And so we begin

Actually, the beginning was about 6-7 months ago, when I first started looking for programs doing genetic testing for FTD. It was kind of a slow process, but not as slow as I thought it would be. Regardless, I have gained approval from UPenn's program to have Dad's DNA tested for markers on MAPT and progranulin (not sure if that's the correct reference). Ran it past Mom and while she wasn't really gung-ho about the concept, the knowledge that there was copious amounts of Dad's DNA still to be left over was enough to appease her. That...and considering the DNA will go into a university study vs. paying big dollars to have it tested.

The down draw with that is the fact that you only hear back from the U if there is a positive feed on those particular markers. BUT as time goes on, and the U receives additional grants to do further testing, there can be additional benefits.

I am aware that there is some more advanced testing going on with haploids (?? need to look into that more) with Mayo down in Florida, but I never heard back from them.

Long and the short of it -- My Dad developed Frontal-Temporal Dementia probably around the age of 58. 59. 60? Diagnosed around age 64, dead at 67.

I am currently 41. My memory is mostly shot. This I know because I used to be a reporter and could, verbatim, tell you quotes I heard yesterday and 10 years ago.

I can't do that anymore. I forget words. I forget names. I am lacking focus.

While this may seem a bit "usual" for aging, I am ultimately aware of what could come. (Currently, as research shows - and it is raw at best -- there is a 50 percent chance that FTD has a genetic component to it. Since my father's father died at 46 of cancer; his older brother died at 55ish of cancer; and the other brother is still kickin at 79ish, it is hard to tell.)

According to UPenn, they are looking for genetic markers on first and second generation. Well, they won't get that from the Ole' G'pa John Berry Hankel. But if there are positive markers on Dad's DNA, then I will have mine tested to see if it matches. Again, it's a 50-50 chance of a match and a similar outcome. Regardless, I hope my involvement furthers the research and helps me make a few decisions in the near future.

As an aside -- :) I think I'll hold off on registering for that online MBA til I hear back from UPenn. Why would I go pouring $12K into a sieve only to retain $500 worth of information. :)