The Diagnosis

About five weeks ago we finally were given the actual diagnosis for daddy. He was diagnosed with PSP- Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative brain disease that has no known cause, treatment or cure. It affects nerve cells that control walking, balance, mobility, vision, speech, and swallowing. Five to six people per 100,000 will develop PSP. 

Common symptoms of PSP include:

• Loss of balance
• Changes in personality
• Loss of eye movement, including vertical movement
• Weakened movement of mouth and tongue
• Slurred speech
• Trouble swallowing

PSP is terminal, however the life expectancy of someone with PSP is 5-7 years. Sadly, diagnosis is difficult and once diagnosed, the person normally is already 2 years in or more. There is NO CURE and there is NO TREATMENT. There are a few medications to help "deal" with symptoms. But in my daddy's case they don't offer much relief. 

They believe daddy to be at least 3 years in, if not more. His symptoms are progressing rather quickly. His eyes do not move much anymore, and his eyelids do not stay open very long at all. Swallowing is beginning to get difficult; and he is beginning to get rigid. 

Life is changing quickly. My mom is having to be even more of a caretaker and also work full time. We don't know how much longer we have until he can no longer walk, talk, or swallow. 

This battle we are now facing is our Goliath. We are heartbroken, scared, and having to learn how to do life a whole new way. We know where our strength comes from and we are going in with all the strength of the Lord! 

We don't like this diagnosis and didn't ask for it, but we know that in all things God will receive the glory. 

If you would like to learn more about PSP please visit the CURE PSP website