Roger Elford
In August of 2025, at the age of 81, my life changed when I was diagnosed with CIDP—chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy – first diagnosed as Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Before that diagnosis, I never imagined how quickly my independence could be taken away. I have been healthy my entire life and very active. I had never even heard of GBS.
At my lowest point, I was unable to move my legs or my right arm. Simple things I had once done without thinking suddenly became impossible, and I had to face a long and difficult road ahead. The University of Michigan neurology team made the diagnosis after waiting 8 hours in ER and getting a spinal puncture. They said there was no known cause in my situation. That was after 3 weeks of trying to get a correct diagnosis locally.
I spent 255 days in inpatient rehabilitation in 3 different facilities, working every day to rebuild strength, movement, and confidence. The process was challenging physically, mentally, and emotionally, but each small improvement became a sign of hope. Every exercise, every therapy session, and every step forward reminded me that progress was still possible.
After those months in rehabilitation, I was finally able to come home. I have now been home for three months, continuing outpatient therapy and focusing on recovery one day at a time. My treatment includes Vyvgart Hytrulo which is a weekly self-injection medicine. Those injections will be for the rest of my life. They began in January 2026. Each injection costs $16,000 (thankfully my insurance covers it). I am doing everything I can to keep moving forward.
Today, I am walking with a walker and a cane. That may sound small to some people, but to me it represents determination, healing, and a major step toward getting my life back. I know recovery takes patience, but I also know how far I have already come.
One of my primary goals now is to be able to drive again. Driving represents freedom, independence, and the ability to return to parts of life that CIDP interrupted. I am still on the road to recovery, but I am moving forward with hope, perseverance, and a strong desire to keep improving.
Before being discharged in May of this year, I read a quote made by Benjamin Franklin. He once said that ENERGY and PERSERVERANCE can conquer most anything. I do persevere, but the energy came (and comes) to me from outside sources in the way of love shown from prayer chains, calls, letters, cards, family, friends, and caregivers. I am very grateful.