muscle weakness

Toddlers Can Experience Chronic Pain, Too

Recently, I reached out to some other moms in our Pompe family to ask about a concern I’ve had for a while. I’ve noticed my 4-year-old son, Cayden, is complaining of pain more than ever. It’s mainly in his legs, but I assume he gets aches and pains elsewhere.

When COVID-19 Came to My House

My family had managed to avoid being exposed to COVID-19 until recently. Earlier this month, on the same day I got my vaccine booster shot, I was exposed to the virus by my mom. She woke up feeling very sick the next day, and shortly after that, all…

Unable to Speak, My Son Uses Nonverbal Communication

My 3-year-old son, Cayden, is nonverbal, which presents some communication challenges. But it isn’t the end of the world, because there are many different forms of nonverbal communication that can be used when someone is unable to speak. Cayden has infantile-onset Pompe disease, which has caused…

Recognizing My Son for His Abilities, Not His Disabilities

Oftentimes, a person with a rare disease may struggle with day-to-day activities such as walking, talking, eating, and getting dressed. This is the case for my 3-year-old son, Cayden. At the young age of 1 month, Cayden was diagnosed with a very rare genetic disease known as infantile-onset Pompe…

How Will Pompe Disease Affect My Work Life?

If you have late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) and are employed, or are considering employment, you’re likely going to need some workplace adjustments, particularly as the disorder progresses. Here’s some information about how Pompe disease might affect your work life. What is Pompe disease? Pompe disease is a debilitating…

Respite Care for Pompe Disease

Patients with Pompe disease may need constant care. Providing such care can be mentally, physically, and emotionally depleting for a caregiver. Sooner or later, you will need to refuel your body and mind. Respite care can give you the chance to rest, relax, and restore. About Pompe disease Pompe disease…

Massage Therapy for Pompe Disease

If you have late-onset Pompe disease, you likely will need to see many specialists such as pulmonary physicians, cardiologists, and physiotherapists to help you manage the disorder’s different symptoms. To help with muscle weakness and other Pompe disease-related symptoms, it also may be beneficial to add a massage…

Spoon Theory for Late-onset Pompe Disease Patients

If you have late-onset Pompe disease, you’re likely dealing with muscle weakness, aches, and cramps, and possibly headaches and fatigue. Many people may not understand how overwhelming all this can be, and it may not always be easy to explain. However, an analogy called the spoon theory can help…