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I found out by accident that I had Paget's disease through an x-ray for something else. I have Paget's disease in my lower spine.
At first my diagnosis weighed heavily on my mind. I imagined the worst, like I wouldn't be able to walk. But I did a little research and talked to my doctor, and I found out that I can and should be able to stay active.
Paget's disease hasn't kept me down. I still ski. But after I was diagnosed five years ago, I decided to stay off the expert slopes. I'm leaving them to the younger hot shots.
I'm semi-retired and still travel a great deal. With Paget's disease, one thing that's been a hassle is remembering my medicine — or worrying about misplacing it or forgetting it — when I'm on the road. I could do without that worry.
Other than that, I try not to dwell on it. I don't sit in the house and feel sorry for myself. I keep myself active and I make sure there's exercise equipment wherever I'm staying while on the road. I'm not getting any younger, but hey, I'm not slowing down either!
*Pete is a fictional patient. The content of this article is based on actual interviews with Paget's patients and their collective experiences. Individual experiences may vary.
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