- Narcolepsy
- Interviews
Christopher's interview
How did all start?
Looking back at it, my first signs of narcolepsy showed up in Middle School. Cataplexy during sports and working out. I had Strep alot as a kid, which I believe is what triggered it.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, I was diagnosed in my early twenties. Not that long compared to most.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Not exactly sure what this question is asking.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Provigil, Family Support, Education and Schedule
What have been your biggest difficulties?
In the past 2-3 years my Narcolepsy has gotten worse. The mental fog and autonomous actions have become debilitating. I had to leave my job because I could no longer safely perform.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
I have been really lucky that my family and friends have been really supportive. Educating them has been key.
What things have you stopped doing?
I can no longer drive for anymore than 20 minutes and even with that I limit my driving quite a bit. I had to stop being a Mechanical Engineer because I couldn't be sure what was real and what was dream. Found alot of inconsistencies and mistakes.
What do you think about the future?
I'm hopeful for the future. Still trying to figure out how to best handle myself. I am hopeful for the studies on Orexin.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
I would say my 20s-to mid 30s. I had my narcolepsy somewhat under control and enjoyed watching my 3 boys growing up :)
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Fly Airplanes! Cross country road trip.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Living from one bedtime to another.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Educate yourself and find a good doctor that supports you.
