-> I am vent dependant because of a very weakened ? paralyzed
-> diaphragm. Possibly related to taking steroids for my asthma.
-> Ironically I still need the steroids every day kind of like a catch
-> 22. Any one out there with a trach / vent dependant because of a
-> diaphragm problem? Anyone out there close to my age (I'll be 39 at
-> the end of this month). I'm discouraged that I'm too young to be in
-> this situation and on disability. I am a nurse...I'm used to caring
-> for other people... I don't like being on this side. I'm quite lonely
-> and depressed...could use some friends to talk to. Trach96 (AT)aol.com
Most of my breathing problems are related to my diaphragm being
weakened because of my SMA. I have also had a very large hiatal hernia
since age 12, which cannot be fixed surgically because of the atrophied
muscle tissue. So I think I can relate to that end of it.
I have been disabled since birth (1955) and I can only imagine
what it's like to acclamate to a new disability. Believe it or not,
it's just as difficult for those of us with life-long disabilities to
accept our situation. The circumstances may be different, but some of
the "baggage" is just as heavy. You are not alone.
Keep your chin up! One of the hardest parts of being disabled
is being to look at yourself and saying, "I am still just as good as
anyone else." Once you can say that, and mean it, you will be fine. It
doesn't come easy. I didn't reach the point where I could feel truly
equal until my late 30s. Now, I'm proud to be disabled. The day will
come when you will too. It takes time and patience.
Keep the faith, sister.
Blane