(Photo credit: Sean MacEntee) For those of us afflicted with a progressive, incurable disease, time is not on our side. The younger the patient, the more likely he or she will eventually benefit from life-changing advances in medical technology. But I am fast approaching that age and that level of disability where my own prospects… Continue reading The Future- Mine and Yours
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Kindle
I defy you to name a more amiable and lovely 18-year-old than Libby, my niece. She is simply a joy to be around. Libby and her parents recently paid us a visit, and she introduced me to her Kindle, an e-reader sold by Amazon.com. I was aware of its existence, but I’d never seen one… Continue reading Kindle
Power Bob
Why is it that two particular types of retailers treat consumers as if we are complete idiots? Yes, I’m referring to auto dealerships and discount furniture stores, and their inane commercials. Although they annoy me to no end, I have been known to purchase items from these establishments if they have a great deal. I… Continue reading Power Bob
CCSVI – Round Two: The Details
On March 16, 2011, I was treated a second time for a condition called CCSVI, which is thought by some to be associated with multiple sclerosis. My first treatment was on was on March 17, 2010. To read about that earlier procedure, click here. The purpose of this post is to share some of the… Continue reading CCSVI – Round Two: The Details
Not a Cure, But Very Cool Technology
I’m awaiting some feedback from Dr. Siskin before I post images and other details about my March 16 CCSVI procedure. In the meantime, please consider the video below, which demonstrates an amazing technological advance that may help disabled people while we wait for real cures.
CCSVI – Round Two: After the Procedure
“There…we are done. I’ll see you in recovery,” said Dr. Siskin. One more CCSVI procedure was now in my rearview mirror. I don’t dread these- it’s not like real surgery- but still, it’s a relief when they withdraw that wire from your groin. I was wheeled back into the prep room, which doubled as the… Continue reading CCSVI – Round Two: After the Procedure
CCSVI – Round Two: Treatment Day
My worst nightmare was coming true. Everyone kept introducing themselves and telling me their names. Didn’t they know that the name-remembering part of my brain didn’t work, doesn’t work, never has worked, even before MS started eating away at my central nervous system? The staff at Albany Medical Center probably realized this and took great… Continue reading CCSVI – Round Two: Treatment Day
CCSVI – Round Two: The Day Before the Procedure
The drive to Albany, where I had my second CCSVI treatment, is so much different than the drive to Brooklyn, where I had my first. This is true until you get about ten blocks from the Albany Medical Center, where the poor, inner-city section of Albany rivals any tough neighborhood in New York City. But… Continue reading CCSVI – Round Two: The Day Before the Procedure
CCSVI Treatment – Let’s Give This One More Try
On Wednesday, March 16, 2011, I will undergo a second round of CCSVI treatment, in a determined if not desperate attempt to slow the progression of my MS. This procedure will be performed by Dr. Gary Siskin, the chairman of the Radiology Department at Albany Medical Center. Why am I putting myself through this? Haven’t… Continue reading CCSVI Treatment – Let’s Give This One More Try
Which Would You Rather Have? Round Three – Progressive Disability Versus Ignorant Asshole Social Syndrome (IASS)
Image via Wikipedia Last year I posted my first two rounds of the “Which Would You Rather Have” discussions. I compared progressive disability to sudden disability and to cancer. Progressive disability is what I have. My particular version is called Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS). I was diagnosed 9 years ago with the slightest limp.… Continue reading Which Would You Rather Have? Round Three – Progressive Disability Versus Ignorant Asshole Social Syndrome (IASS)