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Teen Battles Rare Autoimmune Disease
21 Jul
Summary
- 15-year-old Maleeah Wilson was diagnosed with Anti-NF155.
- The rare disease causes the body to attack itself, leading to weakness.
- Maleeah is undergoing extensive therapy to relearn daily functions.
A 15-year-old freshman, Maleeah Wilson, is currently undergoing treatment for an extremely rare autoimmune disease known as Anti-NF155. This condition causes her immune system to mistakenly attack a specific protein, leading to symptoms such as weakness, tremors, and numbness.
Initially misdiagnosed, Maleeah's condition worsened before the correct diagnosis was made. Her mother, Morgan Wilson, stresses the critical need for families to persistently question medical professionals and seek multiple opinions, recalling how a switch in doctors was vital for her daughter's care.
Maleeah is now receiving treatment in Charleston, which includes rounds of chemotherapy and intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The rigorous treatment is forcing her to relearn fundamental daily activities, a challenging process that impacts her ability to engage in social life.
Doctors acknowledge that conditions like Anti-NF155 are uncommon and difficult to identify, underscoring the importance of increased awareness. While Maleeah faces significant daily challenges, she remains hopeful for recovery.
