Shadi Makanast was shoveling snow off his driveway in 2017 when suddenly, he could not see out of his right eye. Shadi drives a tractor trailer for work, so experiencing any loss of vision on the job could be extremely dangerous.
Shadi went to a hospital and was prescribed steroids. A few days later, he saw a neurologist, who advised that he get an MRI. The MRI revealed that Shadi, now 49, had "spots" – otherwise known as lesions – on his brain, which were determined to be the result of a rare condition called Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) which shares many similarities with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The neurologist recommended that Shadi go to the MS Center at Holy Name for treatment.
In the eight years since he was diagnosed, Shadi hasn't had any issues with his vision nor has developed any new symptoms. He credits the MS Center and his neurologist, Dr. Asya Wallach, with keeping him healthy. Though Shadi has since moved to Florida, he still travels over 1,000 miles back to New Jersey every six months to meet with Dr. Wallach and receive an infusion. He appreciates her kind demeanor and responsiveness whenever he contacts her with questions.
"She's an awesome doctor," Shadi said.
Though Shadi has always treated his NMO with infusions, he feels comfortable speaking with Dr. Wallach about switching medications or lowering dosages if need be.
A resident of New Jersey for 23 years before he moved, Shadi already had a high opinion of Holy Name.
"My firstborn was born at Holy Name," he said. "It's one of the best hospitals I've been to."
Thanks to Dr. Wallach and the MS Center, Shadi is able to remain confident on the road and enjoy his days symptom-free.
To book a consultation or appointment with Dr. Wallach please call (201) 347-4813.
