Life with MND - May 2014

Dietician arranged for me to get weighed at our cottage hospital in Forres. Both the dietician and I are very happy with my weight of 63kg (10-3) considering last time weighed was 14/11/2013 when I was 65kg.

Our Occupational Therapist organised a demonstration of a neck brace and a mobile floating arm aid - I was impressed with both items - they would certainly be of benefit at this stage of my illness, so OT will try and get funding for both items.

Retaining this month of well-being I’m happy with my sleep pattern over the past two months, although far from perfect, but considering my present level that MND has progressed - It’s very acceptable!  Also, in bed I can still do beneficial exercises, that no way could I do from the chair.

With nothing further of interest to say on MND, now would be a good time to air my views on the referendum.

First, I’ve voted SNP, for the past 25 years. Not, I hasten to add for breaking up the Union, but to get more say for Scotland regards political considerations. Now having achieved this, it’s time to consider if Scotland could be independent. According to Google the population of London is over 8 million, whilst Scotland just over 5 million. To think a small concentrated pocket of people in England could theoretically, politically control a geographical area the size of Scotland is frightening and certainly if contemplating a ‘yes’ vote for independence, is food for thought!  

 Other points to ponder for a yes vote on independence:

Those against separation say Scotland couldn’t support itself, but after 300 years of Westminster rule one may say that over that period, we have lost our creative industry etc. 

Small is beautiful - and Scotland with its current population, I feel falls into a manageable category. Also beautiful scenery - lucrative for tourism;  Energy scope with it’s potential wave and water for future hydro schemes, could  well be able to become self-sufficient for it’s energy. 

I’m listing to all arguments for and against, readers will surmise that I’ve a strong leaning towards independence, but my decision will be taken nearer the date. Anyway I feel it’s not us in the twilight of our years, but the younger generation who will have to  face up to the coming years, which ever way the vote goes.