As a parent of children with Special Health Care needs, I am no stranger to doctor’s and their quirks or quirky diagnoses.
Today, I was diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy. Basically the nerves in my body don’t function like they should.
What does that mean?
I have constant pain. I also have muscle weakness that sometimes results in me falling down. In addition to the new diagnosis, I also have Systemic Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Serotonin Syndrome and a few other things. What is one more diagnosis?
Is it going to result in a catastrophic change in my life?
No, I don’t think so. I already walk with the aide of two canes, and on occasion have used either a walker or a wheelchair. Such is life.
What it does allow is for the medical personnel in my life to be more aggressive in pain management.
Not sure what that means, but anything is better than where we are now. As a bonus, maybe we can save my kidneys from long term damage caused by the current over the counter options that I eat like so much candy.
Many people ask me how I can be so positive about life.
My response: “It could always be worse.”
I can hug my children, talk with them, enjoy their lives, I spend time with my wife, friends, and other people who are important. I can see the sunrise, and watch the sun set.
I can enjoy the smell of the air after a rain storm, and listen to the birds enjoying the crisp morning air.
I can enjoy watching a kitten experience new things.
Life could always be worse. Besides, in some twisted way, the pain is a blessing. It lets me know that I am still very much alive. And from what I can see, that is a good thing.
I can either embrace life, or watch it pass me by. I don’t see too many other alternatives. 🙂
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Update: Today I was driving home from the city, and saw this:
Related articles
- Understanding Neuropathy: Causes and Means of Prevention (epicahealth.com)
- Peripheral Neuropathy Warning Reinforced By FDA: Fluoroquinolone Drug Labels To Better Describe The Dangers (medicaldaily.com)
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/peripheral-neuropathy/DS00131
