| 30 Months Post-Op Things are fairly stable at this point--the left side dystonia continues to remain. I went on Dec. 23rd to see my movement disorder specialist to see if adjustments may be of help. He tried at least a dozen combinations, but ended up basically where my surgeon had me, but upped the voltage to 3.5. My battery life was checked--everything was looking good. I have been doing many speaking engagements regarding how the dbs has changed my life. At the last one, I demonstrated how the Access Review Controller operates. When I demonstrated the battery life button--it had changed from green to orange. I went to see my neurosurgeon last week, we are aiming for May 12th as our tentative battery replacement day. He did feel as though I could wait for 3 yr. anniversary, but I don't want to take chances, especially with summer coming up. I have discovered that my new vocation has changed from teaching children, to teaching adults about pd and the benefits of dbs. I have been very active with fund-raising eforts for the Parkinson's Unity Walk on April 26th. I am also trying to promote our local support group, designing a brochure, getting a wesite set up, as well as an e-mail address. One of our members recently called me to let me know that his care partner had passed away. He said he wanted to talk to me as I am the "spark" of the group. What a nice compliment!!! I refuse to let PD steal my life==I am fighting it every moment. Yet the "invisible monster" that has taken charge of my brain occasionally wins a few battles. |