Life with MND - 2011 - Part 3

October
I had two upper front crown teeth fitted at the dentist’s. Normally I get my six month examination done by tilting the head back from the manual chair I use when visiting, but on these occasions it was two, half hour appointments, so I managed to transfer from my manual to a special tilting chair adapted for disabled — no problem! And now I have the confidence to smile again. (I find that if visitors see me happy and smiling then they respond in a similar fashion).

 Because of my on-going deterioration in the left hip I had a visit from the Occupational Therapist affiliated to the suppliers of my wheelchairs, who measured me up for a narrower manual chair with a gel cushion built up on the left side. 

Jean had a two night wee break away from her caring duties, so Ross came in for sleepovers. Coped well, but found having to do a little more by my self was tiring!!

November

Fell whilst dressing because of progressively  weakening right arm. It inadvertently touched the “on button” of the electric chair, followed by my shirt cuff catching the “joystick” so propelling it forward and knocking me down.

The light switches are also getting a bit of a problem as the arm struggles to reach them at times. I have to get Jean to assist me to get my heavier tops on over my head as my arms weaken. They are ok when close to the body, but the second they move away, whether it’s out or upwards, they become a bit of a disaster.

December

The strength and mobility of “my trusty right arm” has really weakened this month, plus further deterioration in the left has meant Jean has to help a bit more in my dressing. In a way it’s a relief!! The thought of losing a bit more of my independence is I find, not as bad as anticipated!

Jean is always more than willing to help which is great, but five years in wheelchairs, plus my age, it would be so easy to lose my suppleness, so I’m avid believer in - if you don’t want to lose it, use it for as long as possible.

To summarise 2011

I’d say it’s been my toughest challenging year since being diagnosed.  Consequently I’ve had to try and upped my concentration yet another notch to maintain a reasonable level of independence. 

Although, I now tire easily it was great having family and friends over the festive period.

 

Aye life and a wee dram is still precious!!!