Reflections of a Peacemaker: A Portrait Through Heartsongs contains 250 previously unpublished poems by Mattie Stepanek, including his final poem. Written between the ages 3 and 13, some of the poems were funny, some were sad, and all were insightful and heartbreakingly honest.

Range of motion therapy refers to a form of physical therapy designed to stretch the muscles, keep the joints flexible, decrease pain, and lessen the development of contractures for many individuals with neuromuscular disease, even those who cannot engage in more strenuous activities.

Try the six quizzes related to the Neuromuscular Diseases site, including the newest, the Neuromuscular Disease and the Feet Quiz. Quizzes give you a chance to test your knowledge in important areas that affect those with neuromuscular disease. Plus, they are fun and you just might learn something

With the weather turning nicer, I get outside to walk more often. Walking for exercise has been recommended to me by my physician, and is often recommended to those with various types neuromuscular disease. About a year ago, I discovered the benefits of using walking poles while walking.

Pes planus (flat foot, fallen arch) refers to an abnormally flattened arch. When standing, the entire foot will touch the floor. Pes planus is sometimes observed in individuals with Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) and other neuromuscular diseases, but not as often as pes cavus (high arch) is observed.

Pes cavus, also called high foot arch or high instep, refers to an abnormally high arch and shortening in the foot. Pes cavus, caused by muscle imbalance, often occurs in individuals with Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) and Friedrich’s Ataxia (FA), and less frequently in other neuromuscular diseases.

Increasingly, I have opportunitites to speak to others about neuromuscular disease. I sometimes experience performance anxiety before or during my speaking, but have been learning to manage my stage fright.

This year when I asked about receiving a handicapped parking permit, I received paperwork for a permanent placard. Find out more about who qualifies for a handicapped parking permit and how to obtain one if you do.

Weakened respiratory and upper airway muscles caused by neuromuscular disorder can cause insufficient breathing during sleep in both adults and children, leading to increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During obstructive sleep apnea, a person has reduced air flow or stops breathing.

With correct foot care and regular inspection, I can minimize problems and keep my feet as healthy as possible. If you have neuropathy, make sure to speak with your physician about the proper care of your feet.