I own a Hair Salon and Training Academy in Kent and was diagnosed with HM 9 months ago in September 2011 after a very long and worrying summer of being treated for a stroke, then told I had M.S. then Drs were unsure and thought I had a very rare condition where there was only one other case in the country.
My symptoms started after a major headache in July where I thought I was going to die, after suffering from migraines for the past 10 years this was totally different as the pain was in the back of my head.I recovered being left with symptoms of confusion and forgetfulness. 2 weeks later I was rushed to hospital with suspected stroke I lost the ability to walk and talk. I spent a week in Hospital where I had a CT scan, numerous blood tests and approx 8 unsuccessful attempts at a lumber punch. I was discharged from hospital the same as I went in with the information that I had not had a stroke. WHAT WAS IT I HAD WAS THE QUESTION !!!!!!!!!!!
I made an 80% recovery and thought it may be a viral thing but was rushed back into hospital 10 days later as I had collapsed like a rag doll at home.
After 8 more days in hospital and more tests and a successful lumber punch I was diagnosed after seeing a Neurologist 6 weeks ago as an outpatient as having HM my symptoms are full body paralysis and my auras are right sided weakness with slow slurred speech. My internal functions (bladder and bowels) are also affected in addition to the hot and cold moments.
I deal with the general public, heads of school and local authorities on a daily basis who either think I am drunk or stupid by the way I talk and I constantly have to explain that I am struggling with my speech at the moment. I also need the aid of a walking stick on occasions. The medication so far that I have tried had poisoned my body so am due to see my neurologist tomorrow for the next batch.
I rule my life not HM rule me I make the most of my good days and still guide to very successful business’ which we have just won The Best Training Provider Award in Medway and my company has only been going for 3 years. This is a dreadful illness we need to make people aware.
On a daily basis I struggle with speech and walking along with many other symptoms, I am losing faith with the medical world and beg for someone to help me.
I feel that there is not enough know about this dreadful condition and feel I need to let everyone know so we can help others, and reduce the number of suicides because of Hemiplegic Migraines.
MY GLASS IS ALWAYS HALF FULL but I do shed the odd tear.