Hey,
My name is Tom, I was diagnosed with C.I.D.P in 2007, at the age of 14. I was very much an active member of society, being an avid rugby player and a First Stubbington Scout. I was always out and about, full of life. I became unwell and hid my symptoms from my family. I was falling over at school and struggling but didn't tell my parents till it really came to the crunch!! The first doctor i met regarding my symptoms did not believe me. Sadly my strength as a rugby player was a blessing, and a curse. Nevertheless, the real shame was having others bathe me and help me in the toilet...
When I was taken into hospital, i was given multiple tests and examinations. My family were informed that i potentially had a brain tumour. But, following a long date with an MRI scanner, and an EMG, my situation had become enlightened. Whilst an EMG was, as im sure many on here have experienced, one of the most painful procedures i had been given, being told an answer to the mysterious deteriation of life as i knew it, was to become the begining of the most heartbreaking and educational experiences my life could be offered.
Life was tough, and did not become easier. I was at one point experiencing daily IVIG Immunogloulin infusions, with no signs of promise being made. Like Sisyphus, it appeared my life was condemed by the gods, and the rock which i had been forever rolling and fighting with, to gain my happiness, was to begin falling and crashing down the mountain to its end, with no signs of a return.
Watching the world burn from the inside out, on the front row seat to ammargeddon, appealed to be greatly. It took a great deal of work and friendship for those feelings to become dormant. I have recently, despite having to retake a great deal of school and college work, completed a degree in philosophy.
Part of my journey entailed a great many battles with my fitness. Whilst it was humilating, having to learn to walk, run, lift pencils and coordinate my body, on multiple occassions, the drive given by those around me got me to where i am today; in remission and telling C.I.D.P where to shove itself.
I fear in all i have been through, there truely are greater evils to be overcome. I am thankful that my body responded to some form of treatment, with minimal damage other than a bruised pride, a small tremour and the potential fear towards its return.
In honour of this i am going to try give back in the best way i know how, an sadly whilst it is not for C.I.D.P i am climbing Kilimanjaro in September to provide clean water to communities in Africa.
I am here for anyone who needs help, and shall be dedicating myself to bringing it for as long as thier is air in my lungs.