Sara is also one of a short list of women in the automotive industry with a physical disability. She was diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy at the age of 12, and without treatments or a cure, Sara’s muscles continued to weaken. Through these physical challenges, Sara embraced her diagnosis, implementing a fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) at Yemm Automotive, in addition to raising thousands of dollars for MDA through annual MDA Muscle Walks. Meanwhile, she adjusted to living and working with a progressive neuromuscular disease. While attending a Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy conference in 2019, Sara met a woman who made her think twice about her diagnosis. Due to new medical discoveries, this woman had recently discovered her diagnosis of Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy was incorrect and was actually an autoimmune condition called Anti‑HMGCR Myopathy. With treatments available for this newly discovered disease, Sara decided to proceed with testing. To her and her medical team’s surprise, Sara’s results showed she did not have Muscular Dystrophy but rather Anti-HMGCR Myopathy. “Anti-HMGCR Myopathy, an autoimmune myositis, is a rare disease marked by severe muscle weakness that is thought to be caused by an over-active immune response directed against muscle,” Sara explains. “Recently discovered by researchers, Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy symptoms closely mimic those of Anti-HMGCR Myopathy.” Having the correct diagnosis changed a great deal in Sara’s life. For the first time since her symptoms began as an adolescent, she was able to receive treatment to hopefully slow or stop her muscle deterioration. Today, Sara continues to use a wheelchair for distance but is able to better manage her symptoms while balancing her home and work life with enthusiasm and gratitude. Sara feels fortunate to work alongside a team of 75 employees who are very supportive, assisting her through daily physical challenges. She also leans on her husband and parents. “It is a blessing to work with my family,” Sara says. “Growing up, it was truly special to see the relationship and bond that my grandfather and father shared. The ability to learn from my father, Rick, and our time spent together is extremely meaningful.” Sara and her Dad, Rick 11 Illinois Automobile Dealer News
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