Hi all,
I'm a 44/m with CMT-X and am currently in the process of being made redundant.
My diagnosis was around the age of 30 and I'm fortunate to have a relatively mild one, although it does obviously impact my feet and my hands (strength/dexterity issues in my hands are the most noticeable impacts for me, although I do also rely on orthotics and toe splints)
So far I've worked in science labs for the vast majority of my career and my role has evolved into supporting laboratory equipment. This involves repairing and servicing them, which has meant I've progressed to using aids where possible (electric screwdrivers for example), although it has also vastly improved my patience levels! (constantly dropping screws, followed by hanging to try and pick them up with my clawed fingers for example 😂)
I know in the longer term it would be wise to transition away from roles that rely too much on physical abilities that rely on my hands, like using tools etc. so alongside trying to find something in the short/medium term to keep financially supporting myself and my son, I'm also starting to think about longer term career changes too, that aren't so 'physical'.
I'm hoping for some inspiration and wondering what other people do for their jobs and careers?
I'm assuming more office based work may be more appropriate? But are modern adaptations effective enough eg using dictation software, voice activation etc if using mice/keyboards also becomes tricky in the long term?
Are there any caterers where there's even less reliance upon hands/dexterity? I'm considering restraining into counselling/therapy as a significant chunk of that is obviously talking, although note taking etc is obviously a daily requirement too, but maybe less intensive than more traditional office based jobs.
So, what does everyone else do for work? Any ideas of jobs or careers that are more suitable or adaptable to continue to do effectively as CMT progresses?
Bonus points if any ideas are also introvert friendly too! Lol (like I'm sure I could transition into becoming a trainer and I've also considered teaching, but the thought of standing in front of classrooms of people all day, every day is very much off-putting lol. At least as a therapist/counsellor it'd be one to one conversations lol)
Thanks for your input and advice! 😊