My husband was diagnosed in 2009 at age 55. His symptoms began in 2006 with numbness in his toes and, like yours, has now progressed to numbness and muscle atrophy in his feet and calves. Balance, weakness, and tripping are also his biggest problems. Since June, 2010, he has developed drop foot in both feet and is wearing orthotics on both legs. We recently saw a new specialist at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis who strongly recommends rituxan therapy. He said it most likely will not reverse the symptoms but should stop the progression. At this point Blue Cross is unwilling to pay for the treatment. We are concerned about the side effects of the treatments, but he would like to stop or slow the progression.

I was so thankful to see your letter. We don't know anyone with this illness. I was happy to read that the treatment you had has stopped your progression. Are you continuing to have the chemotheraphy treatments? Are you familiar with rituxan? We would appreciate hearing from you and hope you are continuing to do well.

Jill Tucker (aka wyngaerde)