination problems, and occasionally extreme fatigue. When I would go to a doctor and describe these symptoms they would simply tell me to 'reduce the stress' in my life. My husband and I have four children...reducing stress is kind of unrealistic and to tell you the truth - insulting.
The day my diagnosis was made I broke out in laughter. The poor neurologist thought I was hysterical. In actuality I was simply relieved to have an answer to what had been causing me so much worry for so many years.
The day of my diagnosis I was unable to walk unassisted and from the waist down my body felt like ice cold concrete, to me. The doctor treated my symptoms and told me to research the 'ABC' drugs available.
In February 1998 I started taking Betaseron injections.
The funny thing here is that my husband and I got married in Las Vegas (1976)to avoid the blood test. For as long as I can remember I have been deathly afraid of needles. Talk about a karmic return.
Since then my health has overall improved. There are still times when I need a forearm crutch to get around. But, they are few and far between, so far. I am still taking Betaseron and I am taking part in a study to determine which injectable medication works better over a three year period of time.
Well, now you know my story. I hope you will take the time to share your story.
May the God and Goddess hold you in the palms of Their hands!
Hugs and Blessings...Annie Riversong