- Transverse myelitis
- Interviews
How did all start?
Following a long standing sinus infection and leading into a chest infection, I felt very I’ll. During the night I was attempting to get up to the loo, and collapsed onto the floor. I had no reflex’s in my legs, I couldn’t get up.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
This happened to me in 2003, I was seen in the ER by 2 Asian house surgeons who got their boss to confirm TM . That was 4hrs after arriving in the ER.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I was under Neurology for 2years and Urology for 6years, Opthamalogy for 2yrs. The most useful specialty was Urology, I ended up Self Cathing.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
A great Neurologist with whom I have complete trust.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Walking long distances, riding a bike.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Very supportive, but because I am unable to walk much I no longer get asked to be included. Plane travel has become tricky.
What things have you stopped doing?
Biking recreational. Walking long distances.
What do you think about the future?
I enjoy doing my craft at home, life is good.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
My best years have been since I retired. I as 64.5 and now I am 71. Work became stressful and tended to suffer from extreme sweating. Not now.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Bikng
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Take the good times when you can. Don’t fret about what might happen or what has happened.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Be patient, keep a journal of your improvement. Be positive about your recovery.
