"I now have a confident voice"

Following an MS relapse I was in a desperately dark place. I was experiencing choking episodes, communication difficulties, memory blocks with reading problems and was unable to retain information. I was losing my independence and confidence. I was becoming isolated and withdrawn. I was fearful of the future.

I was terrified. I couldn't hold a normal conversation nor remember appointments. The choking episodes were frequent and very alarming. Writing lists of things I had to do was my method of coping. This was no longer working as I wasn't able to retain nor sometimes understand the lists. I live alone and was out of ideas how I was going to be able to cope with a normal independent life.

Elizabeth came with a rescue plan. Thankfully I was able to have home visits. I wouldn't have been able to access the help otherwise. She taught me how to prevent choking on food and drink with a chin tuck. I no longer have choking episodes bar when I'm asleep. 

Shen then taught me over the next 6 weeks how I am now able to speak in full sentences.  She gave me a visualisation technique which I use to remember and retain information. I practice this technique constantly throughout the day. And it works. I can access my memory again. I can retain information again. I doubted any of this was even possible. 

Having someone who was patient, kind and knowledgeable played a massive part in where I am today - independent and no longer afraid of the future. I owe her my deepest and warmest thanks. I couldn't have done it on my own. I'd say to anyone who finds a decline in their speech and language to access this service and practice every day, throughout the day what they are taught. I now have a confident voice and a potentially fulfilling future.