In a time of calm

What am I doing in this time of calm!

Well there has been a huge amount of upheaval with two moves in a month and the wait for knowing when that was going to happen. That took months to actually happen so I was completely stressed out. So in this time of calm I have started writing more and slowly but surely getting back into the swing of things.

What does that mean?

It means that I will be writing more and hopefully be more visible here. There are still days when endometriosis and cerebral palsy rear their heads and make things more difficult than I wish. That's ok though as I'm getting more help. So my mental health is stable. Although I have still got the odd bad day.

So what's changing here?

There will be a few book reviews coming in. A few more personal posts about my favourite things. I will do a few makeup looks that I can do. Meaning anyone can do them. My range of clinical depression will also be spoken about as I've only hinted about it in posts. Although my cerebral palsy and endometriosis will always be the main theme of my blog and somewhere people can learn about either condition or both. Because I feel that there is not enough taught about either of them.

The future?

The future is always uncertain but it helps to prepare a little bit. So learning about each age group of people who have cerebral palsy or endometriosis.

Why am I doing this?

I'm doing this now because I'm in a better place than I have been and feel ready for a few little changes on the blog. I also know that there are going to be more changes ahead so I want to write while I can. There's going to be another move but I don't know when. Writing while I can is another positive step forward too. Right now this feels good and I know that it's the right thing to do. Especially as I have now been acknowledged as a digital creator on Facebook and Instagram. Which is where I'll be found a lot. My Instagram name is @sweetestmoonuk.

My hope for the future!

My hope for the future is that I can be around for a lot longer although there is no set age for people with cerebral palsy.

Moving forward with cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. Living with cerebral palsy can present challenges, but with the right mindset and support, it is possible to move forward and live a fulfilling life.

One of the first steps in moving forward with cerebral palsy is to develop a positive mindset. This means focusing on what you can do, rather than what you can’t. It’s important to remember that everyone has limitations, and that having cerebral palsy does not define who you are as a person. By focusing on your strengths and abilities, you can build self-confidence and a sense of purpose.

For me this is the blog and ability to talk about my conditions. Both cerebral palsy and endometriosis. From a personal point of view. In order to educate others.

Another important step is to build a support network. This can include family, friends, healthcare providers, and community organisations. By connecting with others who understand your challenges and can offer support and encouragement, you can build resilience and overcome obstacles. I was always taught "there's no such word as can't"

Physical therapy and assistive devices can also be helpful in managing the symptoms of cerebral palsy. Physical therapy can help improve mobility and muscle strength, while assistive devices such as braces, walkers, and wheelchairs can help with mobility and daily living activities. It’s important to work with healthcare providers to find the right treatment plan for your individual needs.

Education and employment opportunities can also play a key role in moving forward with cerebral palsy. There is a lot more to do in this section as it's not always considered as an adult condition.

Pursuing education and career goals can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment, while also improving financial stability. It’s important to advocate for yourself and seek out opportunities that align with your interests and abilities.

Finally, it’s important to practise self-care and prioritise your physical and mental health. This can include getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, staying active, and seeking out mental health support if needed. By taking care of yourself, you can better manage the challenges of cerebral palsy and live a full and meaningful life.

This is why at times I don't post. As I feel mentally drained because my CP has caused problems either the night before or days before. And more often than not endometriosis has also interfered

In conclusion, living with cerebral palsy can present challenges, but with the right mindset and support, it is possible to move forward and live a fulfilling life. By focusing on your strengths, building a support network, accessing appropriate treatment and assistive devices, pursuing education and career goals, and prioritising self-care, you can overcome obstacles and achieve your full potential.

For me this is having a fantastic family of my own and my blog here, podcast and books which you can get from Amazon.

As I have said I'm in a bit of a stable place at the moment so I will be pivoting slightly on the blog back towards things I like and do as I had been through different things all mentioned here in previous posts. What have I got planned for now regarding the blog? You will have to find out by reading more.

Cerebral palsy at 50

Introduction

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, posture, and coordination. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, most commonly before or during birth, but it can also occur in early childhood. The severity and symptoms of cerebral palsy can vary widely depending on the extent and location of the brain damage.

While cerebral palsy is typically diagnosed in childhood, it is possible for someone to be diagnosed with cerebral palsy later in life. This can occur if the symptoms were mild or went unnoticed earlier in life, or if the individual experiences a neurological event later in life that exacerbates existing symptoms or causes new ones.

At age 50, someone with cerebral palsy may experience a range of symptoms, depending on the severity and type of cerebral palsy they have. These symptoms may include difficulty with movement and coordination, muscle stiffness or spasticity, tremors or involuntary movements, difficulty with fine motor skills, and problems with speech, swallowing, or breathing. They may also experience pain or discomfort associated with their cerebral palsy.

It's important for individuals with cerebral palsy to work with their healthcare team to manage their symptoms and maintain their overall health and well-being. This may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medications, and other treatments. With appropriate care and support, many people with cerebral palsy are able to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

And the following is about how cerebral palsy has affected me as I turn 50.

What about me?

As I enter my 50s later this year I am learning and preparing for the next stage in my life.

I have mentioned the previous decades in the following posts CP and Depression in your 40s, CP and Depression in your 30s, young adults with cerebral palsy and Depression, Teens with CP and Depression and finally Dealing with Depression and Childhood with cp. Now as I move forward with the next step I've come to realise that for me anyway that the changes I face in the future are going to be even tougher than now.

What am I planing?

I am mentally and physically preparing for the time that I may end up in a wheelchair permanently. Right now though I'm only in one when I need to be in places where I can't use a mobility scooter or walk, because of getting tired in the process. I have also moved home twice in the past 3 years because of the situation. And those I have mentioned in Urgh Again! And others.

Why now?

Because I am now nearly 50 and although it is very likely that I will be living a long time. There is just no guarantee that will be the case. And as the changes come quicker the older I get I would like to be in a position where I can just get on without worrying about what is going to be happening next physically.

At the moment!

I am in the hopefully penultimate home before anything really happens. I am keeping myself able as much as possible while I can but the changes are coming. The thing is as my daughter said recently you can fight but eventually you will be tired of fighting against everything. So I am preparing for that time.

Why?

Because I want to be able to live without too much worry and still have fun and adventure whilst my body tires and changes over time. And before I am stuck and unable to do things for myself.

Final thoughts

I'm not being morbid, I'm being realistic as I know that things will happen. And I want to live my life to the fullest within the limits I have now and the future. I will also be bringing you along so that more people can learn about the condition.