Can't Figure Out Why You Are So Sick? Maybe It's Mitochondrial Disease

If you are ill,and don't know why...here is a hint! If three or more organ systems are involved....think Mitochondrial Disease! This week, we are honored by the presence of Jean Sheperd. A 70 year old Scottish born Canadian, Jean Shepherd lives on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.  After retiring on medical grounds from being an educator of deaf children, it took six years before she was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease in 1991.  Jean’s experience with being a caregiver for her mother with Frontal Lobe dementia and, (given the addition of profound bilateral deafness, swallowing problems and bladder problems), most likely Mitochondrial Disease and of raising identical twin sons, (one now diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease), in the days before Mitochondrial Disease was even heard of! This gave her a broad-based knowledge which she has drawn upon as group owner of several international support groups for over ten years.  Jean has volunteered for the patient-oriented Mitochondrial Disease Action Network  for a number of years as adult support and works hard at spreading awareness of Mitochondrial Disorders. Join us as we explore this often overlooked aspect of ALL CHRONIC ILLNESSES!