Eleanor Roosevelt said,

“If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor.” 

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

‘Silent Progression’

 

‘silent progression’ 

In 2019, Cree and colleagues proposed the term "silent progression"opens in a new tab or window to describe insidious accumulating disability independent of inflammatory activity in MS, based on data from the prospective UCSF EPICopens in a new tab or window cohort.

Neurodivergent

 

Neurodivergent - people whose brain differences affect how they process information, for instance ADHD.

ADHD can affect the brain's ability to plan, prioritise, focus and execute tasks. Key characteristics include inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Neurodivergent is a nonmedical term that describes people whose brains develop or work differently for some reason. This means the person has different strengths and struggles from people whose brains develop or work more typically. While some people who are neurodivergent have medical conditions, it also happens to people where a medical condition or diagnosis hasn’t been identified.

Robert Burns: Man Was Made To Mourn written in 1784

 

Man Was Made To Mourn

written in 1784

When chill November's surly blast 

Made fields and forests bare, 

One ev'ning, as I wander'd forth 

Along the banks of Ayr, 

I spied a man, whose aged step 

Seem'd weary, worn with care; 

His face was furrow'd o'er with years, 

And hoary was his hair. 

"Young stranger, whither wand'rest thou?" 

Began the rev'rend sage; 

"Does thirst of wealth thy step constrain, 

Or youthful pleasure's rage? 

Or haply, prest with cares and woes, 

Too soon thou hast began 

To wander forth, with me to mourn 

The miseries of man. 

"The sun that overhangs yon moors, 

Out-spreading far and wide, 

Where hundreds labour to support 

A haughty lordling's pride; - 

I've seen yon weary winter-sun 

Twice forty times return; 

And ev'ry time has added proofs, 

That man was made to mourn. 

"O man! while in thy early years, 

How prodigal of time! 

Mis-spending all thy precious hours- 

Thy glorious, youthful prime! 

Alternate follies take the sway; 

Licentious passions burn; 

Which tenfold force gives Nature's law. 

That man was made to mourn. 

"Look not alone on youthful prime, 

Or manhood's active might; 

Man then is useful to his kind, 

Supported in his right: 

But see him on the edge of life, 

With cares and sorrows worn; 

Then Age and Want - oh! ill-match'd pair - 

Shew man was made to mourn. 

"A few seem favourites of fate, 

In pleasure's lap carest; 

Yet, think not all the rich and great 

Are likewise truly blest: 

But oh! what crowds in ev'ry land, 

All wretched and forlorn, 

Thro' weary life this lesson learn, 

That man was made to mourn. 

"Many and sharp the num'rous ills 

Inwoven with our frame! 

More pointed still we make ourselves, 

Regret, remorse, and shame! 

And man, whose heav'n-erected face 

The smiles of love adorn, - 

Man's inhumanity to man 

Makes countless thousands mourn! 

"See yonder poor, o'erlabour'd wight, 

So abject, mean, and vile, 

Who begs a brother of the earth 

To give him leave to toil; 

And see his lordly fellow-worm 

The poor petition spurn, 

Unmindful, tho' a weeping wife 

And helpless offspring mourn. 

"If I'm design'd yon lordling's slave, 

By Nature's law design'd, 

Why was an independent wish 

E'er planted in my mind? 

If not, why am I subject to 

His cruelty, or scorn? 

Or why has man the will and pow'r 

To make his fellow mourn? 

"Yet, let not this too much, my son, 

Disturb thy youthful breast: 

This partial view of human-kind 

Is surely not the last! 

The poor, oppressed, honest man 

Had never, sure, been born, 

Had there not been some recompense 

To comfort those that mourn! 

"O Death! the poor man's dearest friend, 

The kindest and the best! 

Welcome the hour my aged limbs 

Are laid with thee at rest! 

The great, the wealthy fear thy blow 

From pomp and pleasure torn; 

But, oh! a blest relief for those 

That weary-laden mourn!"

Resilience

 

Resilience is the art of bouncing back, not as the person you were, but as someone stronger, wiser and more determined.  When life pushes you to your limits, it's a call to dig deeper, to find strength you didn't know you had.  Every fall is a chance to rise again, more powerful than before.

BE A WARRIOR!

  

“The only thing I know is this: I am full of wounds and still standing on my feet."

—Nikos Kazantzakis

“Sometimes, carrying on, just carrying on, is the superhuman achievement.”

— Albert Camus

Jelly Roll - I Am Not Okay (Official Lyric Video)

Jelly Roll - I Am Not Okay

https://youtu.be/Qop5XLgwkNc?si=JNOyeCMu4S3mpAPw

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope”. MLK.

 

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope”. MLK.

AI Perplexity describes Living Well with M.S.

 

I am writing a blog about living with multiple sclerosis. Give me a list of key facts and statistics I should include in the report.

When writing a blog about living with multiple sclerosis, it's important to include key facts and statistics to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition. Here are some essential facts and statistics to consider including in your report:

Prevalence: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a relatively common neurological condition, with an estimated 2.8 million people affected globally.

Onset and Diagnosis: MS is typically diagnosed in young adults, with the most common age of onset being between 20 and 40 years old. It is more prevalent in women than in men.

Symptoms: MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and cognitive changes.

Disease Course: MS can follow different disease courses, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS).

Treatment Options: There are various disease-modifying therapies available to help manage MS and reduce the frequency of relapses. These treatments aim to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Impact on Daily Life: MS can have a significant impact on daily life, including employment, relationships, and overall quality of life. It's important to address the challenges faced by individuals living with MS.

Research and Innovation: Ongoing research is being conducted to better understand MS and develop new treatment options. This includes studies on potential causes, risk factors, and novel therapies.

Support and Resources: It's crucial to highlight the importance of support networks and resources for individuals living with MS, including healthcare professionals, advocacy organizations, and community groups.

By incorporating these key facts and statistics into your blog, you can provide valuable information to your readers about the impact of MS and the resources available to support those affected by the condition.

 

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) can vary widely from person to person and over the course of the disease. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, typically occurring on one side of the body at a time.

Tingling or electric-shock sensations, especially when bending the neck forward (Lhermitte sign).

Lack of coordination, unsteady gait, or inability to walk.

Partial or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye at a time, often with pain during eye movement.

Prolonged double vision, blurry vision, or other vision problems.

Vertigo and problems with balance.

Muscle stiffness, spasms, and weakness.

Fatigue, which can be constant or brought on by physical activity.

Slurred speech and cognitive problems.

Mood disturbances, such as depression and anxiety.

Bowel and bladder problems.

Sexual dysfunction.

Difficulty with coordination and walking

 

It's important to note that not everyone with MS will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity and combination of symptoms can vary. If you suspect you may have early signs of MS, it's essential to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

what lifestyle changes can help manage multiple sclerosis symptoms

Lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. Here are some key changes that can help:

Healthy Diet: Eating nutritious foods can support overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can be beneficial

Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can help improve fitness, mobility, and mood. It's important to find an exercise routine that suits individual abilities and preferences

Cognitive Stimulation: Keeping the brain engaged through activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills may help manage cognitive symptoms associated with MS

Smoking Cessation: Studies have shown that quitting smoking can help improve a range of MS symptoms

.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Limiting alcohol intake is recommended, as excessive alcohol can interfere with medications and exacerbate certain MS symptoms

Stress Management: Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage the impact of stress on MS symptoms

 

Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and ensuring sufficient rest is important for overall health and managing fatigue associated with MS

 

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage symptoms such as bladder issues

 

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, individuals with MS may be better equipped to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

The recommended types of exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) include the following:

Cardio or Aerobic Exercise: Activities such as biking, walking, dancing, water aerobics, running, and swimming can help improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, bladder and bowel function, fatigue, mood, cognitive function, bone density, and flexibility

1

.

Strength Training: This can involve working major muscle groups in the lower body (quads, hamstrings, glutes) to improve or maintain strength with walking, standing, balance, and muscular endurance

1

.

Flexibility and Stretching: Stretching exercises can improve muscle tightness, spasticity, and range of motion. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes of upper and lower body stretching a day, with more attention on the muscles that spasm

2

.

Balance and Coordination Practice: Activities that focus on improving balance and coordination, such as yoga and tai chi, can be beneficial for individuals with MS

2

.

Functional Exercises: These include activities like walking lunges, step-ups, or stair-climbing, which can help improve everyday movements and mobility

2

.

It's important for individuals with MS to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to design an exercise program that suits their abilities and addresses their specific needs. Regular physical activity is helpful in managing many MS symptoms and promoting overall health and well-being

5

.

The frequency of exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) can vary, but the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that individuals living with MS get at least 150 minutes of exercise or lifestyle physical activity every week. This can be spread out across the week in a variety of ways, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week. If 30 minutes of continuous exercise is too much, shorter increments are just as beneficial. It's also important to incorporate a variety of exercises, including cardio or aerobic, strength, neuromotor, core, and flexibility exercises, into the routine

2

.

Additionally, the Cleveland Clinic suggests that each exercise session should last 10 to 15 minutes. It's recommended to begin at 70 percent of a 10 repetition maximum and increase the weight by 10 percent when the current weight can be performed for 25 repetitions for two consecutive sessions. Flexibility training should be performed daily for at least 10 to 15 minutes, and stretching exercises should be performed before and after all cardiovascular and strength training sessions

1

.

Ultimately, the frequency and type of exercise should be tailored to an individual's abilities and needs, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to design an exercise program that is safe and effective for managing MS symptoms.

Untitled

I am writing a blog about living with multiple sclerosis. Give me a list of key facts and statistics I should include in the report.

Answer

When writing a blog about living with multiple sclerosis, it's important to include key facts and statistics to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition. Here are some essential facts and statistics to consider including in your report:

Prevalence: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a relatively common neurological condition, with an estimated 2.8 million people affected globally.

Onset and Diagnosis: MS is typically diagnosed in young adults, with the most common age of onset being between 20 and 40 years old. It is more prevalent in women than in men.

Symptoms: MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and cognitive changes.

Disease Course: MS can follow different disease courses, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS).

Treatment Options: There are various disease-modifying therapies available to help manage MS and reduce the frequency of relapses. These treatments aim to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Impact on Daily Life: MS can have a significant impact on daily life, including employment, relationships, and overall quality of life. It's important to address the challenges faced by individuals living with MS.

Research and Innovation: Ongoing research is being conducted to better understand MS and develop new treatment options. This includes studies on potential causes, risk factors, and novel therapies.

Support and Resources: It's crucial to highlight the importance of support networks and resources for individuals living with MS, including healthcare professionals, advocacy organizations, and community groups.

By incorporating these key facts and statistics into your blog, you can provide valuable information to your readers about the impact of MS and the resources available to support those affected by the condition.

what are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis

Sources

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms/ favicon

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17248-multiple-sclerosis favicon

View 2 more

Answer

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) can vary widely from person to person and over the course of the disease. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, typically occurring on one side of the body at a time.

Tingling or electric-shock sensations, especially when bending the neck forward (Lhermitte sign).

Lack of coordination, unsteady gait, or inability to walk.

Partial or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye at a time, often with pain during eye movement.

Prolonged double vision, blurry vision, or other vision problems.

Vertigo and problems with balance.

Muscle stiffness, spasms, and weakness.

Fatigue, which can be constant or brought on by physical activity.

Slurred speech and cognitive problems.

Mood disturbances, such as depression and anxiety.

Bowel and bladder problems.

Sexual dysfunction.

Difficulty with coordination and walking

1

2

4

.

It's important to note that not everyone with MS will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity and combination of symptoms can vary. If you suspect you may have early signs of MS, it's essential to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis

4

.

what lifestyle changes can help manage multiple sclerosis symptoms

Sources

https://mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/lifestyle-choices favicon

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17248-multiple-sclerosis favicon

View 2 more

Answer

Lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. Here are some key changes that can help:

Healthy Diet: Eating nutritious foods can support overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can be beneficial

1

.

Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can help improve fitness, mobility, and mood. It's important to find an exercise routine that suits individual abilities and preferences

1

.

Cognitive Stimulation: Keeping the brain engaged through activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills may help manage cognitive symptoms associated with MS

1

.

Smoking Cessation: Studies have shown that quitting smoking can help improve a range of MS symptoms

2

.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Limiting alcohol intake is recommended, as excessive alcohol can interfere with medications and exacerbate certain MS symptoms

3

.

Stress Management: Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage the impact of stress on MS symptoms

3

.

Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and ensuring sufficient rest is important for overall health and managing fatigue associated with MS

3

.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage symptoms such as bladder issues

4

.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, individuals with MS may be better equipped to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

what types of exercise are recommended for people with multiple sclerosis

Sources

https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/everyday-living/staying-active/simple-exercises-for-ms favicon

https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Living-Well-With-MS/Diet-Exercise-Healthy-Behaviors/Exercise favicon

View 2 more

Answer

The recommended types of exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) include the following:

Cardio or Aerobic Exercise: Activities such as biking, walking, dancing, water aerobics, running, and swimming can help improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, bladder and bowel function, fatigue, mood, cognitive function, bone density, and flexibility

1

.

Strength Training: This can involve working major muscle groups in the lower body (quads, hamstrings, glutes) to improve or maintain strength with walking, standing, balance, and muscular endurance

1

.

Flexibility and Stretching: Stretching exercises can improve muscle tightness, spasticity, and range of motion. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes of upper and lower body stretching a day, with more attention on the muscles that spasm

2

.

Balance and Coordination Practice: Activities that focus on improving balance and coordination, such as yoga and tai chi, can be beneficial for individuals with MS

2

.

Functional Exercises: These include activities like walking lunges, step-ups, or stair-climbing, which can help improve everyday movements and mobility

2

.

It's important for individuals with MS to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to design an exercise program that suits their abilities and addresses their specific needs. Regular physical activity is helpful in managing many MS symptoms and promoting overall health and well-being

5

.

how often should people with multiple sclerosis exercise

Sources

https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ss/slideshow-best-exercise-for-ms favicon

https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/everyday-living/staying-active/simple-exercises-for-ms favicon

View 2 more

Answer

The frequency of exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) can vary, but the National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that individuals living with MS get at least 150 minutes of exercise or lifestyle physical activity every week. This can be spread out across the week in a variety of ways, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week. If 30 minutes of continuous exercise is too much, shorter increments are just as beneficial. It's also important to incorporate a variety of exercises, including cardio or aerobic, strength, neuromotor, core, and flexibility exercises, into the routine

2

.

Additionally, the Cleveland Clinic suggests that each exercise session should last 10 to 15 minutes. It's recommended to begin at 70 percent of a 10 repetition maximum and increase the weight by 10 percent when the current weight can be performed for 25 repetitions for two consecutive sessions. Flexibility training should be performed daily for at least 10 to 15 minutes, and stretching exercises should be performed before and after all cardiovascular and strength training sessions

1

.

Ultimately, the frequency and type of exercise should be tailored to an individual's abilities and needs, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to design an exercise program that is safe and effective for managing MS symptoms.

are there any specific exercises that can help with balance and mobility in people with multiple sclerosis

Sources

https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ss/slideshow-best-exercise-for-ms favicon

https://www.everydayhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis/living-with/best-exercises-boost-wellness-with-multiple-sclerosis/ favicon

Specific exercises that can help with balance and mobility in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) include the following:

Balance Exercises: Balance exercises are beneficial for individuals with MS. These may include activities such as standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walk, and yoga or tai chi, which focus on improving balance and coordination

1

3

.

Stability Training: Stability training has been shown to have a small but statistically significant effect on improving stability and reducing the risk of falling in individuals with MS. This can include exercises to improve stability and balance, such as those assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS)

2

.

Flexibility and Stretching: Flexibility exercises, such as stretching the muscles, may help diminish spasticity and prevent painful contractions. Stretching exercises should be performed daily for at least 10 to 15 minutes, with a focus on the muscles that spasm

2

.

Strength Training: While not directly related to balance, strength training can help improve overall mobility and reduce the risk of falls by enhancing muscle strength and endurance

4

.

Functional Exercises: Activities that focus on improving everyday movements, such as walking lunges, step-ups, or stair-climbing, can also contribute to better balance and mobility

2

4

.

It's important for individuals with MS to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to design an exercise program that includes these specific exercises to improve balance and mobility while addressing their individual needs and abilities.

Source: https://www.perplexity.ai/search/I-am-writing-.kLNIY9pTteEHMwqLNf8Hg?s=u

Kubla Khan By Samuel Taylor Coleridge

 

Kubla Khan

BY SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE

Or, a vision in a dream. A Fragment.

In Xanadu did Kubla Khan

A stately pleasure-dome decree:

Where Alph, the sacred river, ran

Through caverns measureless to man

   Down to a sunless sea.

So twice five miles of fertile ground

With walls and towers were girdled round;

And there were gardens bright with sinuous rills,

Where blossomed many an incense-bearing tree;

And here were forests ancient as the hills,

Enfolding sunny spots of greenery.

But oh! that deep romantic chasm which slanted

Down the green hill athwart a cedarn cover!

A savage place! as holy and enchanted

As e’er beneath a waning moon was haunted

By woman wailing for her demon-lover!

And from this chasm, with ceaseless turmoil seething,

As if this earth in fast thick pants were breathing,

A mighty fountain momently was forced:

Amid whose swift half-intermitted burst

Huge fragments vaulted like rebounding hail,

Or chaffy grain beneath the thresher’s flail:

And mid these dancing rocks at once and ever

It flung up momently the sacred river.

Five miles meandering with a mazy motion

Through wood and dale the sacred river ran,

Then reached the caverns measureless to man,

And sank in tumult to a lifeless ocean;

And ’mid this tumult Kubla heard from far

Ancestral voices prophesying war!

   The shadow of the dome of pleasure

   Floated midway on the waves;

   Where was heard the mingled measure

   From the fountain and the caves.

It was a miracle of rare device,

A sunny pleasure-dome with caves of ice!

   A damsel with a dulcimer

   In a vision once I saw:

   It was an Abyssinian maid

   And on her dulcimer she played,

   Singing of Mount Abora.

   Could I revive within me

   Her symphony and song,

   To such a deep delight ’twould win me,

That with music loud and long,

I would build that dome in air,

That sunny dome! those caves of ice!

And all who heard should see them there,

And all should cry, Beware! Beware!

His flashing eyes, his floating hair!

Weave a circle round him thrice,

And close your eyes with holy dread

For he on honey-dew hath fed,

And drunk the milk of Paradise.

Source: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43991/kubla-khan

Charley Munger

 

Know the edge of your own competency.  Humility.

Common Sense 

Inversion to help solve problems.