Victories

Hi @jeep - Many of us with neuropathy have shared our story and what helps us in the following discussion that you might find helpful --- Member Neuropathy Journey Stories: What's Yours?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/member-neuoropathy-journey-stories-whats-yours/

I've gotten away from this board, but finally found the lamp post to guide me back! 🙂 I've had several days without severe-level pains in my body; able to play my organ and function without feeling down. Also, probably the biggest victory I've had lately is an enormous lesson in humility - I was able to talk about my health concerns to a confident/partner at work, who was able to extend grace to me and offer to step in to help as I need it. I'm so thankful for the opportunity of authenticity, transparency and honesty; especially, in the workplace. My pain has allowed others to be encouraged and inspired, and at the end of the day - just reaching one person is totally WORTH it. #slaythepain #joythrustruggles #alwayslookingforrainbows

I am thinking of you all today, wishing the best and loveliest of days! 🙂 #warriorsinmybook

@rivermaya34 and all - I love this thread! Not sure how I missed it, but it deserves to be revisited.

My victories are simply living each day as it comes. Getting through the next 5 minutes and appreciating small wins allow for more attainable goals. Noting gratitude each morning even when I'm struggling, then balancing out the day with a planned attack helps. Scheduling has been helpful in holding myself accountable in the areas of self-care, physical activity, rest, socialization, distraction, meals, chores. Learning flexibility has been important because each day may vary and its important to remember to allow ourselves grace.

Small victories = a dose of dopamine. Here's some nice, natural drugs to help achieve those small victories. Win the day!

How have you won the day during the hustle and bustle of the holidays?

My most recent victory is that after being in a wheelchair since 2014, two weeks ago I started walking with a walker. Also, I consider ditching my former PCP and gastroenterologist for new ones to have been a major victory this year. They're both wonderful, listen to me, willing to try new things.

We are all dealing with the struggles associated with neuropathy but one thing I do know, there are one heck of a lot more things out there that can be worse. Four years ago, an employee of ours who was a great person to work with developed ALS and was gone in less than 15 months. I then realized that my PN was minor compared to his illness. It opened my eyes on how lucky I am and despite the PN that I deal with day in and day out. I learned from him to remain positive despite illness and appreciate what we do have. It works for me.

Congratulations @cookierockwell! Very impressive. You knocked my socks off with that BIG victory.

May I ask how you graduated to a walker from a wheelchair? It must have taken hard work. Good for you!

Finding the right doctors can make all the difference. Way to advocate for yourself in doing so. Do you have more plans towards achieving small victories in 2023?

@njed That is a humbling perspective. One that we all need to be reminded of now and again. Thank you for sharing, NJ Ed, it works for me as well.

I just got rid of my walker, it was wonderful. I’m still trying to keep my balance in check but walking with crutches instead. Big victory for me, hopefully you will be there soon as well! Good for you!!!

Wow. Thank you for sharing this. I sometimes need to be reminded that I do have good days, times when I don't even realize that my neuropathy is bothering me. I go on my day and accomplish most of my plans. Each day I am grateful for all that I have, my friends, my cats, my home and my overall general good health. I, too, have learned to take time, turn off the noise and be still and quiet. Learning to meditate was hard for me but I found there are many ways to meditate. Just find your own.
My victory is not letting neuropathy be the only thing in my life.

2022 has been a tough year for me physically. This year a neurologist told me I had PN after an EMG test, then I had back surgery and in the last six months I've had three heart procedures.

But now, my back is great, my heart is much better and because of this group my PN is much better.
From this group, John in particular, I learned about taking R-ALA, which has diminished the pain I was starting to get in my feet. And yesterday I starting taking all the ingredients of the Protocol. No doubt 2023 will be a better year!

And like others have mentioned, so many are much worse off than I am. When I start complaining about numbness in my feet and hands, I stop and think about how much worse it could be.

I thank God that he led me to this group. And I pray that others who are struggling with PN will find help here also!

Thank you to all the Volunteer Mentors and have a Happy Holiday season!