Nathan Barnica has always held a keen interest in and passion for bowling. He has honed his skills over the years through involvement in different team leagues. But in 2018, he faced an unexpected challenge. In an article in LancasterOnline, Philip Glatfelter explains that Barnica was headed to the bowling alley to watch his team compete when he experienced sudden muscle weakness. When Barnica tried to step out of the car, his leg buckled. His right leg became fully paralyzed. Barnica began to panic and his family rushed him to the hospital. Testing found that Barnica had acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare neurologic condition. Barnica soon underwent inpatient rehabilitation. 

His first stop once he eventually left the hospital? The bowling alley to watch his team compete in their Saturday league. At 13 years old, Barnica found himself back at square one with bowling. He began with a 6 lb. ball and used a crutch to help him while he bowled. His resilience and determination drove him towards continuous improvement.

Now, Barnica held a 212 average this past season, was within the top 12 qualifiers at the Eastern Regional Championships, and has qualified for the state tournament. He no longer requires a brace or crutch to bowl (although he does utilize a special bowling shoe for his right leg). As the state tournament approaches, Barnica knows that he needs to mentally and physically prepare—but knows that his mindset will help him to come out on top!  

An Overview of Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious neurological condition that causes muscle and reflexes to weaken (becoming “flaccid”). Doctors are unsure of the exact cause, though many hypothesize that AFM results from a viral trigger. Acute flaccid myelitis causes gray matter inflammation in the spinal cord. A large majority of cases occur in children, though AFM may occur in older individuals. Symptoms often manifest rapidly and can include:

• Facial drooping and weakness
• Arm and leg muscle weakness
• Loss of muscle tone and reflexes
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty swallowing
• Arm, leg, neck, and back pain 
• Difficulty moving the eyes 
• Blood pressure instability
• Respiratory failure

There is no cure for AFM. Treatment is symptomatic and may include physical or occupational therapy. You can also attempt to prevent AFM transmission through washing your hands often, frequently cleaning heavily-used surfaces, staying home when sick, and staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations.