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Mary’s Story (Addison’s Disease)

Mary's Story (Addison's Disease)I was in middle school when my symptoms started. I would wake up five minutes before the bus would come, then sleep the eight minute ride all the way to school, then sleep through each class, sleep on the bus all the way home, and then sleep all night. I was a straight A student but by mid year I was failing every class.

My grandma knew something was wrong and she rushed me to the doctor. He went from head to toe examining me. He said, “I know what is wrong .”  He then had me life flighted to the children’s hospital. The doctor said that if I would have slept one more day I wouldn’t be here.  I’m now 23 and every time I get sick it goes to my lungs because that is the weakest point in my body.

I now have stage one liver failure because of the growth hormone shots. This disease needs more awareness and needs a cure. I will out live my expectancy whether they believe it or not. I will not give up, I will fight to the end because I want there to be a cure. This is my goal, this is what keeps me going to college for pre-med, this is my life and I am taking charge !

Mary
Ohio
Submitted 10/20/2013

The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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3 comments

  1. mo

    Mary, I am so sorry that you have this disease. I have secondary adrenal insuffiency and need to take steroids everyday, just like you. Keep strong Girl! Thanks for sharing your story.
    maureen

    • Steve

      Hi Mary…..can I have your contact plz. My mum has been diagnosed with Addison about three years now.

  2. Cathie

    I also have AI. My weakness is also my lungs. Was born with
    Dbl Pnemonia. Had a Crisis in April 2011. Viral A turned to Pnemonia, was intubated in PICU for 2 weeks:(
    Just got out of hospital this time with PEs. I also have 2 brain tumors, FMS, Hypopituitary and now hypertension. Taking care of yourself with one element is extremely hard. Having Several diseases is a Daily Strugle. You will not find a Stronger women, with compassion and determination to live 🙂 as one of us Addie’s 🙂 Keep up the fight Every one. We are not alone.

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