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glaidice

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I have home health care except for going in for electrical stimulation on my foot and leg for neuropathy. I am not diabetic but developed neuropathy from the damaged nerves when I had my stroke 7 years ago. I've come a very long way from being completely paralyzed on my left affected side to walking a mile around the park next to where I live. I've always lived alone (my preference) from day one when I came home from the hospital. I figured I'd have to learn to do things on my own anyway so I decided to start right away. To make a long, long story short, I still live very happily alone, drive, cook my own meals and so on. That's why my feathers got a little ruffled today when this doctor told me that it's been 7 years now and you know that people never return to themselves 100%, so I should maybe sell some of my furniture and think about getting rid of my library (though he likes it very much) so that I could use a rolling walker because as we age our balance naturally gets worse and I could be subject to falling easily)! :yeahrite: He said this because I told him I tripped in the kitchen and fell (anybody could have done this). I was fine though. His advice would have been taken a little better had I had a history of falling, but I don't. And I always have a phone on me for safety purposes anyway. He further asked if I intended to keep my apartment for any length of time and that maybe I could live with one of my daughters eventually if necessary. I know that he meant well but I was fuming when he left. I've taken care of myself all this time, grocery shopping, cleaning, socializing, exercising my body and mind. I've taken all of their tests and I have no blockages, no diabetes, no heart problems, no high blood pressure, and I'm a pesto/pollo vegetarian been told I'm healthy. Some drs. can be so discouraging. Thanks guys for letting me vent. :Tantrum:

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I usually have a good attitude...usually. But I admit that when it goes sour some doctor or nurse has just been talking. None of us want to let go of our independence or think of ever not being able to do for ourselves.

 

As discouraging and depressing as it is they have to ask us these things just in the event we do need the help sometime. That we have a plan that we can live with. Another thing is that they only have books and charts and statistics to go on but can't measure the human Spirit or determination. Just keep it in mind that you don't let determination become stubbornness to your detriment.

 

Jamie

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Doctors are not trained to understand or to support

independent, resourceful, hearty people like you.

 

Moreover, they don't meet many stroke survivors

who acclimate and prosper.

 

After hearing what your doctor said,

you were in a bad mood

because

 

#1 Your doctor ignored your reality.

#2 Your doctor doesn't believe in you.

#3 Your doctor insulted you.

 

In your place, I would look for a new Doctor --

but if that is not possible,

I expect you to continue

proving him wrong.

 

Boogie on,

Rachel

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Yep, the only way to get this out of your mind is to go on proving him wrong.

 

Nice to see you on blogging again. Welcome back.

 

Sue.

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I started making arrangements for Bruce's care, beyond me, at about three months post. I am all he has and if something happens to me, he can not live by himself.

 

While Doctor certainly could have presented this issue differently, take a step back and think about any contingency plans that you need to set up. Honey, this is no reflection on you or your recovery at all. It is a reminder that none of us are getting any younger. Actually, he may have felt you had made such great progress and established a wonderful life for yourself, that it might be time to take on a new project. One that involves you and your future security.

 

I know what you mean about living alone. I personally love being alone, not possible much these days. But I set up a trust for Bruce, in case anything happens to me he does not have to "fight" for the finances that are in fact truthfully his, bought cemetary plots, made all arrangements with Funeral parlor. Our Living Wills, POAs and wills are done. Beneficiaries on everything changed. This is just living and securing your future. You have spent the last seven years making a new life for yourself, one you are happy with and certainly proud of. This is just another step to insure your financial protection for the future. Think over what may come up in the future, what you need to set up ahead of time to protect yourself. Make sure everyone in your family understands exactly what you want.

 

I also purchased a very expensive new mattress, with a 20 year warranty. So you see, while it is tough to do, it must get done. And not all is negative. Once you are sure that your wants and needs are addressed, you put everything in a Fire-proof box and forget about it. Done and Done! Debbie

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Thank you all for your very helpful insight. My best friend in North Carolina also suggested that whatever equipment that I may need in the future or not need for that matter, get it while I can. Who knows how our insurance might change. I thought that was an excellent point also. Anyway, much love to all of you.

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Yep, the only way to get this out of your mind is to go on proving him wrong.

 

Nice to see you on blogging again. Welcome back.

 

Sue.

THANKS SUE

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