discussion title:
*** Updates on Health Issues, etc. ***
I have felt for quite a while as though I am really letting all you great people down. I started off with lots of ideas and good intentions, but I've been having a series of health problems that have just kind of taken "the starch" out of me.
Back in June I had cubital tunnel surgery for my right hand. It is done on the elbow to release the nerve that controls the little and ring fingers. I was in a cast for nearly a month and then had two months of intensive physical therapy. This past month I have been continuing the exercises on my own. Unfortunately, my hand has never felt "right" since surgery. In terms of function, I think it is actually worse. I went back to the surgeon, who said the results of the surgery were satisfactory, but he didn't know what else is going on. So, he sent me for another nerve conduction test. I had that this morning. It turns out that the problem is actually in my neck and that is what caused the other problems. So, now I have to go back to the surgeon and my family doctor. He says they will probably order an X-ray and MRI. He asked about injuries. I've had three whiplash accidents, one of which was fairly serious. Anyhow, I am just sick and pretty angry. My hand does not feel or work right. No way is anyone going to persuade me to go under any more surgery. I was more helpless after this than after any of the multitude of other surgeries I've had over the years.
One doctor also suggested that he thought I may have Parkinson's disease. Unfortunately, there are not nearly enough neurologists around here. You can't get in for an evaluation until sometime next year. A couple of other people in the medical field have said they don't see any of the typical signs of Parkinson's, but I do have a tremor and my mother had Parkinson's.
Right now I am both angry and depressed. I am so discouraged about this hand business. At my age, 70, nothing comes very easily any more. To top it all off, I have this nasty "little" cold that is hanging on and on and on.
Anyhow, I have come to the conclusion that it is time for me to step down as CL. You people deserve a CL who can really stay on top of things. I don't have it in me any more. Thank heavens for our special member, N2ishn, who has been stepping it to help you all in so many ways.
I hope to continue visiting from time to time and I may even post once in a while if I run across something worth sharing.
This is such a great board and such a terribly important topic these days!
Much love,
cl-ladybug987
CL of Stress & Women
