About Me

I am a 54 yr old male with an interesting health history. I first became disabled in 1978 with a major stroke. I was only 24. I could not talk, had short term memory problems and for a time did not even know who I was. I was given up on by my Dr and my wife. I did not like that and I got mad. Since all I could do was watch TV I started watching Soaps three hours a day. As I watched I tried to repeat what they said. After 3 years I could talk normally again and my memory was a lot better. During that time I was also disnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. That is what caused the stroke. Again I was given up on. But I was not ready to quit. I enrolled in a rehab program and learned that exercise and a good diet could affect my brain chemistry and possible kill the tumor. Well whether it was true or not, I followed that advice and now the tumor is gone. Since then I have had two more major strokes, many minor ones and TIA's, had cancer twice again, a heart attack, developed Diabetes and just last year I had six congestive heart failures and COPD. In April 2008 I had another heart problem that called for two stents being put in my heart. During recovery at home, I had another small stroke which knocked me out. While falling I broke my ankle. I spent three months in a nursing home. After coming home I still was bed ridden for another month. Now I can walk with some difficulty. My heart is giving me more trouble and I just had another stroke just like my first one. I had absolutely no memory for a day with little pieces coming back over the next couple weeks. I am doing much better now but still forget things like how to pay the bills :-). I also held several jobs where I have been able to help people who have mental disabilities. Even when I am not working (meaning not being paid) I still advocate for their care. I walk as much as I can, I communicate via e-mail, I am active in my church and I have a new wife and family.