Peter Cohen cont'd...
At the time of his first DBS procedure in 2003, Peter was unable to stand up straight, walk around the block, drive, drink from a glass, or sit at a table to eat. His body was bent at the waist, his right arm jerked incessantly, his right leg twisted inward when he walked, and his head was frequently pulled downward and sideways. Within six months of the procedure Peter was seeing significant benefit, and within two years the dystonia was essentially undetectable.
“The battery failure reminded me how bad off I really am, and the success of my DBS made me realize how precious life is,” said Peter. “I'm making up for lost time. Because I enjoy traveling and hiking so much, I take a hiking trip every month or so.”
Peter explained that his wish for research is a new medication that controls dystonia without side effects so that every individual with dystonia can live as fulfilling a life as possible.
Until a cure is found, Peter explained, “I’m living every day as if it’s my last. We all have to work together to spread awareness and raise money for research.”
You can help! Donate now to fund research for new treatments.
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