Dystonia Medical Research Foundation

About DMRF How You Can Help Donate Promote Awareness Fundraise Join a Support Group Join the Junior Advisory Council Become a Legislative Advocate Become a Brain Donor Frequently asked questions Contact information Participate in a Clinical Trial Mission & History Board of Directors Medical & Scientific Advisory Council Musicians With Dystonia Staff For The Media Media Spokespeople About Dystonia See Dystonia Living with Dystonia: People Profiles Cure Dystonia Initiative Goal of the Cure Dystonia Initiative What Makes CDI Different? First Steps Funding 2011 Operating Plan IRS Form 990 Audited Financial Statement	Media Center People Profile: Billy McLaughlin Billy McLaughlin, 45, is a guitarist and composer. For twenty years, he astounded audiences around the world with his complex and rhythmic music. But almost a decade ago, Billy lost his career and the ability to create the music he loved. In 1997, Billy began to really struggle with playing solo guitar. His fret hand was giving him constant problems as he tried to make music. Over the next two years it became clear something much worse was threatening his career. “Something had crept in....into my hand, my wrist, my arm....an unwanted guest that wouldn't leave,” recalls Billy. “I had no name for this visitor who caused my fingers to suddenly curl, caused the music to veer out of control as audiences cringed, caused my solo career to slowly…grind to a halt.” Billy McLaughlin performed for attemdees of the 4th Children & Family Dystonia Symposium in 2007. In 2001, Billy was diagnosed with focal dystonia. It is limited to one area of his body – his left forearm, hand, and fingers. Doctors warned that Billy that he was a higher risk of developing additional dystonia or that it might not spread at all. Facing a musician’s worst nightmare, Billy was devastated. “I had never heard of focal dystonia or that such a condition existed,” says Billy “I had attended a major university school of music for a performance degree and never heard a word about this career ending malady. I never saw it mentioned in a guitar magazine or music education publication.” Soon after his diagnosis, Billy started treatments, including extended carpal release therapy, acupuncture, massage and biofeedback. He also experimented with Botox injections, which can provide temporary relief for some focal dystonia-affected individuals. Choosing to go against doctors’ recommendations to quit music and look for other work, Billy focused on his songwriting and returned to his ensemble which was less demanding for his hands. By 2002, it was clear that focal dystonia had ended Billy’s career as a virtuoso guitarist. Click here to read more of Billy's story... Click here for PDF of entire article Visit Billy's Official Website Return to main Media Center page

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composer. For twenty years, he astounded audiences around the world with his complex and rhythmic music.

Make the freedom to move a reality to everyone.