Living with Huntington's Disease

Hello
I found out about Hunningtons disease when my grandmother was put into the nursing home when I was 9. I then heard about it again when I was in High School. Then in college I found out that I was at risk.

My father took me to a genetic doctor and they let me know I could not find out until my mother knew for herself. WOW…..I was understanding but I really wanted to know. I waited because my mom didn’t want to know. She started to show signs after about 5 years of her being out of control she finally admitted she was acting like her mother and wanted to get tested.

SHe tested positive and was treated with medications for depression and violent mood swings. It was finally my turn to get tested. I made the appointments did the counseling and chickend out. I waited 4 years and then did the testing. I was not expecting the answer I got. I was gene positive. I have spent a lot of time thinking about the disease and what it means to be positive.

I was single at the time wondering what person would marry me now. I used it as a defense mechanism. I would ward off men with it and whoever stayed well he was the keeper. Some were concerned but not to put off by knowing. But my husband he was the best. He wanted me for me, truly. He didn’t care one bit he was willing to care for me and help me through. He is my knight in shining armor. We have been married for 5 years.

He worries about my health but is very attentive to my worries and helps me through them. I have upto this year worried about every little thing being the onset of the disease. I go and participate in the research studies every 6 months. I am trying to live everyday to the fullest. I am going back to college to finish my degree.

I pray they find a cure but everything happens for a reason. My family would not have know Jesus Christ if it were not for this disease. We have all come to give our lives to the Lord through the tough times that we have had dealing with the disease. So I thank God for the trial and I pray that I may help others know the hope that I have in Christ Jesus. Blessings to you all.