It is uncommon enough that it is included on the National Organization for Rare Disorders website. So little is known about it that the Mayo Clinic lists “public misunderstanding of the condition” as a complication. Though it is not likely to be deadly, it’s a condition that can make people prone to accidents.
Narcolepsy affects about 1 in 2,000 people, according to the National Sleep Foundation. People with narcolepsy do not simply sleep excessively or suffer from fatigue; some narcoleptics also have cataplexy — muscle paralysis when they feel a strong emotion — and some have sleep disturbances and hallucinations when they are awake.
Husband and wife Robby and Katy Roden, owners of 3Z Realty in San Marcos, have narcolepsy. And as the name of their real estate company implies, they work to inform people about the condition and support narcolepsy research. Every year on Narcolepsy Awareness Day — the day when Daylight Saving Time begins and everyone loses an hour of sleep -— the Rodens hold a “Suddenly Sleepy Saturday” event at the 3Z Realty office (2706 Hunter Road) to raise money and awareness. This year’s event is scheduled for 5-10 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, and will include a painting class, pajama party, food and entertainment.
