- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Interviews
Jeff's interview
How did all start?
It was early in November 2008. I was stress free and physically active, running 3-5 miles per day and exercising daily. On my early morning run on Saturday November 8th, I didn’t feel quite right. I wasn’t sure what it was. I felt like I was having vertigo at first and then a slight loss of balance. So I decided to return home instead of completing my usual run. On Sunday I felt exhausted and run down, so I didn’t run at all.
Lucky for me I had a doctor appointment set for Monday to check my blood pressure. I had a tingling sensation in my hands and feet at times throughout the morning and at times a complete loss of balance. Upon seeing my primary physician, he immediately sent me on to see a Neurologist. I was then immediately admitted to the hospital diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
yes. Immediately.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
have “Rebound Headaches” that slowly became Migraines that I still suffer with today. Referrals were made and I was sent to see specialist at Mayo-Clinic Rochester, Minnesota.
Depression, anxiety, loneliness, and stress, are also just a few of the side effects that go along with this disease. There is no one who knows how you feel.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
My advice to anyone who has GBS is first and foremost… Never give up and be strong. Everyday is a new day. Take it one day at a time. Look at yourself in the mirror each day and say I can do this and I will do this today. Try everyday to do something new, even if it’s just something small. It’s also best if you keep a daily journal. Sometimes writing things down helps you process your frustrations and how you feel at that exact moment with the effects of GBS. And remember, never, never give up.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Inability to do normal things I use to be able to do. Like my running 3-5 miles I can't do anymore. I can't work a normal job anymore due to the Migraines and the exhaustion.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Yes. The support has been great with the immediate family. Outer family and friends do not understand and many have shuttered me out.
What things have you stopped doing?
Running, socializing in groups, going out to events with family, things like these.
What do you think about the future?
I try to stay upbeat and positive daily.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Each year is one step better than the last.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Live a normal life
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
I can't, its too hard to describe in one sentence.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Be strong and live each day positive.
