New "ologist"

Like I have said many times - Jim collects "ologists" like people collect stamps.  Today we met a new one - his new FTD neurologist, Dr. Appleby.  Dr. Appleby is new to Cleveland Clinic via John Hopkins.  He specializes in young onset dementia. 

There was nothing wrong with our old FTD neurologist - in fact we really liked him.  Problem was he was a Univeristy Hospital doctor and my Cleveland Clinic insurance did not like that he played for the other team!!  However, I take great comfort that our "team" now all works for the same hospital AND that Dr. Appleby and Dr. Lerner (UH doc) are actually having dinner together tonight!  I also found out that Dr. Appleby lives right around the corner from us - here in Brunswick.  Now I will be on the look out for him around town. 

Not much to report on the visit.  More of an intial assessment since we are starting new with him.  Suprise, suprise, he addeded another pill (increased dosage on 1 current medication.) Actually it is only 1/2 a pill.  The other option was to add 2 pills/day.  So I think that brings Jim up to 180 pills/week (not counting pain and as needed anxiety medications.) 

Dr. Appleby also ordered another blood test.  This one looks for the most common gene to cause FTD.  It is attached to a gene that also causes Parkinson's - which Jim has a lot of Parkinson's-like symptoms - so it is possible that it will come back positive.  PLEASE pray it does not.  IF it does that means there is a 50% chance that the girls have the FTD gene.  Though I would love to find a cause, treatment and cure for FTD and ALS - I do not want this to be the way.  I only pray that if this is positive and knowing Jim is a carrier will add to any research and discovery of a cure.  There HAS to be at least treatment if not a cure by the time our kids get to middle age.  Basically, if you are a carrier you WILL get FTD.

There is going to be a wait for the results.  So far all genetic testing has been negative - but the previous tests were for ALS genes and only 5% of familial ALS has a known gene link. 

So on that positive note I am going to sign off for now.  Take Care.

PS - My dad is having open heart surgery this coming Thursday (February 9).  He will have double bypass, a valve replacement and a valve repair.  So if you could throw in an extra prayer or two it would be appreciated.