@upnort, you said "My neuroligist said he has not seen a case with my exact symptoms in his years at Mayo Clinic – not exactly a confidence builder!"

This is precisely the type of comment that allows me to say with confidence that your neurologist consulted his colleagues. Mayo Clinic physicians are not afraid to admit when they don't know something because they know they are supported by others at the hospital and can draw on the experience and expertise of multiple colleagues. I don't want to belabor the point, but say this to reassure you that your neurologist is not working alone.

At the same time, it's important that he give you the confidence that you need. Be honest and milk the team approach. With the advantage of hindsight, you can certainly say something "Well Doc, that's not a great confidence booster. How can we work together to get some of my quality of life back? Who else have you consulted about my case? What else can be done? What can I do?"