"I really can't thank my OT enough"

Learning to come to terms with a new reality following diagnosis of Chronic fatigue syndrome and Fibromyalgia. Following the recent passing of both my parents who I lived with and cared for until their passing at home during my illness.

This impacted greatly on my work life. resulting in me having to give up my job whilst ill and under investigation myself in 2020. 

I live with chronic pain, muscle cramps and spasms, joint pain, fatigue on a daily basis with unrefreshed sleep amongst other problems such as Obstructive sleep apnoea and asthma.

I felt ashamed that I couldn't just get up and get on with things like I used to and found my dishes and washings piling up along with household chores.  I felt a burden to my partner and was unable to go out into a shop without having to sit down due to nerve pain in my legs. My balance was also affected and I'd started walking with a walking stick but found I would catch the edge of it and it would go away from me. I found getting up from a seat my legs wouldn't work after sitting a while. I fell and tripped often and found negotiating stairs more difficult. I often fell asleep while out for dinner with my partner.  

I asked for OT input from my doctor. Within a couple of weeks I had been assigned Suzie where she requested an urgent referral for the walking clinic who gave me a rollator to allow me to confidently go out and have a seat with me always, they also referred me for a strength and balance class and gave me a better thicker walking stick. 

My OT referred me to Morphitchair exercis. I was anxious that I was gaining weight despite my best efforts at slimming world and exercise causing further pain. This class has definitely helped my strength and weight loss journey. I am now doing a further circuit class weekly now and have made lots of new friends. 

Suze helped me to transfer easier out of my car using a car handle I purchased from Amazon. 

I struggled getting in and out of the bath so I had to invest in a walk in shower and my OT assessed me using my new shower to help with grab rails and a seat I purchased from Amazon. 

I found it particularly helpful that I could meet my OT in my own house and learning about pacing and how to manage energy levels. I also wasn't aware that there are different types of energy such as emotional and physical. I also feel I have better control of my life and energy meaning I no longer beat myself up if I need to lie down and sleep or just rest.  I am beginning to come to terms with my new reality. 

Lastly my OT also has referred me to a link worker so I can engage in art therapy and craft classes. 

I really can't thank my OT enough, she has given me a positive outlook in the last 6 months working with her.