ENCEPHALITIS CASES

Encephalitis Cases

Sherry

Hi, my name is Sherry. I contracted HSE (Herpes Simplex Encephalitis) back in 1977. I was 11 years old at the time and there wasn't much out there for treatment except supportive care. My case was unfortunately severe and I was in a coma for numerous days and not expected to live.

I spent a month and a half in the hospital. Three and a half weeks were in the pediatric ICU and the remainder on a regular pediatric ward. I lost a lot of weight about 20 lbs., had seizures which were easily controlled by Tegretol. (later,which I outgrew), spinal taps, EEG's, CAT scan, arteriogram and jugular venograms of the brain. I had to relearn how to eat and speak all over. In 1979, I spent 5 months at Children's Hospital in Boston receiving any types of therapy that was available (OT, PT, ST, psycho, behavioral and hypno therapies). I also met a wonderful sleep specialist while there. I want thank him for always making himself available to my family and myself to this day. I made many gains while there, but I missed my family. Recovery was and is a long slow process. I now live with a severe and unique sleeping syndrome, chronic neuropathic facial pain, dysarthria, and sleep apnea. I think thats enough.

I have the most wonderful family anyone could ask for. If it wasn't for them I don't know where I would be today, especially my Mom. The support one receives is so vital in the recovery process.

I have come a long way and was fortunate enough that I could go to college and got an A.S. degree and a B.A. degree. Then I ventured into the scary and exciting aspect of trying to live on my own. Which I managed to do until I found the wonderful man that I would marry. We married in 1998. Despite my disabilities, I do my best to live my life the best way I can. I live in Massachusetts. God bless everyone who has had this terrible disease and those who care for us.
Best wishes,

Sherry
Massachusetts, U.S.A.

Posted: March 3, 2001

[ADULTS]	[CHILDREN]	[HELP]	[SUBMIT STORY]	[EMAIL]	[HOME]