Patient Ambassador Story: Mr. Prashant Verma’s Fight Against Myositis

An Encounter with our Patient Ambassador Mr.Prashant Verma. A tale of resilience and triumph. We interviewed our patient, Mr.Prashant Verma. His story of disease and an inspiring recovery is really worth sharing. Prashant sir's ordeal began in August 2020 when he started experiencing weakness and pain in his limbs. At first, he brushed it off as post-gym session fatigue, but the symptoms persisted and worsened with time. Swelling in his face and difficulty eating and swallowing soon followed. Concerned, he sought medical help, visiting several doctors, but none could pinpoint the issue. The timing of his symptoms coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to evaluations for the virus and its potential complications. When all COVID-related tests came back negative, he faced a frustrating period of uncertainty. The medical professionals he consulted initially believed it might be a psychological problem, leaving Prashant sir in a state of distress as his condition deteriorated further. After months of uncertainty, he was eventually referred to a Rheumatologist who, after extensive testing and evaluation, diagnosed him with Myositis. By the time the diagnosis was made, almost 3-4 months had elapsed since the onset of his symptoms. He was finally diagnosed on 1st of December 2020. Treatment commenced promptly after the diagnosis, and initially, Prashant sir experienced relief. He felt like he had conquered the disease, but fate had different plans. On another occasion, while taking medications for another illness, he suffered a severe relapse with even more debilitating symptoms. He found himself almost immobile, relying on a caretaker for basic tasks like eating and moving. The once independent and confident person now felt completely dependent on others. It was a crushing blow, and he struggled both physically and emotionally during this time. The situation worsened when Prashant sir contracted COVID-19 shortly after starting a higher drug called Rituximab. The virus further compromised his health, and during this trying period, his family members were isolated due to COVID precautions. This isolation was unbearable, and he was reluctant to be admitted alone into an isolation room. The experience was perhaps the most tumultuous phase of his life, with fear, uncertainty, and physical suffering looming large. Despite the challenges, Prashant sir continued with the treatment under the guidance of his doctors. Slowly, the storm began to subside, and he was discharged home. However, the road to recovery was arduous, and he still couldn't regain his strength and independence. Mentally, he was in a dark place, contemplating giving up. It was during this dark phase that he came across a story of a Tokyo-Olympics Volleyball player who had also battled Myositis. The athlete's determination and eventual triumph inspired Prashant sir deeply. That tale of resilience ignited a fire within him, and he decided to fight back with everything he had. He began incorporating physiotherapy and exercises into his treatment routine, determined to regain his life. With each passing day, Prashant sir made steady progress. Slowly but surely, he started to move his limbs, swallow, and work. The spark of life returned, and he was on the path to recovery. Supported by his family, friends, and medical team, he found renewed hope in life. Today, we are overjoyed to report that Prashant sir has made an incredible recovery. His determination knows no bounds, and he is even planning to scale Mt. Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the support of loved ones. Looking back at his journey, Prashant sir credits his recovery to the unwavering support of his family, friends, and the skilled medical professionals who guided him throughout. Now, he has made it his mission to help other patients going through similar experiences, offering guidance and support during this challenging phase of their lives. We are honored to be associated with Prashant sir and commend his indomitable spirit in the face of Myositis. His remarkable fight against the odds serves as an inspiration to us all.