“My struggles have been a test of perseverance. I’d like to think I’m passing the test. Despite all I’ve gone through, I’ve never lost sight of how blessed and fortunate I am,” Cindi* says.
* Her real name, used with permission.
Diligence and dedication to her athletic abilities while in high school earned Cindi a basketball scholarship to Augusta College. On to graduate school at UGA while working 
as an assistant to the women’s athletic director. Even while working on her Ph.D. program and dissertation, she remained very active in various athletic endeavors. To say she was passionate about sports is a gross understatement.
Trying to Run in Water
While working on her Ph.D at UGA and living in Atlanta, she was playing in a racquetball tournament with friends and didn’t feel “quite right.” Cindi remembers telling her playing partner, “My legs feel as if I’m trying to run in water . . . they feel so heavy.” She finished the tournament the next day and headed to Hilton Head for a 4th of July family weekend get together.
On the first morning of her holiday getaway, Cindi woke up and tried to go to the bathroom. She couldn’t go. Freaked out, Cindi woke her mother who encouraged her to walk up and down the hallway a few times and then try again. Nothing worked.
Still concerned about the “heavy” feeling in her legs and not being able to urinate, Cindi’s family took her to a local “doc-in-the-box” the following morning. He removed the urine from her bladder and suggested Cindi see her general care practitioner when she returned home. Until then, she took the medicine he prescribed and took a nap at their rental home.
A Diagnosis of Transverse Myelitis
During her nap, a close friend arrived for the family holiday. Her friend grabbed her leg to wake her, but Cindi didn’t feel it. Panic set in when she couldn’t stand or walk. Being in a resort town, their only option for medical care was to return to the “doc-in-the-box.” He assessed her again. “I don’t know what’s wrong with you, but I think you might have Multiple Sclerosis,” he said. Cindi started screaming uncontrollably as she has a sister with Multiple Sclerosis and knew the struggles she goes through on a daily basis.
An ambulance ride to a hospital in Augusta, GA was arranged. A neurosurgeon was on standby as a tumor on her spine was a possible explanation for her symptoms. Batteries of tests (spinal taps, CT scans, a myelogram, and blood work) were conducted over the next few weeks. Cindi’s protein count on her spinal cord was through the roof. At this point, she was paralyzed from the waist down.
Concerns of whether or not the paralysis would ascend and affect her breathing was addressed. Mega doses of steroids were given to fight inflammation in the myelin sheath of the nerves in her spinal cord. More testing ruled out various other possible causes for her sudden paralysis. Finally, a diagnosis of transverse myelitis at level 2 in the spine was given. (At that time in 1986, the incidence of transverse myelitis was 1 in 1.3 million people in the U.S.)
Didn’t Know How Sick I Really Was
Cindi shared how this was the most difficult period of her life. Coming to grips with her new health condition was a surreal experience. “How did I go from being a talented multi-sport athlete to not being able to walk?” was the question that often raced through her mind. When explaining the struggle she went through, she said, “If you decide not to do something, it’s one thing. But to have it taken away is another thing.” It was a mind game she fought for quite a while. Her legs, which had been her greatest source of strength, had abandoned her.
The neurosurgeon recommended Cindi be taken to the Shepherd Spinal Center in Atlanta where she could receive the latest spinal cord treatment and rehabilitation.
Upon arrival, Cindi looked at the other patients and decided she didn’t belong there. “I didn’t know how sick I really was,” she remembers. “I definitely needed to be there, but I hadn’t come to terms with my situation yet or the fact that I couldn’t walk.”
“I cried often. I felt like every bit of the life I knew had been stripped away from me. Honestly, it was humiliating and very difficult. The therapists teach you how to live your life as independently as possible.”
At the time, Cindi couldn’t wrap her head around the idea of not living independently as her goal was to walk out of there at the end of her treatments and resume her active lifestyle.
Better Enough to Walk and Run Again
During her six months of in-patient rehabilitation at Shepherd, Cindi asked her family not to visit her. “I didn’t want to have to act like I was OK when I wasn’t.” She dove into a period of self-absorption – thinking she would pull herself out of life temporarily – and then reinsert herself when she was better. Better enough to walk and run again.
“The sooner you get any movement, the better. The longer it takes to get any movement back, the less likely you’ll recover enough to walk,” her therapists said.
Those words could have been defeating for some, but for Cindi, those words motivated her all the more. She pulled from deep within all the perseverance and dedication she relied upon when playing sports, as well as her faith.
She felt if she couldn’t get to a better way of life, she knew she’d kill herself. To not walk again was not an option.
Years later when Cindi read a copy of her patient notes, a well-meaning therapist had written: Patient unrealistic. Not dealing with reality. Thinks she’ll walk out of here. This is the 13th case of transverse myelitis we’ve seen and none of them have walked out of this facility.
He clearly didn’t know the fight Cindi possesses!
Walked Out
At the end of six arduous months of treatment and rehabilitation, Cindi used two canes and WALKED OUT of Shepherd Spinal Center. “They insisted I take home a wheelchair, because I wouldn’t be able to be on crutches/canes all the time. Knowing I wasn’t truly independent yet and needing the help of others was a hard pill to swallow,” she remembers.
After leaving Shepherd, Cindi began a regimen of two to three days per week of outpatient physical therapy. She went back to her Human Resources executive job, but soon found her new physical limitations made her slower than she wanted to be. Those struggles may have made work more difficult, but she didn’t allow them to deter her.
Network of Caring Friends and Family
A big change for Cindi was how many activities and travel had to be planned out with respect to getting around with her crutches or canes. She shared with me about the wonderful network of caring friends and family she has who didn’t treat her any differently, but helped her with the activities she wanted to do so they were easier and less stressful. Cindi did progress to the point of being able to walk unassisted.
Those same friends and family still help after all these years. And with the same caring attitude.
[youtube]https://youtu.be/PgzKQBQtc2M[/youtube]Six years ago, Cindi slipped while working outside and broke her left femur bone. After surgery to put a pin and plate in her leg, and she returned to the grind of physical therapy to overcome this setback.
After many years of having a successful career, Cindi knew the struggles with work were real and it was time to “retire” and go on disability. Another tough pill to swallow. Soon after, she had to have her left hip replaced as it takes the brunt of her weight when she walks. As a result of that surgery, Cindi now uses a cane when she walks.
Never Give Up
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0GVSFqzncY[/youtube] Cindi continued to do physical therapy at home, but she she saw little progress and was growing weary of it.
However, recently she began an exciting opportunity with Locomat Robotics therapy at Shepherd. It allows her neurological system, along with her body, legs, and muscles, to feel the repetition and pattern of walking with perfect gait and form. Over time, it will help her walk better, putting less stress on her hip. Watch the video – it’s truly fascinating!
This 4th of July will mark 30 years of Cindi navigating life with transverse myelitis. Cindi admits there are still times she gets weary, and there are times she elects not to do some activities because the challenges outweigh the benefits. But she tries her best not to let her physical struggles infringe upon her daily life.
Because of various reasons on both our parts, Cindi and I finally met and had her interview this past summer after a year of texting and talking on the phone. Cindi IS the real deal. Her positive attitude about weathering the storms of life is real. Her mantra of “never give up” is what pushes her forward even on those tough days.
Cindi,
What an amazing journey you are on! a very determined lady, and I’m in awe. talk about overcoming! thanks for sharing your story. I know whoever gets to hear your story will be moved by it.
I can’t imagine what that was like, but you have overcome some of lives biggest challenges.
God bless, Angie
I’ve known you all my life my neighbor. You are the toughest damn person I know. I remember seeing you walk around the circle slowly by our house.You are a true ambassador to courage and determination. I love you girl. Hope to see you soon
David, I have always loved and adored you. Playing in the yard and growing up together was huge part of who I am today. Please see me soon!
Thank you, Angie! It’s not easy but I realize how fortunate and blessed I am.
Thank you, Angie! It’s not easy but I realize how fortunate and blessed I am.
Cindi, You are an overcomer, but you know that after 30 years! Never give up, you have an inspiring story!
Thank you so much, Maureen!
Cindy, your story is nothing short of amazing. Your life is one of exemplary perseverance -truly inspirational!
Thank you, Carol!
Cindi,
I was in your life at the time this happened to you and as devastating as it was your determination, strength, desire and attitude blew me away!!! It still does to this day! You are an amazing woman filled with courage and I am so grateful to call you friend!! Bless you and thank you for sharing your story of hope!!
Deb, I know you remember it vividly. I thank you for always being so supportive and making me feel so loved. I really miss you and would love to see you.
Missed a lot during 20 plus years. Your still the competitor I use to play Racquetball with. I miss a lot of the things Zi can’t do either but you learn to adjust and do it differently. Like you do t tell me I can’t do something. We will catch up. I can relate to some of what you have gone through but you had it much worse than me. Ha need to get together to compare femure plates and screws! Most of the screws rattled out of my ears lol. My thoughts, heart and prayers are with you.
Rod, let’s PLEASE get together. We keep saying it on FB. Let’s do it!!
Rodney, we keep saying on FB we are gettting together…let’s do it!!
Cindy,
I just wanted to say what a AMAZING person you are!
Your story breaks my heart but just to hear your positive attitude and drive is unreal. The Sheppard center is amazing and I am glad they aided in your road to recovery.
All my best.
Tracy, thank you for the heartfelt comments. It has been a tough deal and Shepherd has given me new incentive and more hope.
Cindi,
Thank you for sharing your story. Those of us who are fortunate to be able to call you friend know what an amazing person you are. Smart,funny, caring, and unstoppable!
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Wanda, thank you very much. I have such fond memories of time spent with you and would love to see you.
What can’t you do? I am in awe of you! I love you, Cindi Lou Who!
Jason, you are so sweet for saying those kind words. Thank you! Cindi Lou Who
Great article. I am so proud of you. You are an inspiration to many. I have always thought a lot of you but this makes me cherish you even more. I am so glad to call you friend.
Robin, thank you for reading and for the comments. I am so glad we are friends.
Great story! Go Cyndi!
Thank you, Danny!
Amazing story- amazing woman!
Jeanine, thank you for taking the time to read and for your comment.
Cindi,
There are no words to properly express how special you are to me. You are truly a ray of sunshine. You always inspire me to move forward. I love you!!
Love,
Olivia
Olivia, I have always adored you and your quest and pursuit to do more and be better. You inspire me. So proud of you. I love you!
Cindy,
You are one of the most inspiring people I have ever worked with and treasure the time we have had together. Thirty years of perseverance and still working towards ground breaking changes to become, and stay, as independent as possible! I’m proud of your dedication and commitment!
Miss you!
Leanne
Leanne, your PT work with me has been some of the BEST. You know how much I want it and worked diligently to find ways to help me. I miss you so very much. Please come back to GA.
I have known Cindi all of life. She truly is an inspiration to many!! She is a beautiful soul and the physical example of faith, determination, and a touch of hard headed independence.
Thank you, Ginny!
Cindi, I remember this time very well. Your mom called me during the time it happened and she was heart broken thinking she might lose you and asking for prayer. We talked many times about your experience. I remember it like yesterday when you mom told me that you had to be taken from Hilton Head to Augusta and that you were critically sick. I watched her cry and listen to her talk about it many a day and prayed for you constantly. Yes, you have come a long way from where you started in July 1986 and I am sure that with your strong will and want to do it, you will achieve what you have set out to do. Will be praying for you.
Erma, thank you for staying close to my Mother during that time. It broke my heart for her as I know she was so worried. She has the strongest faith of anyone I have ever known and I am honored to be her daughter. I will always be her baby! All the prayers helped sustain me. Please continue to pray.
Cindi, this is the first time I have seen this article and I really received a blessing from what you did to overcome their first diagnosis that you would never walk again. Thank you for sharing your story. They sure didn’t know the Cindi I knew and still know. We have been life long friends, high school basketball team mates and I consider you still like a sister to me. You truly are an amazing person to go through what you have and still have the best attitude and courage to continue your battle with this disease. I, for one, am so happy that you didn’t give up and showed everyone what a fighter you are. I love you and your family so much. Thank you to the Sheppard Center for the work you do and especially for taking such good care of my friend.
Debra, my dear friend and sister. Thank you for sticking with me and loving my family and me like family…we are! I so miss and recall fondly all our days together. I am so glad we stay in close touch. Shepherd is truly helping me and I will continue to walk better because of them.
I love you!
Cindi…I knew so little about your journey. I am beyond impressed and applaud you for your amazing ability to overcome so much!!! What an inspiration to all of us! ???
Thank you, Diane. I don’t talk much about it but it is obviously always with me. I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment. Would love to see you on the lake!!??
You’re always such an amazing positive person, and I had no idea just how much you’ve overcome. Thanks for the great example and the unending kindness and friendship. Chris
Thank you, Chris, for your kind words.
Cindi,
While I knew you had an illness I didn’t know what it was or anything about it. Your story that you have been willing to share will be such encouragement to everyone who reads it. God is definitely using you to be an “encourager” to all. YOU GO GIRL!
CeCe, I don’t like to talk about it much but Melony encouraged me and did such a great job. I am glad I did it. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment.
Cindy, I had no idea, having not seen you in many years. But I certainly relate and am very proud of you. I know it takes a strong inner strength, determination and faith to overcome something like this while having to still face that we do have limitations. It’s also good to share your story, for I found out, by doing so we give hope and encouragement to others out there who may be at the point of giving up. God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers. Good for you!
And good for you, too, Iris, that you stay determined and maintain such a great attitude and support others so much. It’s not easy, as you well know, but giving up is not an option. Please pray for me as I do you.
Cindi,
You are my hero! Really! Your strength, determination and zest for life were a wonderful influence on me as a teenager and are as much the case 35 years later. It is only fitting you share some of your deep well of courage and dedication with others. Your influence is a wonderful legacy now and throughout time. I love you, CHB.
Jane, thank you for offering your thoughts and feelings. I have always adored you and have been blessed to have you as my friend through the years. Come to see me?
I was a team mate of Cindi’s on our high school basketball team. She was dedicated & helped run our offense like a well oiled machine. She was definitely a positive influence on fellow teammates & fellow classmates. Her skills in sports were in addition to her skills in the classroom. She was a friend to many & I doubt she has ever met a stranger. I never doubted that Cindi would continue to show her drive & ambition post high school & college. When I first heard what Cindi was going through this when it first hit her, I remember telling my dad, “If anyone can beat this, it will be Cindi.” I am proud to call her a friend & I’m proud of ALL she has accomplished! To Cindi I say, “Way to go, Pistol Pete”.
Diane, your words make me smile so big! Thank you. I cherish our times as kids, classmates and teammates…they were some of the best years of my life. Thanks for caring for me and for the support. Wish we could shoot a few hoops. Pistol Pete
I’m not sure you know what an impact you’re having on not only those of us who know you, but on those you share this with. Do know you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Love you, Ellen
Thank you, Ellen. I am so grateful Please pray for me.
What a amazing story and person! Way to go girl! You still have the same determination and beautiful spirit as you had from day one I met you.So glad to call you a friend. Hugs and Love Ya❤
Thank you so much, Kathy! Love you!
Your story and your life continues to emit the eternal flame of “hope” as in your name…..thank you for being a beacon for others then and now! Love you…
Sue, thank you for that. I am so grateful. I love and miss you.
Cindi,
you have always been strong, determined and focused. Your will and compassion is an inspiration to everyone. Keep it up! Love you!!
Thank you, Sam. I appreciate you so much.
Wow! I did not know these details. What an amazing and inspirational story! Very well written also. Thanks for sharing. Love that you saved the note from your medical records. Guess you showed them!
Thanks, Linda, and yes, I think I showed them!
Cindi, what an amazing story. You are an inspiration to everyone around you and those who read your story. You have an amazing family also and I pray for their continued support and strength as you continue to improve. Love and continued success.
Linda, thank you so much. Indeed, I do have a terrific family, for which I am truly grateful. Please continue to pray for us all.
For as long as we have known Cindi, we have always seen her struggle but that has never dampened her spirit. She has always strived to be the best friend and hardest worker. What a great story about our friend. She may not want to share her story but someone else will be uplifted by it. What a great person. A friend for life.
Jody, thank you so much, my sweet friend! I do try very hard to to the very best I can…not easy and I don’t always make it, but I strike at it. Appreciate you and Peggy so much.
Cindy,
I’ve always looked up to you for being a great basketball player but even more as a big sister. I loved watching you and Debra, Diane, Sherry and others teammates rule on a basketball court. Yall were always so together always clicking together without even saying a word. This bond this strength this determination and most of all with God’s love for you and many prayers is what got you to today. We never know what God plans for us are but He knows best. Your life story your testimony is and will help others. Your sunshine smile and love for people and sports will definitely help others. Go and tell others. Thank you to all the medical staff that’s has helped my sister through Christ.
Rose, your words brought tears to my eyes as I recall, with such delight, our earlier years and all that we did and all that we were. You are family and I am eternally grateful.
Cindi you rock!!!!
Sherri, I TRY!
Cindi, you are such an inspiration to me and many others. God bless you!!
Thank you, Connie.
Having met Cindy “virtually”, I knew nothing of her condition for some time. And when I did learn that she had some physical challenges, I had no idea how serious they were; how long her journey has been; and how much she has overcome. This story obviously has shed a lot of light on the subject for me.
In addition to providing motivation to everyone fighting a physical battle, I can tell you that Cindy is also one of the most generous people I have ever met.
We should also be so fortunate to have know someone like her. A true role model and inspiration.
Tommy, I am so very grateful we have gotten to know one another a bit, even if it is an “out there” relationship! Thank you for the comments. As a college basketball player, you too, can imagine how hard it has been to be forced to give up things so important to our basic selves. I continue to send positive thoughts your way as you fight your own battle. Too bad we can’t team up on the court and defeat these situations we face. I am anxious to meet you in person.
Cindi, i truly believe that your greatest gift is the quiet strength that you live each day. To have watched you continue to strive to get better and stronger, mostly to prove all those ‘doubters’ wrong! I love you sweet amazing friend and thanks for sharing your story of power and peace.
Thank you, Frannie. You KNOW I have a deep desire to be better. Love you and please visit.
I have known Cindi for over 20 years and her strength, perseverance, and passion have been an inspiration to me since I met her. You would have never known that she was going through anything, because she always had/has the time to comfort and inspire others to greatness. Cindi Branch is truly one of the greatest people that I know and I am glad to call her my colleague, mentor and most of all friend. Love you!!!
Scott, you are just a bit biased but thank you for the kind and generous words. Love you, my friend!
Cindi, thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to so many people! You rock!!!
Thank you, Craig.
Cindy…Thanks for sharing your story. In the short time we’ve known each other I too have been impressed by your strength, determination, and courage but there is one thing about you that seems to define you immediately. It’s that smile. It never fails to blow me away.
Michael, thank you for taking the time to read the story and for your endearing comments. So glad I have had a chance to know you.
Cindi, you are a great inspiration to all!! As a teacher and a coach I have seen too many students take life for granted. We all need to reflect on our fortunes in life no matter what they are in a positive manner. Your strength and perseverance is the best lesson for all!!!
Best wishes always!!!
Mark
Thank you so much, Mark.
Cindi, thank you for sharing your story. Even us “old friends” learned a bit and have been reinspired by seeing it in print. In fact, it is so very valuable for you to put this down. We have just recently met a friend’s brother who was just diagnosed with transverse myelitis at age 69. We’ll shared it with him – may it inspire him and others to conquer the illness, walk again, and then share their journeys.
We love you!
B & B
B & B, thanks for sharing your comment and I am thankful for you both. So very sorry to learn about your friend’s brother. If I can do anything…speak with him on the phone, email, text…anything…I will.
Cindi, first of all you know I love you! You are such an inspiration and always have been. You are one of the strongest most determined people I know. You are simply amazing! This is such a great article.
Love Ya! Van
Van, what can I say? You have known me in the good, bad and difficult times. You have talked me off the ledge many times and I am so very grateful. You are like a brother to me. I love you and am amazed at your courage, strength, and determination in dealing with your”story.” Thank you for always being there.
Cindi, your story is nothing short of amazing, You are the only person I know who could have overcome your challenges. Having the pleasure of being friends with you for years, I know how amazing you are. You are an inspiration to all who know and love you.
Thank you, Q! I appreciate you being there for me and for the friendship we share.
CB, I know this is a personal and difficult part of your life that you seldom discuss. Thanks for sharing–your story will help others. You are the strongest, most determined person I’ve ever known. Your spirit and determination have always inspired me!
Love you,
Michael
MT, thanks, my dear friend. We have been through so much together and I will be forever thankful for you and for the bond we share.
Cindi, I did not know the details of your story. Girl, you are truly amazing.
You were always so smart and anexcellent team player when it came to sports. I enjoyed watching you play basketball, volleyball,etc. You were always good at everything you did.
Posting your story will be an inspiration to so many people, to see how you have persevered. I also have an auto-immune disease, and it sometimes seems too hard to cope. But, with Jesus we can make it through anything. God is so good!
We were both raised as Christians, during our childhood years. I thank God for Godly parents. I know you do too. Your mom is so sweet. Every time I see her, she has a sweet, sweet smile and a word of encouragement. I see where you got it from. You, take care of yourself, and keep on letting God use you.
Would love to have lunch with you, Sherry, Debra, Becky, Diane, etc. sometime. Let me know when you are in town. Love You, Brenda Edge. (We are getting old, but better.)
Brenda, I appreciate every word you posted. I sure miss those days of all of us together…how those memories stay with with me and help keep me going. Yes, Mother is one of a kind. Not sure how I got so blessed to be her kid. THAT would be so wonderful for us to have lunch sometime together…I will get with Debra and we will make a plan. We were raised in Christian homes and I know that’s part of how I have managed to cope with this as well as I have. I am so sorry you suffer from an auto immune disease. I would like to hear and know about it. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, my friend!
I have wondered who you were even though we are Friends on FB. You have really been through much physical frustration. I admire that you were strong enough not to let it beat you. I probably would have given up totally and completely. What a great inspiration you are to others. Thanks for your story. I wish the best for You.
I bet you would persevere, Marilyn, if faced with such a situation. Thank you for your support.
Cindi, although I do not know you as well as others who have responded to your story, I know you were a tremendous asset to the company and respected by all who had opportunity to meet and work with you. While I was aware you had health issues, I never realized you had overcome challenges that would have defeated others. Your story is so inspirational for all. Thank you for sharing.
Barbara, your words mean so much to me. I miss those days with the company and visiting with you and so many people I think of often. Thank you for the support. I appreciate it.
Cindi, while we’ve only known each other a short time compared to your many, many friends, I count you among my friends. I am honored to know such a courageous and determined woman, not to mention the fun loving, happy person I have come to love. You truly are an inspiration to all.
Karen, I felt a bond with you when I first met you so although we have not known each other for years, I certainly feel a comfort, when around you. I appreciate your words and please come to see me and let’s kayak on the lake>
Cindi, your amazing life’s story, is amazing. God bless you & keep you strong. What an inspiration to us all, when we start to whine!
Hey Debbie, thank you so much. The things thrown our way are all relative so we get to whine, even at things that seem so mundane sometimes.
Melony told your story well, Cindi–such a strong inspirer you are! I love the robotic equipment, a gorgeous medical storm trooper 🙂
Lissa, thank you so very much. I, too, think Melony captured the story extremely well. That equipment is just the coolest thing I have ever done.
Growing up in a small town, you get to know everyone and their families in such a close way. There are people who rise above in their good character, friendliness, good sportsmanship, etc…Cindi was that person in Jackson, South Carolina. She was everyone’s friend, always upbeat, funny, and what an athlete! Again she inspires us all with her determination that when she “got knocked down”, she showed us how to get back up! I have always been proud to call her my friend and pray that she continues to heal, inspire others, and continue to shine as we know her to shine! Love you sweet girl!
Dana, it’s nice to read your words. I wouldn’t take anything for our little town and the family we had. Thank you for your love and support. You have always been there for me. I will always remember and will always be grateful. Love you.
Cindi, I had forgotten about this. Love your family and miss seeing them when going by the old Home place. Mary Ryals Hutcheson
Mary, I long for those days on the farm. Such great memories.
Cindi, your story is so inspirational. I pray that you continue to improve. We all are getting better with age!! I know firsthand what a critical illness can do to not only the individual but also the family involved. Your mother must have been your true cheerleader all your life. Thank you for your courage, ethics, and faith to persevere and reach your goals. I wish you the best always. I do love your mother so very much. She is always so sweet and kind to everyone she meets!
Martha, you are gone but your words stick with me.