By Charlotte Blease
Publication Date: 2026-02-16 08:30:00
My twin sister spent years going through consultations without finding a clear explanation for her symptoms. At some point, at age 31, she was told it was “wear and tear.” Another time she was told she might be depressed. Neither was true – and both completed further investigation.
The answers came slowly and uncertainty became routine. An unexpected encounter with a local doctor led to a diagnosis of myotonic muscular dystrophy.
Experiences like these are often dismissed as unfortunate or extraordinary. They are not. Diagnostic errors are common in all healthcare systems. Most people will experience at least one missed or delayed diagnosis during their lifetime. Women are more likely to dismiss symptoms…
