Live Love Laugh with Carol
Contact Carol
  • Home
  • Love Story
  • ALS
  • Blog
  • Tips & Tricks
  • Gallery
  • Travel
  • Media
  • Calendar
  • DONATE

Medical Update

8/15/2014

2 Comments

 
Yesterday, Travis & I met with the Neurologist who diagnosed me in September.  I had some more EMG tests where they stick needles in my muscles to measure how well and how fast the nerves can send electrical signals (ouch!).  As predicted, the strength in my muscles has decreased, and he stated that my progression is average and maybe even a bit better than average.  He thought I was doing well, as if you saw me seated, no one would even know that I have ALS.  In terms of strength, my left side continues to be the weaker side, with considerable weakening of the left foot.  I'm being fitted for my right foot orthosis (leg brace) which will help with stability and strength when walking.  My feet are always cold due to poor circulation, but the doctor said that is nothing to worry about.  I've also had my first visit with a psychologist to help deal with the mental stress of living with ALS.  I am still independent and able to drive, though activities tire me out more easily so I need to build in rest times for my new lifestyle.  Some days are better than others both mentally and physically.  I met with the respirologist for my breathing tests and though my lung muscle function has decreased slightly, my lung capacity is 100%.  My occupational therapist has been visiting to help me get fitted for a power wheelchair which will have a tilt function to help support my back. 
August has been chock-a-block of doctor's visits, and I have a wonderful team to support me with the tools I need to continue with my passion which is TRAVEL (after Travis of course!).  

2 Comments
Heather
8/17/2014 10:59:21 am

Heather the Optimist takes this all as good news; here to support your passions however I can xxoo

Reply
Kate
8/19/2014 07:12:50 pm

Girls trip to Vegas! Go gals. xx

The ALS ice idea is impressive, really getting the word out there and makes those that have no ideas what it is to really shock the system.

I am very aware of what this condition entails and I love the way you are staying in the moment, prioritising what is important to you and not letting fear rule.

Inspirational!

Love you Carol and Trav. x

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Author

    Carol Jean Skinner (née Sharman)
    born October 19
    lives in Ottawa, Canada

    Archives

    September 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013

    RSS Feed

carol skinner  - rolyskinner@gmail.com
travis skinner - skinnertravis@gmail.com