A photo of me at home

A photo of me at home
A new photo of me and Jean at home

Wednesday, 21 August 2013

Living with MND - 2008



January
I can get a wee bit “choked up” at meal times, which seems to result in a “runny nose” followed usually by a sneeze that clear the tubes.  Part of my daily routine was to walk with the “walking aid” a distance of approximately 20metres, but a fragile left hip, and occasional collapsing left leg I’ve lost all confidence in attempting to walk at this time.

April
I got the chance to attend “The Oaks” -- a Macmillan palliative care day centre for six free sessions at their “Complementary Therapy Clinic” which included Reiki, Reflexology,  and Body Massage.

May
Fell with walking aid, because of the phone ringing. Had to attend the Rehabilitation/ Rheumatology Clinic for assessment.

July/August
Jean had a few days in bed because of not feeling well.  I’ve always said though, if one looks hard enough “there is always benefits’ comes out of adversity”. In this instance, I had to fend for myself (including meals on two separate days, which  took me out of my comfort zone, and improved my confidence)

September
Jean and two friends had a four night away break at our “time share”     

December
Overall 2008 has been very good to me, with little deterioration, and a good quality of life.

 

My Thoughts

On entering “The Oaks” it had a lovely serene ambience, and thoughtful cheery staff at reception. I’m a very poor participant regarding Reiki/Reflexology as I feel one must enter such manipulations with an open mind: being a sceptic I feel I didn’t benefit. The back, shoulder, and neck massage however was very relaxing: not that I was experiencing any pain prior to the treatment. Overall the treatments gave me a nice cared for, pampered, and general feeling of well-being. 

To avoid falls, I’ve really got to concentrate, focus, and do risk assessment in every situation because of my very sensitive reflexes at any sudden unexpected noise. Plus my reactions are so “sloth like” that arms or hands are no protection if I start to fall.

When on the floor I find myself totally helpless: It’s really quite frightening!

2008 has been a positive and satisfying year. Any problems thrown at me I’ve improvised, and adapted to well. To date my illness has been virtually pain free.

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