Name:     Heather

Age:   60 years old

Country:  USA

LGMD Sub-Type:  LGMD2A/R1 calpain 3-related

At what age were you diagnosed?

I was diagnosed at the age of 30.

What were your first SYMPTOMS?

My first symptoms included walking with a side-to-side gait, struggling to do stairs, and falling.

Do you have other family members who have LGMD?

No, I am the only one in my family with LGMD.

What do you find to be the greatest challenges in living with LGMD?

The greatest challenge for me is to stay as independent as possible without assistance.  So far, I’ve been able to do it.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishments are my two children, continuing to live independently, and driving my van while seated in my power wheelchair.

How has LGMD influenced you into becoming the person you are today?

LGMD has influenced me by making me a more independent and positive person.

What do you want the world to know about LGMD?

I want the world to know that you can live a happy “normal” lifestyle if you put your mind to it even if you are in a wheelchair.  I also want the world to know that I haven’t let LGMD get me down.  I live every day to the fullest with a smile on my face.

If your LGMD could be “cured” tomorrow, what would be the first thing that you would want to do?

If I was cured tomorrow, the first thing I would do is run a marathon with my son and daughter. They are my world!