Story submitted by John Clark on December 12, 1999 at 20:29:38:
John Clark is 35, from East Norriton, Pa.
Family:Married; 2 children
I have just turned 35 and have had Erb's all my life. What has always been explained to me is that I was an emergency delivery and was a big baby, and that my left shoulder/arm was injured during delivery. I remember doing exercises as a child, and getting countless x-rays on my arm. My left shoulder is disfigured (about 1/3 of the size of my right shoulder). There is much less muscle mass in my left arm, and I cannot raise it over my head. Also, I cannot straighten my elbow, and my wrist does not have full motion. From what I can tell, my fingers have not been effected. I have never had the pain I read about in many of the posts here, so I must say I feel fortunate for that. I have always played sports and have tried to use Erb's as motivation to not only play as well as my friends when I was growing up, but to do better. In some respects, I think I accomplished that. the condition has definitely effected my personality as well. I can recall always wanting to just "blend in" instead of stick out in a crowd. I always tried to be the class clown so I could be accepted. I tried to get good grades so my teachers would accept me. I really think it has made me a stronger person...that I can accomplish just as much (or more) than someone without the condition. Because it is a physical problem, I do get "reminded" of it quite regularly...so Erb's is always with me...I recall my parents asking me if I wanted platic surgery or re-constructive surgery and I said no...it just wouldn't be "me". I would love to share my experiences with anyone who'd like to share theirs....I think this resource is excellent !
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