Paul's Story

My name is Paul Taylor, and I am 62 years old. Until my MG diagnosis, I was a very active and hardworking individual. I live in Cambridge, Ontario.

My diagnosis took about a year. I knew I needed to see someone because I was experiencing blurred vision and unexplained weakness. Initially the diagnosis was high blood sugar, but when my symptoms worsened 6 months later, I was diagnosed with CN4 palsy and possibly Bell’s palsy. When my symptoms continued to worsen, I was referred to a neurologist. This is when I was at last diagnosed with ocular MG.

My typical days vary widely. I have general weakness and muscle spasms (in my mouth, eyes, arms, and lips in particular). Chewing is difficult, as is swallowing. I have frequent headaches, too. Triggers for MG flareups include stress, heat, and overheating.

Even on my “good days” I feel weak, though having a good sleep the night before is a big help. On my “bad days” I feel very weak, tired, and have no enthusiasm to do anything at all.

Good support from the people in my life is a big help and means a lot. My wife, my son, and my friends mean the world to me. It is important to network with other MG patients and to share knowledge with each other. I appreciate when the people around me know I am struggling and try to keep positive and not make things worse.

Most of the information about MG is from the U.S. I would love to find a small group of those affected by MG close by, that I can meet up with monthly to share our experiences and support one another.