Gerald W. Keister

Huntington disease (HD) is a devastating hereditary, degenerative brain disorder for which there is, at present, no effective treatment or cure. More than a quarter of a million Americans have HD or are at risk for the disease because of potential genetic transmission. The disease slowly diminishes the affected person's ability to walk, think, talk, and reason. As it progresses, concentration and short-term memory diminish and involuntary movements of the head, trunk, and limbs increase.

Although the prospect of disability is very real, help is available; the National Multiple Sclerosis Society provides a vast array of information and support services for patients, their families, and for health care professionals.