Heaven forbid I should toot my horn about being the next big thing! But I have to tell you, according to the evidence, it looks like Charcot Foot is going to become much more of a Diabetic condition than ever before, thanks to the fact that Diabetes is simply becoming much more prevalent in our modern culture.
According to the latest statistics, there are approximately 29.1 million Diabetics in America. But about 8 million of that number are folks who are unaware they are even Diabetic! The percentage of Diabetics who develop CHARCOT FOOT is around 3-6% of diagnosed, or conservatively, approximately 650,000 Americans! Where are all of you, and how can we get everyone HERE for regular support and sharing?!
Well, it is my dream to have a place on the internet where those suffering from Charcot Foot can share our fears, hopes, ideas and solutions! I am certainly not tech saavy in any way, and I don’t do much social media. Lord I have no clue how YOU came to read this, probably a stumble, no doubt. But if you did manage to read through any of the posts I have written on the subject, here on Charcot Chacha, please share them with your friends and family…get the word out! Because too many doctors, in too many emergency and urgent care centers are not even able to recognize Charcot Foot when your friend or loved one goes looking for answers. Please read my post “Charcot Foot: My Own Saga and Charcot Awareness” and come to know the symptoms and make sure all of your friends and family who have Diabetes (and especially who have peripheral neuropathy in their feet) are aware of the signs and symptoms. If caught early Charcot Foot can be managed without surgery, or loss of limb! Too late for me, but this does not stop me from wanting to get the word out about AWARENESS!!!!
And please know too, that worldwide, not all Charcoters are as lucky as some others. I have come across a few personal accounts of Charcot across the internet, and the U.S.A. looks to be the leading country for forward thinking doctors regarding Charcot Foot. But please pray for those in all other countries where Doctors are not skilled or educated in reconstruction, where amputation is the only tool available, where thousands suffer without proper care. Thank you.
-Cassandra, Charcotchacha copyright 2015