A word from Suzanne... I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) twenty years ago and decided I would not let this diagnosis define me. I am more than just a person with MS. I am a person that just "happens to have" MS. I really do not think of myself as handicapped. In my mind. this is someone who can't do things. I just need to modify HOW I do things. My disability has progressed from walking with a cane to using a walker and, finally, needing a wheelchair. Losses were just bumps in the road and required problem-solving. With each problem, I searched for a solution. My own struggles have given me a deeper understanding of the physical challenges faced by the elderly and people with disabilities. Despite obstacles, with a few modifications, I am still able to live independently. Many assistive aids can be found throughout my home. Hence, I speak from the position of a user of many of these products. Many people "talk the talk" but, I "walk the walk".
My working career has included both the medical and business side of nursing. I am a registered nurse but, unfortunately, I have been out of the medical arena too long to have any credibility about medical issues. My background, however, gives me a unique perspective of being both a provider and a receiver of care. With that experience, I hope to be able to offer creative suggestions to meet physical challenges The Forum on this website gives people a chance to ask for help and share what they have found to help them over barriers. I challenge you to take the opportunity to share your successes as well as ask for help in solving impaired situations. I want people to think, "I can do it - I just have to figure out how."
My mission is to help people with physical challenges live life to its fullest. I want to help reprogram the way people think about their expectation for success in being independent. I hope that by offering ideas that could help with everyday tasks, the restrictions on your life experiences can be lifted. Finally, this website is intended to be helpful. If it is not, or if I can change something to make it better, tell me.
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