It’s been a long, lazy, uneventful summer. I’ve been sleeping a lot, reading too little, not writing at all, and taking way too much comfort in my complacency.
I forgot that MS can pull the rug out from under me at a moment’s notice, which it did a couple weeks ago. I haven’t had an exacerbation in years, so didn’t recognize the symptoms of a flare-up (severe pain in hands, wrists, and arms), until my left hand (my only functional appendage) suddenly stopped working. That got my attention!
Three days in the hospital on IV steroids restored function to my left hand. I can scratch my nose now, give a feeble wave, feed myself finger foods, type o-n-e l-e-t-t-e-r a-t a t-i-m-e with a pointing device, use the TV remote, and even hold a cup of coffee, if I’m lucky enough to get one.
I've also been assigned a series of hand exercises to practice daily. Hopefully, they’ll make me strong enough to erase “complacency” from my vocabulary, and live each day with more purpose and intention.
Take good care of yourselves, everyone!
Oh, isn't it awful when reality asserts itself?!?!? Sending all good wishes for continued improvement.
ReplyDeleteDear Persnickety;
ReplyDeleteToday is Tuesday, Sept. 1. I am finding that complacency, due to MS, does indeed infiltrate my life. But I am grateful I have not had any extended hospital visits in over 30 years. MS is a funny thing. Diagnosed with 2ndryMS in 2012 I too have discovered social media, find it cool, and sit on my butt a lot, due to MS. I am also grateful for people like you who share their experience, strength and hope with MS on the internet. In case you wondered, I am male, divorced, no kids, 46, learning to live with the daily challenges of MS, not into quilting, but am persnickety. Thanks for posting.
JE
Oh what we endure to that which makes us stronger...I have neuropathy in my hands & feet due to my Diabetes...and carpal tunnel..among a list of other issues......I greatly sympathize for you & wish you much better Days & positive thoughts...stay as strong as you can manage.
ReplyDeleteDebra in Ma.
My dears,
ReplyDeleteI don't have MS, but as I mature I find many things are becoming more difficult or needing more time to be completed. When I realized that 'someday' I might have difficulty typing, even on these new touch pads, I bought, Dragon, a software program that is for 'talk to text'. I haven't trained my dragon completely yet, but I think this would be an assistant to anyone who has difficulty using their fingers, etc. you have so much to share, and this would help make it easier on your body parts.
May God bless you with a season of restoration,
Luann