[misc.handicap] Guillain-Barre

newmark@auvm.auvm.edu (Shandon Silverlock) (04/19/91)

Index Number: 15021

I'm a newcomer to this group.  I'm not sure I can really call myself
handicapped anymore, but for 2 years I definitely fit within any definition
of the word.  And it entirely turned my life upside down.  Since then I
have become very interested in the areas of disability awareness, and
handicap accessibility.

In 1986 I was a Junior in high school and contracted Guillain-Barre
Syndrome.  It's a disease that attacks the myelin insulation around
the nerves.  Within two days I went from a fully active teenager to
paralyzed from the neck down.  Myelin grows back, but extremely slowly.
I spent four months in a hospital close to 9 months in a wheelchair,
and it was 2 years before I could say I was recovered.

A couple things:

1: I am interested in getting in touch with any other people who have
experienced Guillain-Barre.

2: I am interested in learning sign language, and wonder if any
particular book can be recommended.  (or course.  I go to college
in the DC area.  Nearby Galluadet, but I have no idea whether students
from other universities can take courses there)