[Previous entry: "Longevity Part 2"] [Next entry: "Spiders and Doctors and Bi-PAPS - OH My!"]

05/26/2007: "My Day Out"

I know that I haven't posted lately to the blog and it definetly isn't due to lack of topics or desire. It just seems that my brain isn't cooperating lately and I don't know if it is due to medications or the cognitive changes in ALS patients that has been getting alot of attention lately. I don't think it is due to lack of oxygen because my breathing is doing good again which leads me to todays topic.

I finally got out of the house for part of the day on Wednesday. I had an appointment with my pulmonary doctor. I first had to go to the local hospital to get a breathing (NIF) test. I don't know why this test can't be done at the doctor's office but anyway I scored a 35 which was impressive to the doctor. The higher the number the better and it had been as low as the teens before. He said that I was about the same as 6 months ago and improved over a year ago. He said that my breathing and overall pulmonary condition was holding steady if not slightly improved and that my general appearance looked better. I guess I must have looked awful a year ago. He really didn't say too much this time except that he would see me in 6 months. I don't think the doctors know what to say sometimes because they expect to see someone declining and I am not (well maybe just a little).

I then got to go do one of my favorite things. SHOPPING! We don't shop at the Mall much any more. The only thing handicapped friendly is their parking lot! Walmart is more handicapped friendly with wider aisles and they even have a family restroom which unfortunately is rare to find anywhere. Lower prices also make shopping there extra enjoyable. A big day for me but it was nice. More soon (If I can get my brain jump-started)......Debbie