Life with Neuropathy

Happy New Year 2024! Hi, my name is John. A nd I have CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy ). When you have CIDP you must often  figure out different pathways to accomplish your goals. And sometimes you have to change those goals -- and pathways -- a lot or a little. Maybe even daily. I used to love playing the piano, but sitting too long is literally a pain in the rump. Sorry for being so blunt. But it's not comfortable to sit for a long time on a hard seat. Especially when my tangled nerves and stiff joint are constantly shouting at each other.     It's so relaxing to play old favorites once in a while. Especially Christmas classics during that special season. But how could I reach this goal of having a little extra comfort and support? What options did I have? And then it hit me.  I could try using an office chair instead of a low piano bench. Something with far more padding and arms, too. And the height was adjustable too. Such an obvious solution and yet

                                 Some call it Turkey Day because of the prominent position played by this succulent juicy bird. Others are thankful for the cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade cranberry jelly, fresh rolls, and green bean casserole. But Thanksgiving is more than fabulous filling food.  Thanksgiving (and EVERY single other day!) is a time to give thanks and show gratitude to the many people who serve as our caregivers. Day in and day out...24-7...and definitely not just on holidays they are there for us. Truly. Even on our most difficult days. They see us when the pain is overwhelming. When we seem to have forgotten how to smile. When hope seems to hide.   And yet they are always there to listen, to help, to encourage and to love us. To simply be present in our anguish, disappointment and hurt. For me, my wife is my pillar, my guide, my dearest friend.  She is the best example I know of someone who comes to the rescue even when she doesn't know ex

My name is John and I have peripheral neuropathy. I drop at least one of my many pills every day. Not sure exactly why, but it happens. All the time now. And then I struggle to pick up what is far below me on the ground. With my joint issues, bending my knees and getting down to the floor is tough some days and impossible on others.  My mobility isn't what it used to be. Read more here .  I've spilled lots of things and have gotten to the point of expecting it to happen. Although I never want to make a mess. Still, I sometimes do. But on the plus side, if I drop something early in the day maybe I can go for a few hours without dropping anything else. Not particularly logical, but then neither is neuropathy.  Besides pills, I've dropped spinach leaves, baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, more pills, the lids to pills, crumbs, chocolate chips, tangerine peels, water and other liquids, potato chips, cashews, almonds, soap, my comb, my phone, my keys and more. It's always someth