My Disabilities Page
Some of my disabilities I've been living with for many years. For the longest time I could ignore them or work around them. But, recently I've had a few new diagnoses and have had to make new adjustments in my life.
I've had deteriorating lumbar disks and IBS for quite some time now. They can be difficult to deal with, but with the help of medication, I can live a somewhat normal life. I've also been diagnosed with Diabetes and Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel, Arthritis and Neuropathy in my legs. Fibromyalgia has really increased my other problems, which, I have found out, are also parts of the Fibromyalgia Syndrome. IBS, Carpal Tunnel, Arthritis and leg problems are associated with Fibro. There are no cures for IBS, Carpal Tunnel, Arthritis,my Neuropathy, or my back problems. They aren't terminal, but they have been making my life a bit difficult lately. Since this page was originally up, I've had surgery in both hands for the Carpal Tunnel. That's been a big help, but I'm finding that I still have some occasional numbness in the pinkie and ring finger of my right hand. Oh well.
I used to have very strong legs and could walk very fast. Lately, anything but walking around the house exausts me and causes me great pain. When I go to a store, I have to use a wheelchair or electric cart. This rather limits where I can go-if a store doesn't provide either an electric cart or wheelchair, I can't shop there. I'm looking into getting my own wheelchair, and perhaps electric cart. My arms are weaker than they used to be, but I can still wheel myself around. It is amazing how much one's life can change in such a short time. Since the above was written I now have my own wheelchair and am walking quite a bit better, although I use a cane outside the house. I also ordered a very pretty cane with flowers. I thought if I needed one, I might as well have a nice one!
I refuse to give up, though. My life may be different than before, but I think I'm making adjustments pretty well. So much of this is new to me. It seems like it all happened so fast. If anything, I think this has made me stronger and helped me to appreciate all the little things in life. I try to concentrate more on what I CAN do than what I can't. I believe there are ways to cope with almost anything. Perhaps it won't be an easy road, but it is still there to travel, and there will always be things to discover. Dealing with adversity can teach great lessons. Sometimes when you get a lot of lemons in your life, you just have to learn to make lemonade! Its all in the attitude.
Gorgeous background graphics & buttons by Karen's Graphics. Copyright © 2005
