Tuesday 25 January 2011

I survived the gym

Despite last minute trepidation and a strong desire not to go, I made it through my first gym session today. I started by using an MS knowledgeable trainer, to make sure I did things properly and got the most out of it

The trainer was worth every penny, as he took me through the exercise machines and stretches, working out what was best for me. Although it wasn't  a full workout, I was getting tired by the end. But we have set out  a detailed plan for me, including stretches to do at home, in between gym sessions. Having someone there , as well as helping me do things correctly,  helped keep me going rather than giving up and going home.

Once I had showered and dressed, I did feel quite energised, although I think I'll sleep well tonight. This seeems to fit in with current findings. Read more here.

Although in the past it was thought that exercise was not suitable for MS  patients, because of the fear that it might bring on an exacerbation.

But latest information is that exercise may actually help protect our brains, reducing inflammation and loss of white matter. Which also fits with the CCSVI hypothesis, as exercise will improve circulation in the brain.

So roll on Friday and my next session.

Monday 24 January 2011

4 month update

Still feeling the benefit, so I guess no re-stenosis, and no placebo effect.

It has been a while since I posted because I have been caught up in ordinary life. Yes, folks, you did read ordinary. Such a plain word, but so magical for a person with MS. How many times have we uttered the cry "I just want to be normal", only to find ourselves adapting to our new normal. Which is not what most people would consider normal at all.

Christmas and New Year have come and gone, along with the snow and really severe frosts. Although Winter may still have some surprises up her sleeve. But the first snowdrops are poking their heads out of the ground. Spring can't be that far away.

We were looking at some photos of being out in the snow last night. Last years ones were obvious - they were the ones where I was using a stick.

I am logging my status on CCSVI tracking and looking forward to my six month check-up in Poland. One thing that friends have commented on is that the tracking site tends to show a big initial improvement, then a gradual decrease as time goes by. I wonder though if this is a genuine deterioration, or others like myself find it harder and harder to remember what their pre-operation state was like.

The act of recording makes you focus on every little thing, and what would have been ignored in the general scheme of things assumes an overly great significance. It is not always MS.

But I have still come so far. I work 20-25 hours a week. I can read and comprehend something first time through. I have signed up at a gym with a personal trainer who knows about MS. No stick. My bladder functions like it belongs to an adult not a toddler. I get tired and sleep normally. I don't need medication just to get through a day.

Thank you Dr Zamboni.