LAGUNA WOODS
A group for people suffering from post-polio syndrome has started in Laguna Woods.
Dr. Bill Schwied, who contracted polio in Okinawa, Japan, in 1947 and now suffers from post-polio syndrome, began the group last month.
Its purpose is to educate people and to help members find resources, adequate physicians and to look into disability issues such as rights to transportation services.
The syndrome stems from overuse of the non-affected muscles and nerves, which had to compensate for those damaged by the disease.
Decades of strain can cause pain and weakness in the so-called good limbs or parts of the body, as well as related symptoms such as muscle spasms and cramping, persistent fatigue and a sensitivity to cold.
Roughly 75 post-polio sufferers or their caregivers, many from Laguna Woods and others from Mission Viejo, Lake Forest and San Clemente, were on hand for the group’s first meeting Aug. 30.
For information, contact Beulah Harrington at (949) 830-6315 or e-mail Beulahharrington@msn.com.
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