In this poignant episode, we're honored to share the deeply personal story of Rick Biagiola, an accomplished drummer who rose to fame with the 1960s rock band The Outsiders. Known for their hit "Time Won't Let Me," the band brought Rick recognition across the country during the peak of his youth. Little did he know then that in later decades he would face the daily tribulations of living with CMT. He was Diagnosed with CMT 2F later in life and after years of mysterious symptoms, Rick candidly reflects on navigating the ups and downs of his music career while also contending with the progressively limiting effects of CMT.

Despite the physical and emotional challenges CMT brings, Rick maintains his innate optimism, humor, and lifelong passion for drumming. He discusses the initial frustration of workplace discrimination once his symptoms became visible. We also learn how support from his devoted wife Lois and Rick's own determined spirit kept him pushing forward during the toughest times. His advice on finding inner strength and adapting to disability offers inspiration. Overall, Rick exemplifies the positivity and hope that lives within the CMT community.

**Tell Us How You Navigate CMT!**

Within the CMT community, every individual's journey is a testament to determination and strength. How do you navigate the ups and downs of CMT? We’d love to hear your strategies! Please dial in at (941) 233-5172 and share your tips, experiences, and stories of navigating CMT. These shared moments have the potential to inspire, bring comfort, and foster deeper connections. Selected stories might even find their way into upcoming episodes, offering insights and encouragement to others.

**Ready to Hear More Inspiring Tales?**

If you found Rick's journey moving or want to share your own story, check out our interest form and stay tuned for more conversations that bring the CMT community together.

CMT 4 Me is an emotional, heartfelt, and humorous podcast for the 3+ million people who have CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease), their friends, family, and the general public. CMT 4 Me provides a platform for people with CMT to have a voice, describe challenges, find ways to overcome those challenges, and share successes. Another goal is to spread CMT awareness and unite as a community. We will also cover research updates, fundraising, unique stories, interviews with the CMTA community, including board members, branch leaders, and CMTA team members. Have a story you’d like to share? Write to info@cmtausa.org. You may be our next guest on the new CMT 4 ME podcast! For more information on the CMTA, please visit our website: cmtausa.org

For more information about CMT and to support the CMTA, please visit www.cmtausa.org