"The path of my illness."

In September 2023 I experienced a TIA followed by apparently minor cumulative strokes in November and December. I was cared for in the Stroke Ward of the UHD. I suffered significant mobility issues and loss of most of my eyesight. A fall in December which resulted in a fracture of my L2 didn’t help. Diagnosis proved elusive until a brain biopsy in the RVH identified my problem as being intravascular lymphoma of the CNS. On being transferred back to the UHD, under the care of Dr Sharma, I commenced a five month course of chemo which ended in late June 2024. I tolerated the chemo quite well. Post treatment scan results of August 2024 showed no measurable disease and a complete metabolic response. 

Altogether I was away from home for 2 months in hospital and then 6 weeks in an interim rehab placement. The care that I received during this lengthy period for so many and such a variety of healthcare professionals was simply tremendous. They were so supportive even at times when their patience must have been tested. My rehab began in earnest in February and again I cannot speak too highly of the support and hard work of the SE and the Belfast Stroke Teams in getting me back onto my feet. I have progressed to walking with a stick, have been back in the pool, re-joined a Pilates class and am going on holiday in September. In addition my eyesight has improved. The journey continues, with the ongoing help of my family, as I tackle further goals to maximise the new norm.