Almost 7 years ago, I suffered from fasciculation anxiety syndrome in clinicians (FASICS). I knew nothing about it at the time, not even the name. I was unaware I was the perfect target: a 47-year-old male neurologist.

I was going through a very intense period of work. I had several oral presentations to make at the national congress of neurology, one of which was particularly challenging; I was supposed to discuss a difficult case, after which the pathologist would provide the solution. I spent several evenings and nights, weeks before the event, reviewing carefully the literature, to ensure I would not miss the correct diagnosis. I had other more academic talks to prepare, as well as written or reviewed manuscripts to referee, not to mention routine clinical activity in my hospital, including outpatients, electroencephalogram readings and meetings. And that was only work. I also had several roles in different medical societies and journals. In short, it was a hectic, stressful period.

I was fit, with no medical history, on no medication, with a lovely family, and a sub-3.5-hour marathon to prepare for in the spring. An ordinary man, and quite an ordinary life, but a neurologist, and a 47-year-old man.

Looking …