Dear Editor,

MSA stands for Multiple System Atrophy. This is a very rare disease often mistaken for Parkinson’s. At one point it was called Shy-Drager Syndrome. It is a progressive neurological that affects men and women usually in their 50’s.

Some of the beginning signs of MSA are bladder problems. Along with this, other issues arise with stiffness, slow movement, standing up, fainting, difficulty turning in bed and changes in writing.

This disease has a life expectancy of 7-9 years. This disease progresses very quickly. In time, the body may become immobilized, heightened emotional response, swallowing problems, difficulty chewing and choking. The patient will go from walking to walking with the aid of a cane, to a wheelchair and eventually become bed bound.

At this time there is no cure for MSA. Working with medications to help each stage is what is used. Blood Pressure can become a major problem along with this disease. Very few professionals are in a complete understanding of this disease. This disease can change day to day and minute to minute. It can be scary for families and caregivers.

My brother suffered from this for 7 years. My object and goal is to reach out to anyone who wants to become more educated with MSA. It was scary for me and it was difficult to stay ahead of it. I don’t want anyone else to have to lack knowledge like I did. I want to help. If you think there is a possibility of you or someone you know may have this, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Maybe I can be of assistance to you and answer some of your questions. I will provide a link if you would feel more comfortable getting information from this.
http://www.multiple-system-atrophy.org/

Sincerely,
Terry Shepherd
Alvin Miller’s sister