Great question/topic! With my initial diagnosis of idiopathic peripheral neuropathy I'm not sure what was more frightening for me, the diagnosis or the Neurologist's answer to my question "Now what can I do!?" His answer was basically "nothing"! I have always been prepared prior to going to all doctor appointments. Years ago, while assisting my father through a deadly cancer diagnosis, I swore I would NEVER just sit there and do nothing but listen. Most of my father's generation believed that doctors were god-like and you never questioned them. They are not - They are working for you to make you better! If not, fire them!

When I got home I spent hours researching all of the reports (Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Harvard Medical etc. etc.). I contacted my Neurologist's office the next day, spoke to his assistant telling her I had questions about my diagnosis. I received a "patient portal" message from the assistant the next day who said "Dr. xxxx said to check back in 12 months to see how you are doing". Screw him was my first thought and then I began doing more research. And searching for a different Neurologist!

What I have learned in the past 4 months.
1. Mayo Clinic sent me a form letter saying, "no interest in seeing you". These are my words, not their's, but it was basically my interpretation of their response.
2. HOWEVER, I found this fantastic site - connect.mayoclinic.org!! I have learned so much from this site in the past few months that has pointed me to other sites, medications, suggestions etc. that have helped me both physically and mentally! I have met so many wonderful people who are suffering but are doing something about it! It has led me to new areas of information and research that has been so helpful. Granted there is some advice you shouldn't follow up on, but you can be the judge of that!
3. Read, research, make sure you vet (examine, evaluate) the physicians you visit and make sure they make time for you, answer your questions and care about your well-being! If not, kick them to the curb!
4. If you are physically able, MOVE! Walk, exercise, move your arms and legs, dance to your favorite songs (fast & slow) anything that gets you moving is good!
5. Seek positivity in your life - As PitBull once said "Everyday above ground is a good day!!"
Love you all!! Have a great day!
Mike