I have a confession to make – I have no practical experience in fundraising. I have never put together a fundraiser on my own and find the task daunting. Recently I ventured into the fundraising arena in one of the simplest ways possible, through starting a Circle of Friends with the CMTA.

This time I have determined to handle my health difficulties differently than I before. Because I opened up to others, I found the strength that I need to handle my diagnosis of Charcot Marie Tooth in an emotionally health way. In turn, I have been able to help others.

Diseases that cause symptoms by directly affecting the central nervous system, rather than the peripheral nervous system, are not classified as neuromuscular disease. The symptoms of neurological diseases often overlap with other diseases, including neuromuscular disease, making diagnosis difficult.

Students that qualify for special education must have a formal Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP specifies the support that a child with physical and/or cognitive disability needs to succeed in the least restrictive environment.

Schools in the U.S. that receive federal funding must adhere to the provision in Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 guarantees individuals with disabilities equal access to education as a civil right. Plans based on Section 504 are referred to as 504 Plans.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association Transitions Center focuses on the needs of teens and young adults with neuromuscular disease. Launched in 2011, this site offers support, information, and resources targeting this group while also raising awareness of the challenges this group will experience.

Polling places were not always easily accessible to those with mobility issues or other disabilities. Today, however, federal laws require that polling places be accessible. As member of the neuromuscular disease community, we must make sure our voices will be heard through casting our votes.

The term ataxia refers to an inability to coordinate voluntary muscular movements involving the head, trunk, and/or limbs, affecting movement and balance and sometimes speech and/or eye movement. The primary symptom of the neuromuscular disease Friedreich’s ataxia is ataxia.

Roussy-Levy Syndrome affects the peripheral nervous system. Distinctive characteristics of this variant of CMT include tremors (rhythmic shaking) in the hands and arms and unsteadiness of gait (gait ataxia).

Individuals with neuromuscular disease are considered to be at high risk for complications from influenza. Make sure to talk to your physician about influenza and if you should be vaccinated against the flu.