The Bionic Woman
Don't worry, I'm not about to launch a fan base for a 1980's sci-fi TV
programme. :-) I have been lucky enough to be able to use modern technology
to my advantage in several ways. The following is far from science fiction,
even though it might sound like it at times. It is all factual and
if you have any queries about it, please don't hesitate to ask me.
My Computer
After working with computers for many years, I felt lost without one when
I had to stop working. Initially I bought myself a second-hand IBM laptop
and began using e-mail to communicate with friends and family (see My E-mates).
Several months later I treated myself to a sexy Apple iMac which I now use
nearly every day. E-mail and the Internet are fantastic sources of information
and services and help me feel less isolated.
My Wheels
When I was first told I'd have to use a wheelchair, it was a bit of a shock.
Over the following months, when the only alternative was lying in bed all
day, I came to really appreciate it. Okay, so it's not always the most
dignified mode of transport, or the most attractive, but at least I can get
out of the house and enjoy life (as long as someone is willing to push me!).
I did purchase a mobility scooter in 2001 which helped give me a little more
independence, however, the winters in Northern Ireland can make this a little
impractical.
With the tremor in my left arm becoming more pronounced, I have found
it increasingly difficult to push my chair along myself. At my check-up
with the Neurologist in November 2001, I was presented with two suggestions
that may make this a little easier to live with. The first suggestion
was to apply for an electric wheelchair through my Occupational Therapist.
I did apply, was assessed and took delivery of it in September 2002.
Due to NHS policy and budgetary constraints, I have an indoor-only model which,
in time, will be made suitable for outdoor use. The second suggestion
was to take part in a new research project - explained in more detail below.
Transport
Getting out and about when you use a wheelchair can be difficult.
Public transport is not ideal so private means have to be found. I
did have my own car but when my eyesight deteriorated, I knew I had to sell
it. Initially I was able to transfer quite easily from my chair into
a car, but as my balance and leg spasms grew worse, this became more awkward
and painful. For a while I used the "wheelchair-friendly" taxis ...
they may be wheelchair-friendly, but they are definately not
wheelchair-user friendly. Even short trips became a trial!
The best solution seemed to be getting a vehicle of my own. After looking at the various possibilities I bought a second-hand camper van that my dad fitted out to take the wheelchair securely. This took me round Northern Ireland (and Scotland!) for nearly three years but the time came to move on.
Now that my health has improved so much, I have bought a car with a hoist fitted to lift me off my chair and into the passenger seat. I was unsure what kind of car to buy but after looking around I decided on a Ford Focus. I wasn't keen on Ford but Simon persuaded me to look at the Focus and I soon changed my mind - a fact he won't let me forget! :-) Having to rely on other people to drive me around can get very frustrating, especially after being so independent and mobile, but it beats sitting in the house all day! Also, as a passenger in a vehicle, I can appreciate the scenery so much more than when I was a driver.
My Left Arm
Yes, I know Christy Brown would probably have a fit if he read this, writing
never was my strong point! For over a year now I have had tremor in
my left arm that has left me unable to do most things except unwillingly thump
it off solid surfaces (with the bruises to prove it - ouch!). There
is no medication readily available that can combat this (so I am told) so
I jumped at the chance of taking part in a new research project being conducted
at Dublin City University. I was drawn to it initially because there
are no drugs involved but the more I have found out about it, the more interested
I have become.
I should stress here that this research is still in its infancy and I am (luckily) the "guinea pig". The information I am presenting here has been very kindly supplied by the researcher Geoff Walsh, who can explain it a lot better than I can. I will be putting regular progress updates on the site but, as with any research, these things take time ... please don't be expecting any short-term revelations!
I met with the research team in Feb 2002. The idea was explained to me and a rough timetable discussed. Geoff attached electrodes to my arm and, through a computer, was able to take readings of the tremor. A cast was also taken of my arm to enable the Orthotics specialist to make the brace that the electronics will be held to my arm by. The brace has now been made and fits perfectly.
Hopefully the team will get time in their lab in late 2002 to work on
the engineering part. I'll keep you posted ...
