Tag Memory loss

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AWARENESS MONTH

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Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month during March encourages support for the nearly 400,000 people diagnosed in the United States with this unpredictable disorder.

While not contagious, it can be devastating if untreated and challenging to diagnose. Symptoms often develop over time. Many times, physicians rule out other conditions before making a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

It is a disease of the central nervous system, affecting the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Each day, those living with multiple sclerosis do everything they can to push forward. Despite all the challenges they face, they persevere and often, with treatment, you and I wouldn’t know the struggles they overcome.

Common signs of the disease include trouble walking, difficulty maintaining balance, fatigue, numbness or tingling, and vision problems. These symptoms can vary widely depending on which nerves are affected and the level of damage to the nerves.

“Multiple sclerosis may be a part of who you are, but it doesn’t define you as a person. You are who you are, and MS can’t take that away from you.” -Clarissa, diagnosed in 2006

MS destroys the myelin surrounding the nerves and over time results in reduced communication between the nerves and the brain.  Symptoms include visual issues, difficulty with balance and coordination which ultimately limits mobility and overwhelming fatigue.

HISTORY

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America sponsors Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month along with many other programs.

“Even when we’re in periods of remission, we are struggling psychologically on a daily basis.” -Meagan Freeman, family nurse practitioner

HOW TO OBSERVE

Learn more about multiple sclerosis and its symptoms. Visit www.mymsaa.org to find out how to provide support to a loved one or a friend who has MS.   Use #MultipleSclerosisAwarenessMonth to share on social media. Reach out to someone you know who has multiple sclerosis. Talk openly with them about it to learn more. While it may be a tad uncomfortable at first, they will be glad you wanted to learn more.

Messy Bun Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Mom MS Warrior Mother T-Shirt#MultipleSclerosisAwarenessMonth
Messy Bun Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Mom MS Warrior Mother T-Shirt
Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month In March We Wear Orange T-Shirt#MultipleSclerosisAwarenessMonth
Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month In March We Wear Orange T-Shirt
Ms Warrior Heart Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month T-Shirt #MultipleSclerosisAwarenessMonth
Ms Warrior Heart Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month T-Shirt
Microwave Safe Therapy Mittens with Flax Seeds - Moist Heat Therapy Relief for Hands and Fingers for Stiff Joints, Trigger Fingers, Inflammation, Raynauds, Carpal Tunnel, Natural Aromatherapy Gloves #MultipleSclerosisAwarenessMonth
Microwave Safe Therapy Mittens with Flax Seeds – Moist Heat Therapy Relief for Hands and Fingers for Stiff Joints, Trigger Fingers, Inflammation, Raynauds, Carpal Tunnel, Natural Aromatherapy Gloves

NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVERS MONTH

Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

National Family Caregivers Month in November recognizes the dedication of family members who provide round the clock care to loved ones. When medical conditions demand attention, family step into roles, they are often unprepared to accept. They become caregivers instead of partners or friends. Sometimes this change occurs in an instant.

The month sheds light into their demanding days, but it also identifies their needs. From morning to night, a caregiver balances the needs of the patient and their family. They also see to financial matters and the household necessities.

Caregivers rarely have time for themselves. There’s always another thing to be done. However, a caregiver requires rest, too.

After an aneurysm with complications has left me unable to walk, my family has stepped up.  My husband Scott and my mother help me with daily tasks that allow me to live in our home.  Everything from meals, cleaning, baths and personal care allow me to continue living in a safe environment without the drawbacks of facilities.  I can never express enough gratitude for the care and help I get everyday.  

I get so much better care from one or two people than shifts of 12 to 20 in a facility including hospitals.  Today there are programs that support family Caregivers with resources, supplies and even compensation for the hour devoted to it. 

HISTORY

In 1997, President Clinton proclaimed November to be National Family Caregivers Month for the first time.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE

During November, consider providing a respite for someone you know who provides care for a loved one. Offer to spend time with them or to learn to help out. Ask what you can do to make a difference. Visit npaonline.org for more information. Use #FamilyCaregiversMonth to post on social media.