I was just diagnosed with the genetic desease hemocromatosis, and, well I guess that's a good thing. (since I'm young, and I don't yet have any symptoms.)
about 1 million americans have this, and alot of them (most?) don't know about it. Basically it causes the body to not metabolize iron properly, and it just builds up and eventually becomes toxic wreaking havoc on the liver and other organs.
I'm basically wondering about the treatment (which is essentially donating blood, and alot of it)... .how long will it take... how much can I train? these questions might be answered by the hemotologist I'm going to see next week, but I'm wondering if other athletes have had other experiences. feel free to post, or email me directly: [email hidden]
I'm doing the willamette valley classic and Mt. hood classic stage race, and I definatly don't want to start treatment before then.
THANKS.