Estate Planning Vault

Estate Planning: Boston Lawyer Battles Disease

It first hit me in 1976 when I was 7 years old. There was an acute bout in 1978, then I was symptom-free until 1986 when it nearly took me down.

The next 18 years passed with few difficulties except for the lingering effects of the disease that has controlled my life.

In 2004, I thought I was finally cured even though rationally I know this condition is incurable. In the past few years I have suffered staggering effects from the ravages of this disease that over 4 million Americans share.

The distribution range of infection seems to be most heavily concentrated in the northeastern United States, although it has begun to spread throughout the country and now, to foreign lands.

The symptoms can be hideous. Those with experience in treating this disease were right when they said the nausea would pass. The sleepless nights, followed by days of lethargy and worry over my condition would pass too - but not easily.

Although incurable, the symptoms seem to be most prevalent in the Autumn. Those who have it, notice the most pronounced immunological response at about the time the leaves change colors. Scientists and researchers knows there is a seasonal component, but think the timing of the resurgence of the disease, along with the leaf change is coincidental, not causative.

It can lie dormant for several years. In these dormant years the most notable symptom is depression and a profound sense of loss. Other prominent signs include a strong sociological response to others who either do not carry the genetic marker or who have not been environmentally exposed to the core strain of the disease.

There are many variants and one would think those who suffer, would be more patient with those with similar strains.  This is not the case, however and research has shown not only is there a lack of patience, but a certain vitriol.

The disease is believed to have its roots in congenital factors . There are known cases of mutations where those living in foreign lands came down with it. Usually one parent carries the gene. When both parents have it, there is a near 100% likelihood the offspring will inherit the disease.

It is common for groups of sufferers to spontaneously gather in support of each other, depending on seasonality and the virulence of the group's infection.

Unfortunately, co-conditions -- alcohol abuse and loud oral outbursts are most indicative of an outbreak. Despite its clear congenital roots, there are many known cases where the disease developed from environmental exposure.

In rare cases, individuals have spontaneously recovered while living abroad, only to suffer the most devastating re-infection upon return to this country, especially if they should move back or even visit New England for an extended span. Notable American sufferers include the actor Ben Affleck and horror author Stephen King. They try to bear their affliction with quiet dignity.

Even with my best efforts to fight the disease this past week, I believe this will be another difficult year for me. You see, Red Sox Fever is a lifelong illness.