THIS PAST YEAR2024

So much has happened this year with my health being at the forefront that I haven't added to the blog. Now that I have my diagnosis I can bullet point the happenings of the past 12 months.

I had been feeling more unwell than usual so it was the start of a long journey to get referred to a neurologist because of my symptoms,
Meanwhile I felt whatever this was, was not going to go away so I had to do something ‘definite’ for the future.
I applied to University of Highlands and Islands for 2nd year entry to a Fine Art Degree and after putting together an online portfolio and having an interview, I got a place.
In the middle of the year I had my workshop down in Glasgow and later a family get together in Stirling.
By July I had my Neurologist appointment and referred for an MRI which I got at the end of August
Uni started in September and I was away - modules, sketchbooks, readings, lectures.
All the while in lots of pain but it was great to have a focus and a purpose for my creativity
Online Neurosurgeon appointment in October and the results of my MRI. Cervical Canal Stenosis at C3 - C6 which is a degenerative condition, explains all my symptoms. There is a possibility of surgery but the risks outway the benefits so I have to accept the diagnosis and find ways to manage my symptoms and pain.
End of first Semester in December and essays and hand ins complete. Decision to not have surgery made and looking at things to help getting around, like a mobility scooter or chair. I’ve hired one for the week of Christmas to try it out - broom broom, watch out!

All the way through this I have been supported by David and Star, my shining lights...........

Getting Settled In

March 30, 2022

We checked out of the Stromness Hotel and finally moved every last piece of our 'stuff' into the cottage. Boxes everywhere for a few days..................

Soon had the books (most important!) organised and looking more like ‘home’.

Then all the necessary boring bits like registering with a Doctor (who is lovely and a wild swimmer!), getting the Sky TV set up and finding out when the bin days are. Also found out that Tesco/Lidl/Co-op are a 4 minute drive from the house as is David’s work and the Doctor Surgery is 2 minutes down the hill based in the Balfour Hospital. Talking of hills, we woke up to snow today! :-)