MS Maze

I prefer not to use a cane, but when I do I have a delightful assortment to choose from.

Back in 2003, when I set out to purchase my first cane, I gravitated toward “quiet” canes… canes that would not command much attention, but Jake stopped me in my tracks. “If you’re going to use a cane,” he said, “USE A CANE! Make a statement! Be bold!” With that advice in mind, I chose a red paisley cane that was sure to get noticed. I never regretted that decision.

Beyond the fashion statement, though, my cane announces to everyone in the vicinity that I am not quite able-bodied, and that maybe I should be given a little extra slack. It is a symbol as clear as the handicapped placard in a park…

Read: Dual Purpose Cane

MS and Marriage: For the Patient/Spouse: 5 Ways to Show You Care

There’s nothing quite so satisfying as a happy marriage, but MS and marriage can be a volatile combination. MS is, by nature, extremely unpredictable, not only when looking toward the future, but on a day-to-day basis. It places enormous strains on family life and completely obliterates any sense of normalcy.

Both the patient/spouse and the caregiver/spouse undergo major role changes, and each must cope with the new order of things. It’s important to remember that you are, first and foremost, a husband and wife.

Here are five simple ways to help you put your marriage before MS and keep it there.

An MS Maze Recommendation:

You Can Do It Yoga for MS

DVD 1 - $19.95

This DVD contains 2 complete classes. The first is a seated yoga class. It includes a complete class along with guided meditation.

Runtime: 47 minutes

The second class is a very gentle yoga class. It includes getting onto the floor and stretching along with a guided meditation.

Runtime: 58 minutes

I purchased this DVD and would like to recommend it to anyone who is having trouble exercising. The first class on the DVD is yoga while seated, and the second class is a beginner level. It is challenging, yet will not exhaust you. It has done wonders for me. This is not a paid advertisement.

One of the worst times in the life of a multiple sclerosis patient is the pre-diagnosis phase. Symptoms come and go before you manage to see a doctor. You get the feeling that you are not being taken seriously by physicians. You’ve researched online and self-diagnosed. All you want at this point is the real diagnosis and the assurance that you are not crazy. On the other hand, you really don’t want to her those words, “You have MS.” Continue…

For Privacy’s Sake: Let’s Be Careful Out There!

I can’t even begin to guess the number of health-related blogs which exist. Most are written by and for people who have been diagnosed with a chronic condition. The authors are looking to lend their support as well as to receive it. At the risk of sounding our own horn, we are a very well-intentioned group of people.

In our effort to enlighten and entertain, we often share very personal information. We tell of our diagnosis, our prescribed medications, our trials and tribulations. We spill out our heart and soul. At the push of a button, this information is available for all the world to see and, once set free on the world-wide web, can never be taken back.

We live in a country which protects us in the workplace when it comes to disability or illness. Our employers, or perspective employers, are not at liberty to ask about our medical condition. They cannot deny us a job based on our health history.

There is no law, however, which prevents them from “googling” the names of perspective employees. In fact, most companies do just that. So do potential dates, in-laws, friends, acquaintances…and strangers.

Do we really want anyone and everyone to have access to our personal health history? The names and dosages of prescribed medications? Diagnoses which they may or may not fully comprehend? Our address, age and personal contacts? Photos of ourselves, our homes and families?

When it comes to privacy, so much has changed in the last decade. In many instances, we’ve all but given up even the pretense of privacy. When it comes to medical information, we may want to think twice before hitting that “publish” button.

For bloggers, it is a personal decision. We each need to decide for ourselves where to draw the line. Let’s be careful out there!

As thoughts turn to resolutions for the new year, take the time to consider the little things which can make life easier. Don’t hesitate to take the steps necessary to improve your quality of life. Remember, doing what is necessary to keep yourself independent will allow you to be LESS disabled.

Mandy’s Tips Revisited:

1 - The Many Charms of a Folding Cane

Do yourself a big favor and purchase at least one folding cane. You can find them in many drug and health supply stores or purchase them on line. They are available at very reasonable prices and in a variety of styles and colors.

Lightweight and easy to fold within seconds to fit in a large purse or tote bag, this handy helper will earn its keep. Store one in your car, your spouse’s car, your place of business, your best friend’s house or wherever you might find yourself suddenly needing a little support. The cane will be there when you need it and easily stored away when you don’t.

When traveling by airplane, they can fit in the seat pocket or overhead bin quite easily. If you don’t need it on travel day, just tuck it away in your suitcase.

The first time I decided to purchase a cane, I was searching for something plain and inconspicuous until my husband said, “If you’re going to use a cane, USE A CANE!” He sure had the right idea. I now have a collection of canes in different colors and styles to suit my mood or outfit. They’ve actually turned out to be excellent conversation pieces when out in public. Sometimes I get just a glance, sometimes people ask me where I bought it. Sometimes they just ask me why I’m using a cane when I don’t seem to need one. That’s when I know it’s doing it’s job.

2 - Give Yourself a Break with a Shower Chair

Purchase a sturdy shower chair for your tub/shower so that it is available when you need it. You can find them in most drug stores, medical supply stores or online at reasonable prices. A shower chair can make all the difference in the world when you have trouble standing or difficulty with balance. It can be easily stored away or moved aside when not needed.

Give yourself a break and equip your bathroom with grab bars as well. By taking steps to ensure your own safety and well-being you can avoid accidents and injuries. A little pre-planning can keep you independent, and ultimately, you will feel better about yourself.

Don’t let your pride stand in your way. Take charge and work through the maze that is multiple sclerosis!

3 - Get a Handicapped Placard for Your Car

Apply for a handicapped placard for your car. You can download and print the application directly from the Department of Motor Vehicles site in your state, and they are valid throughout all fifty states. Each state has its own regulations, so check it out online or by phone before taking a trip to the DMV.

A physician’s signature will be required. Ask your doctor to sign for a permanent placard. In my state, Virginia, I was able to choose either a handicapped license plate for my car, or the placard which is placed on the rear view mirror. Choosing the placard will enable you to take it with you when you are a passenger in someone else’s vehicle or when traveling out-of-state.

A personal pet peeve of mine is seeing these placards hanging on the rear view mirror while the car is on the road. Please, please, please, remove the placard when driving and keep your view open! You only need to hang it when parking. Also, please don’t lend it out to others. It’s just not right, and it’s against the law.

On another personal note, I choose to use mine only when necessary. When I’m in a remission, I save the treasured handicapped spaces for those who really need them and get myself some much needed exercise in the process. It’s a win, win situation.

When you do need it, however, don’t hesitate to use it. You may feel conspicuous getting out of your car and walking, while appearing to be perfectly healthy to others. Don’t let it bother you. YOU know you need it and only you know what a huge difference it is making in your day. It’s another tool at your disposal to help keep you independent. Take charge and work the maze!

4 - Keep a Tall Kitchen Stool Handy

Legs giving you trouble while working in the kitchen? Keep a tall kitchen stool handy. You can sit at a comfortable height while chopping vegetables, keeping an eye on the stove or doing the dishes. Get in the habit of gathering together everything you’ll need in one spot rather than making multiple trips around the kitchen. Grab the stool, have a seat and enjoy your kitchen again. When not in use the stool can be easily put aside.

This is the first adjustment I made after MS entered my and life it’s made a world of difference. Nothing fancy required. Any tall stool will do.

One more way for you to take charge, maintain your independence and work the maze.

5 - No Slip Slippers

One of the best and most inexpensive investments I’ve made to make life with MS easier is buying the right kind of slippers.

I experimented for awhile and finally ended up with, and highly recommend, Isotoner Ballerina Slippers.

These slippers stay on my feet — no flopping off, no falling out, no fear of tripping. They weigh next to nothing, so during exacerbations, I’m still as light on my feet as possible and the no-skid soles keep me from sliding. The cost is around $18.00.

I must admit that prior to purchasing the Isotoners, I tried a cheaper, knock off brand, and was very disappointed in the quality and fit and it wasn’t long before they ended up in the trash.

The Isotoners brand makes a similar product for men without the “ballerina” looks.

It’s a good value for safety and comfort. Visit Mandy’s Closet under “Handy Helpers” to see for yourself.

6 - PenAgain

My husband came across an interesting item while shopping and could not bring himself to wait until Christmas to present it to me.

It is called “PenAgain”. What an amazing device! This pen will instantly improve your control and allow you to write legibly again. An odd looking device with an ergonomic design, it will alleviate the need to grip.

If you have difficulty writing for any reason you owe it to yourself to give PenAgain a try.

Available in metal or plastic and a variety of colors, PenAgain can be found in many retail stores or online.

Visit Mandy’s Closet

These are NOT paid advertisements.

PenAgain

My husband came across an interesting item while shopping and could not bring himself to wait until Christmas to present it to me.

It is called “PenAgain”. What an amazing device! This pen will instantly improve your control and allow you to write legibly again. An odd looking device with an ergonomic design, it will alleviate the need to grip.

If you have difficulty writing for any reason you owe it to yourself to give PenAgain a try.

Available in metal or plastic and a variety of colors, PenAgain can be found in many retail stores or online.

This is not a paid advertisement.

No Slip Slippers

One of the best and most inexpensive investments I’ve made to make life with MS easier is buying the right kind of slippers.

I experimented for awhile and finally ended up with, and highly recommend, Isotoner Ballerina Slippers.

These slippers stay on my feet — no flopping off, no falling out, no fear of tripping. They weigh next to nothing, so during exacerbations, I’m still as light on my feet as possible and the no-skid soles keep me from sliding. The cost is around $18.00.

I must admit that prior to purchasing the Isotoners, I tried a cheaper, knock off brand, and was very disappointed in the quality and fit and it wasn’t long before they ended up in the trash.

The Isotoners brand makes a similar product for men without the “ballerina” looks.

It’s a good value for safety and comfort. Visit Mandy’s Closet under “Handy Helpers” to see for yourself.

Keep a Tall Kitchen Stool Handy

Legs giving you trouble while working in the kitchen? Keep a tall kitchen stool handy. You can sit at a comfortable height while chopping vegetables, keeping an eye on the stove or doing the dishes. Get in the habit of gathering together everything you’ll need in one spot rather than making multiple trips around the kitchen. Grab the stool, have a seat and enjoy your kitchen again. When not in use the stool can be easily put aside.

This is the first adjustment I made after MS entered my and life it’s made a world of difference. Nothing fancy required. Any tall stool will do.

One more way for you to take charge, maintain your independence and work the maze.

Get a Handicapped Placard for Your Car

Apply for a handicapped placard for your car. You can download and print the application directly from the Department of Motor Vehicles site in your state, and they are valid throughout all fifty states. Each state has its own regulations, so check it out online or by phone before taking a trip to the DMV.

A physician’s signature will be required. Ask your doctor to sign for a permanent placard. In my state, Virginia, I was able to choose either a handicapped license plate for my car, or the placard which is placed on the rear view mirror. Choosing the placard will enable you to take it with you when you are a passenger in someone else’s vehicle or when traveling out-of-state.

A personal pet peeve of mine is seeing these placards hanging on the rear view mirror while the car is on the road. Please, please, please, remove the placard when driving and keep your view open! You only need to hang it when parking. Also, please don’t lend it out to others. It’s just not right, and it’s against the law.

On another personal note, I choose to use mine only when necessary. When I’m in a remission, I save the treasured handicapped spaces for those who really need them and get myself some much needed exercise in the process. It’s a win, win situation.

When you do need it, however, don’t hesitate to use it. You may feel conspicuous getting out of your car and walking, while appearing to be perfectly healthy to others. Don’t let it bother you. YOU know you need it and only you know what a huge difference it is making in your day. It’s another tool at your disposal to help keep you independent. Take charge and work the maze!

Give Yourself a Break with a Shower Chair

Purchase a sturdy shower chair for your tub/shower so that it is available when you need it. You can find them in most drug stores, medical supply stores or online at reasonable prices. A shower chair can make all the difference in the world when you have trouble standing or difficulty with balance. It can be easily stored away or moved aside when not needed.

Give yourself a break and equip your bathroom with grab bars as well. By taking steps to ensure your own safety and well-being you can avoid accidents and injuries. A little pre-planning can keep you independent and, ultimately, you will feel better about yourself.

Visit Mandy’s Closet for more ideas on how to make life easier.

Don’t let your pride stand in your way. Take charge and work through the maze that is multiple sclerosis!

The Many Charms of a Folding Cane

Do yourself a big favor and purchase at least one folding cane. You can find them in many drug and health supply stores or purchase them on line. They are available at very reasonable prices and in a variety of styles and colors.

Lightweight and easy to fold within seconds to fit in a large purse or tote bag, this handy helper will earn its keep. Store one in your car, your spouse’s car, your place of business, your best friend’s house or wherever you might find yourself suddenly needing a little support. The cane will be there when you need it and easily stored away when you don’t.

When traveling by airplane, they can fit in the seat pocket or overhead bin quite easily. If you don’t need it on travel day, just tuck it away in your suitcase.

The first time I decided to purchase a cane, I was searching for something plain and inconspicuous until my husband said, “If you’re going to use a cane, USE A CANE!” He sure had the right idea. I now have a collection of canes in different colors and styles to suit my mood or outfit. They’ve actually turned out to be excellent conversation pieces when out in public. Sometimes I get just a glance, sometimes people ask me where I bought it. Sometimes they just ask me why I’m using a cane when I don’t seem to need one. That’s when I know it’s doing it’s job.