Deep brain stimulation diary: Signing off - my last post
Kathy was
diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2001. In
February 2010 she underwent deep brain
stimulation (DBS), a form of surgery which can treat some of
the symptoms of Parkinson's.
Following the surgery Kathy began writing an online
diary of her experiences. This is her final post, as she prepares
to move into a new house and spend more time with her
family.
Previous - Deep brain stimulation diary:
Moving on
2 September 2010
Since my last diary entry I
have been back to King's College Hospital twice to have my voltage
increased, and on my left side it now stands at 3.2. Even this
slight increase helps the tremor to stay away a little
longer. I am gradually reducing my meds as I just don't need
them as regularly as I once did.
One downside is that on occasions when the tremor does get quite
bad, my muscles hurt more, probably because I am not used to the
constant rhythmic tightening and loosening of the muscles. But
hey, that does not happen very often and it's a small price to
pay.
I feel I am almost at the end of my visits to King's now. Was
this operation worth having done? Unreservedly I'd say YES it was.
It has totally changed my life. Even if my tremor is never
completely gone, the good times by far outweigh the bad.
If it all stopped working now, I would not hesitate to ask if I
could have this operation again. I can now be with people for
several hours and those that did not know, would not be aware that
I even have Parkinson's.
Looking ahead
If it all stopped working now, I would not hesitate to ask if I could have this operation again.
Our house move is fast approaching, probably in the next 2
weeks. We can't wait. This move will take a lot of the
pressure off my husband and I, and give us more time to be together
and enjoy this new lease of life that has come my way.
Our new grandson is due to be born in a couple of weeks too and
I hope both of these events don't happen at the same time! Without
the tremor interfering with our plans nearly so much, we are
proposing to enjoy the rest of our time together.
So, this will be the end of my deep brain stimulation dary and I
hope that my experiences have been of interest to those who have
read it.
Thank you for being there and for all the lovely comments of
encouragement that I have received.
Your comments
Kathy, your story is an inspiration to all sufferers of
Parkinson's. My dad is currently undergoing tests for DBS and all
going well will have his op early next year. Your story has given
me great hope and I can only hope his surgery is as successful as
yours has been!
Aisling, Enniskillen
A very brave woman. Not only for undergoing the operation, but
for keeping us all informed of her thoughts and feelings. Please
keep updating us on your condition, if only once a year. I am sure
that your notes provide inspiration and hope to others.
David, Nottingham
These diaries have given me hope for the future and after
reading Kathy's diary, I will not hesitate to have the operation if
offered.
Lee, Newcastle upon Tyne
I am pleased for Kathy. I have had the DBS op. I would like to
know how much L-DOPA Kathy was taking before the op and how much
she takes now. Is Kathy taking anything else to help her
Parkinson's?
John, Southport
I love your motivation and drive for life. Parkinson's takes
over your life sometimes, you have proved there is a life with
Parkinson's. Much love.
Gary, Dundee
Hi Kathy, I hope by now you will have settled in your new home
and able to hold your grandson too. Thank you so much for your
diary. My husband has just been referred for DBS asessment so we
have a long road ahead of us next year and beyond. Take care.
Mina, Milton Keynes
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