MS Maze

A cane is nothing more than a mobility aid, right? Well, maybe, but if you’ve got style and personality, why not show it off?

Walking canes and walking sticks can be so much more than mobility aids — the right ones can also be fashionable accessories for the men and for the ladies.

For example, check out the Genuine Zebrano adjustable folding cane. This sleek number is all about attitude and style. The wooden Zebrano handle and sassy pattern add a touch of flair to this adjustable walking cane. As practical as it is gorgeous, this beauty is height-adjustable and folds up for easy storage when not in use.

Or how about a sleek folding adjustable cane? The Chrome-plated derby-handled aluminum walking cane not only provides sturdy support, but the look is one of pure sophistication, smacking of inner confidence.

If, when you think about canes, you still automatically conjure up an image of those clunking metal canes that one might find in a hospital or nursing home, it’s time to reconsider all previous notions about canes and get with the program.

Dull and drab is out — personal style is in. With so many materials, colors, and patterns to choose from, there’s no excuse not to own a cane that suits your individual taste.

Need a walking cane? Get one that cops an attitude!

Browse through the Fashionable Canes and Walking Sticks website and become a fan on Facebook.

Read about my first cane with attitude: “If you going to use a cane, use a CANE!”

Disclosure: This is a compensated post, but I am also a satisfied customer of Fashionable Walking Canes and Walking Sticks.

Sometimes the positive attitude patrol functions as a guilt trip in disguise. Are they really promoting a positive attitude in the best interest of someone else… or is it a lopsided attempt to protect themselves from having to deal with someone else’s disease or disability?

Keep up the positive attitude because I can’t deal with your problems.

Do people with health concerns have a responsibility to people around them… to protect them from dealing with the uncomfortable?

Read this post in its entirety and vote in our poll:

When Positive Attitude Goes Negative

Photo Credit: http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1108245

“If you’re going to use a cane, use a CANE!” I heeded that advice and never regretted it.

I was in my early 40s and my multiple sclerosis was as yet undiagnosed, but walking was becoming a problem, especially in public settings. My awkward gait and lack of confidence made me feel rather conspicuous, but I was not thrilled about the prospect of using a cane at my age.

We’d picked up a cheap metal cane at a drugstore for a trial run, soon realizing that I would actually look and feel more confident and natural with a cane than without. But that cheap metal cane was not exactly the image I wanted to project.

So the online search for a more presentable cane began. Still somewhat self-conscious about the prospect, I sought out canes that would blend into the scenery. I thought that my cane should be useful, but not particularly noticeable. I wanted a boring, fade-into-the-background look.

That’s when my husband stepped in. “You’re looking at this thing all wrong. If you’re going to use a cane, use a CANE! Don’t be embarrassed by it… make a statement with it. Own it.” Wise man, my husband.

That’s how I ended up at a website called Fashionable Walking Canes. The assortment of walking canes and walking sticks for men and women evoke the style of a bygone era, the cane not only a mobility aid, but a fashion statement.

My search for the perfect ladies’ cane ended when I spotted a red paisley adjustable folding cane. That’s right — red paisley. I knew I could forget about fading into the background with that one, but like the man said, “get a CANE!”

That cane is still my favorite, although I’ve since added others to my collection. And I do get noticed — not because poor pitiful me has to use a cane, but because people stop to compliment me and want to know where they can get one.

Visit the Fashionable Walking Canes website: www.fashionablecanes.com or on Facebook.

Disclosure: This is a compensated post — but a 100 percent true story.

The leaves have fallen, the air is cool and crisp, and the clocks have been turned back an hour, signaling the beginning of the holiday season.

Thanksgiving celebrations are supposed to be a time of sharing bounty with family and friends. For people who live with chronic illness like multiple sclerosis, anticipation of Thanksgiving dinner can also be a time of increased emotional stress, exhaustion, and physical strain. We may want to celebrate, but chronic illness never takes a holiday.

Whether you are hosting the festivities for yourself or are simply an invited guest, planning ahead can make all the difference in the world.

Read this post in its entirety:

Surviving Thanksgiving with Multiple Sclerosis

Photo credit: Webcamp One LLC

“You have multiple sclerosis.”

Hearing those words may be the shock of a lifetime, or the confirmation of something you’ve long suspected. Either way, nobody wants to hear it. In my case, the official diagnosis came by email — but that’s another story.

Diagnosing MS is not a simple task — there is no specific test, but rather a series of diagnostic procedures, clinical history, and the painstaking elimination of other diseases. The actual diagnosis is often a major relief. But now that you know, what are you going to do about it?

Fighting Words: “You Have Multiple Sclerosis”

One of the most universally recognized symbols is that of the handicapped parking space. We all recognize the blue wheelchair and what it means… but not all handicapped people use wheelchairs.

There’s nothing quite so irritating as watching a perfectly healthy-looking person step out from a handicapped parking space and stroll into the store. But things are not always as they seem.

People with multiple sclerosis often appear healthy and strong even though they have difficulty walking for any length of time. Problems with fatigue, stamina, balance, and coordination can interfere with daily activities, but there are tools at our disposal that can make normal daily errands much easier. One of those is the handicapped parking placard.

Read this post in its entirety:

Handicapped Parking: A Guilt-Free Zone

Summer is in full swing, and along with it comes backyard barbecues, outdoor recreation, and long sunny days.

The joys of summer are many, but for some people with multiple sclerosis, summer’s heat and humidity can make it even more difficult for already damaged nerve fibers to transmit electrical impulses, resulting in an exaggeration of symptoms, which may include fatigue, dizziness, and extreme weakness.

This kind of temporary flare-up of symptoms is called a pseudo exacerbation because, although the symptoms are uncomfortable and frightening, there is no true neurological damage taking place.

Read this post in its entirety at Care2.com’s Healthy and Green Living: 

Staying Cool with M.S.

In addition to contributing to Care2.com’s Reform Health Policy blog, I’m pleased to be joining Care2′s Healthy and Green Living section.

My first article is live and I invite you to visit me and the good folks of Care2, where conversation is never lacking.

It may seem so at first, but a life with MS is not necessarily a life out-of-control. As unpredictable and as debilitating as MS can be, there are some very basic things you can do to take control over this unwelcome intruder in your life.

Read this post in its entirety at Care2.com’s Healthy and Green Living:

Living with Multiple Sclerosis: 5 Steps Toward Empowerment

If your doctor suspects that you have multiple sclerosis, but you haven’t yet been diagnosed, chances are you’ll be taking an EMG test.

EMG stands for electromyogram. The purpose of the EMG is to assess the health of muscles by measuring their response to stimulation. This can help doctors in diagnosing multiple sclerosis and other conditions when a patient has unexplained muscle weakness.

If you’ve ever heard anyone describe an EMG test in detail, you might wonder if it’s a modern day torture device and be tempted to run for the hills. Well, you can relax. While far from a pleasant experience, it’s not something you need to fear.

View the Educational video explaining the EMG test

Read this post in its entirety:

Diagnosing MS: The EMG Test

“You have multiple sclerosis.”

You’ve heard those words and now it’s time to decide what you’re going to do about it. There is no obvious right or wrong that applies to all MS patients. It’s not going to be that easy.

In my last post, Early Intervention in Multiple Sclerosis: Knowledge is Power, I spoke about self-education and research as the first items on the “to do” list, whether you’ve been definitively diagnosed or just suspect MS. Along with that, it is important to establish a relationship with a neurologist. Your doctor will inform you of your options and may make suggestions based on your individual symptoms.

One of the first questions that comes to mind is, “what is my prognosis?”

Read this post in its entirety:

You Have MS, now what are you going to do about it?

What a weekend! We went skiing, bowling, tightrope walking… we laughed ourselves silly with the hoola hoop and step aerobics… and we’re looking forward to doing it all again tomorrow.

I can’t do any of those things, at least not in real life. It’s all part of our continuing slide into virtual reality, aided by Wii. Multiple sclerosis leaves me unable to participate in physical activities in the way most adults can, but it’s still important that I exercise as often as possible. Wii Sports and Wii Fit have provided me with an opportunity to get back in the game.

It’s not only helping to stretch and work muscles, it’s doing wonders for my frame of mind. I can’t classify myself as an athlete, but it’s as close as I’ll ever get.

A tip for MSers: If at all possible, invest in a Wii.

In case you were wondering, this is not a paid endorsement.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

(This item was originally posted on MS Maze in December 2007)

Wheeee!!!!

I know this might seem a bit childish, but while Mandy and I were out of town visiting family over the long Thanksgiving weekend, I discovered something that a good portion of the game playing public already knows. I was introduced to Wii, a game machine by Nintendo that has apparently captivated gamers and non-gamers alike and that has been making tremendous inroads into the adult market.

While Wii-’bowling’ with my niece, it occurred to me that this simple game might be able to help my wife, who suffers from relapsing-remitting MS, get a little exercise in order to keep her muscles toned. My suspicions were confirmed as I watched Mandy Wii-’box’ with an opponent, her arms thrashing wildly as she worked feverishly to pummel her Wii-generated opponent.

Read: Wheeee!!!! by Jake Crest

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.