2023-09-15 16:45:48
Title: Living with ALS: Sevgi May’s Battle Against Progressive Paralysis
In a recent interview with RTL, Sevgi May shared her experience of living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurological disease that gradually paralyzes the muscles. May’s journey with ALS began with small insecurities while running, as she often stumbled and dragged her leg. Initially, she attributed these symptoms to the corona vaccination, but in June 2021, doctors diagnosed her with ALS.
As the disease progresses, May has become increasingly wobbly, ultimately necessitating the use of crutches from May 2022. However, her condition continued to deteriorate, and within five months, she switched to a walker. Six months later, she found herself reliant on a wheelchair once again.
May expressed the profound impact ALS has had on her life, stating, “The illness takes away every freedom you can imagine.” Simple everyday tasks, like going to the bakery or making breakfast, have become immense challenges for her. The uncertain progression of ALS weighs heavily on her mind, with thoughts of worsening symptoms occupying her nights. The fear of the unknown can be overwhelming.
The course of ALS is often similar for many affected individuals, with progressive paralysis affecting different parts of the body. May describes the sequence as starting with the legs, followed by the arms, then impacting breathing and ultimately the lungs. Reflecting on this pattern, she admits, “I hope this doesn’t all happen to me.”
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is characterized by the degeneration of nerve cells responsible for muscle movement. Its exact cause remains unknown, but it most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 50 and 70. Although life expectancy is significantly reduced for many diagnosed with ALS, there have been exceptional cases such as the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, who lived for 55 years after his diagnosis.
Sevgi May holds onto hope for a similar outcome, longing to defy the odds and continue living her life despite the challenges imposed by ALS.
Reading tip: For more information about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), you can refer to the Gesundheitslexikon: Amyotrophe Lateralsklerose (ALS) (Health Lexicon: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)).
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#illness #takes #freedom