Halting the disease and standing strong – Marcie A, Arvada, CO

In the early 2000s I was diagnosed with Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS) a slowly progressing neuromuscular disease. Symptoms include tightening of tendons, muscle spasticity and a progressing degeneration in neuromuscular function resulting in physical decline requiring the use of a cane, then a walker and eventually a mobility scooter and ankle foot orthotics (AFO).

My prognosis today is continuing to live with a disease that is life altering and with progressively less mobility. This process has ebbed and flowed over the last decade. In 2016 complications of the spasticity and shortening tendons resulted in a rapid and complete erosion of my hip joint requiring a hip replacement. Loss of muscle and core strength due to complications prior to surgery were a significant set back for my mobility.

This is where Holly Benson entered the story, after completing PT under my doctor’s care I elected to work with a personal trainer to attempt to regain anything I could and if possible slow the progression of my PLS. Holly has been the miracle worker, helping me to surpass my mobility, strength and capabilities with life activities to pre-hip surgery levels. Nothing will ultimately eliminate the progression of PLS but today as a result of Holly I can say I am holding my own and in the fight everyday to stand strong, both physically and metaphorically.