Update
I moved into my new home November 1st, Saturday. It’s really nice, nice to have no steps and newer and cleaner. In ways I miss my old home, probably more so because of my pets. A friend actually stepped up and took my three outside dogs. She’s giving them a wonderful home and they are better off than they’ve been in a long time, perhaps ever. I still miss them and feel horrible giving them up in the last years of their lives.
I’m still settling in and I’m still trying to decide where I will go for Spinal Cord Rehabilitation. I need pain management (medicine), bowel function help, and physical therapy for balance and walking. I think I need something called an “EMG” where they assess which nerves are not functioning. I can go to KU rehabilitation which seems to have it all in one place and pretty complete, but I’m trying to stay away from there, as it’s so far away. There is a nurse that works there who is awesome. She’s the one who sent me the packet of information and I hear she’s helped a lot of people with spinal cord injuries.
It’s been stressful trying to find any other places. I wish I had someone close to bounce things off regarding where to go, but not so. I have great family and friends, but they’re not that closely involved in these kinds of matters. Oh, this is when you wish you had either a good hubby or a devoted daughter. They’re usually the people that assists an old lady like me in these things.
Anyhoo, I may just have to suck it up and go to KU. It wouldn’t be forever, though the doctor would be someone I would see semi-regularly. I need someone qualified to help in the pain management. Also, I can’t walk without a cane and preferrably a walker, so it would be nice to have someone assess my potential…realistically.
I’m gettinng there. I have some things to shore up regarding the move and other financial items. This will take time. I have decisions to make and things to do..slowly and hopefully surely.
Next oncologist appointment is December 2nd.
cakassel55
November 17th, 2008 at 10:07 am
Hi Cindy;
It is good to hear you are settling in at your new home. I understand the bittersweetness of the move.
I’m unsure exactly where you are located but any large rehab center should be experienced to assist you with your spinal cord issues. The Rehabilitation Institute of KC might be convenient. The most important thing, I think, is to KEEP MOVING! You should consider seeing an Oncologist who would consult with a Physiatrist for your pain management and assessment of your mobility potential.
Best Wishes.
December 3rd, 2008 at 8:23 pm
I, too am having problems with back pain and impaired function caused by my myeloma. I am looking for some orthopedic help now. Everyone seems more interested in stopping the cancer (so far, so good!) than helping me reduce my pain meds or prevent further vertebral deterioration. It sounds like I may be younger than you. I am 52 and can’t retire. Good luck! My thoughts and prayers are with you-
Pat
December 16th, 2008 at 3:00 am
You also have to go for your check up every after 6 months because you will be updated that whats happening in there and if you feel any kind or pain or thing like that, urgently consult to the doctor. Gook luck to you and have a healthy life.
January 1st, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Hope you’re feeling a bit better!Try a tens unit, they worked amazing for my back pain – really really effective pain relief.Try tensunit.com…i got mine from there and they were brill!
Good Luck!