Myasthenia Gravis: Sheryl's Experience

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a long-term autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes a progression of weakness in skeletal muscles that become more severe with increased activity and improves with rest. The disorder can be managed through therapy but there is no known cure. A 16-year-old, Sheryl, provides information about her experience with myasthenia gravis in the youtube video “Sheryl and Myasthenia Gravis: How I Cope!”. Sheryl started to become weak in her legs, arm, and mouth. Sheryl received her diagnosis after visiting an eye specialist that suggested that she should be tested. The specialist came to this conclusion after placing an ice cube over Sheryl's droopy eyes and noticed that her eyelid started to open more, a classic symptom of MG. Through her experience with MG, Sheryl emphasizes that your identity does not have to be sacrificed at the expense of MG. She says that she is still able to enjoy the activities and occupations that she has always loved, but modification and moderation are key. I have never heard of MG, so I chose this condition to gain a stronger knowledge of signs, symptoms, and definitions. I learned that MG can be a disease characterized by extreme weakness if it is not properly maintained. A balance of activity and rest can help manage MG and facilitate occupation without sacrificing valued activity. I would recommend Sheryl’s experience for others to become more knowledgable of what MG looks like. There is an increased demand for society to become comfortable with feeling tired and weak. We often accept are hardworking lifestyles and overlook conditions such as MG as a byproduct of our lifestyle. Becoming knowledgeable about MG could allow us to identify those who have it and prevent the misdiagnosis of an overworked schedule.

Carter, Bryan (October 23, 2014). Sheryl and myasthenia gravis: how I cope. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZU2nTf6_cc

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Myasthenia gravis fact sheet. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Myasthenia-Gravis-Fact-Sheet#1

Retrieved from https://www.verywellhealth.com/myasthenia-gravis-2860863