Darrell's interview
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How did all start?
I had several head injuries while riding horses. I also have high blood pressure. I have been taking meds for it for years.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I have had several false starts that have led to nothing happening. I had a shunt put in almost two years ago and it never worked, it failed. So my surgeon tied it off. He told me if I so desired I could chose to have my shunt replaced. He set up a date and just before I was taken back for surgery he discovered my platelet count quite low so I was sent home. With no idea what is in store. Is this fatal. They put me in in home hospice which I presume that is for terminal patients. I need answers and I am not getting any.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I don't understand.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
My wife has kept me alive.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
I feel that nearly everything has been taken from me.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Everything has changed. I can't walk. I was a musician and an artist. My ability is affected but since the stroke my desire is gone.
What things have you stopped doing?
Nearly everything.
What do you think about the future?
I'm not sure if I have one.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
The years before the stroke.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Be my old self.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Destroyed.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
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