Trudging through the diagnostic tests without an answer . . .
 

Well, so far my head and cervical spine MRI's have been ok, and now my thoracic spine MRI was clear. The neuro=opthamologist found thinning of the retina, but little else. I am now awaiting VEP (visual evoked potentials) results. He seem to lean toward NMO (neuromyelitis optica) instead of MS. Please I don't want it to be NMO . . . :(

Meanwhile, my symptoms keep progressing, my function continues to decrease, and and . . . no diagnosis. (sigh) But I am working with a physical therapist, who found some areas of atypical tightness, given my strength level (surprised me when she said I was strong!)

While in the office a couple months ago my neuro's assistant suggested I submit some art for their upcoming MS art exhibit. I posted about it in the "creativity" forum; you can see it here: http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/post652683-1.html

I hear you, LH and wish you a speedier DX and treatment, :hug:

Your Artwork is beautiful, both with sight and meaning. Thanks for sharing. :)

Wow, LH, that is beautiful work!!

Thinning retinas? Why is that, do you think?

Keep on fighting to get an answer...hope you feel better!!:hug:

The retinas could be NMO or it could be degenerative, or it could be Crohn's. Some days I feel totally screwed . . . :(

But I will keep painting as long as I can. Monet had cataracts and created some of his most moving landscapes in spite of poor eyesight. I don't know if his feet burned or his hands fell asleep or he had to run to the loo constantly though . . . but I know many of the artists we revere have suffered afflictions we can only imagine, in times where medicine had even less to offer . . .

Brilliant work LH. Colors, creative, imagination, deep meaning. Love it!

You should submit your art to more than just an MS exhibit.

I think many artists were challenged people, gifted in an area of expertise, but it gives them more insight. JMO

Did you have an LP? I hope you don't have NMO. Good luck to you.