The non-wanderer returns

Starburst

I say non-wanderer because I currently have inflammed soft-tissue in my 'good' foot. The weather is beautiful and I can barely walk around my small garden, typical, eh?!.

So, yes Sophie is back (after successfully completing year one of university ) and reporting good news. Two of my three uni modules count towards my final degree and I have both results; a 1st for the psychology module and a 2:1 for the sociology one. Overall, I have achieve a high grade 2:1 for my first year. Given all I've been through, I am very happy!

Physically, things could be better. Certain symptoms have got worse and I'm waiting to see if/when I get referred to the Lupus clinic in London. My joints are much the same, walking is really difficult. I'm desperately trying to make the best of things and have been thinking about the possiblity of using crutches. My best friend talked me into seeing it as an aid to independence rather than an admission that I can't function normally as well as I used to be able to.

That's my news and I'm back posting and back to the real world. This summer, I have some paid work, some voluntary work and left myself enough time to rest as well as have fun. It can't be all work and no play, right?!

Missed all of you wonderful people. Hope you are able to appreciate the sunshine even if it's only gazing out the window.

Numptydumpty

Well done you for your first year results!
As for the crutches, go for it. They will make you more mobile and take away some of the pain of walking.
Nice to have you back,
All the best,
Numpty

dreamdaisy

Starburst! What fabuolous news about your grades, you've done very well girl! The fact that you achieved that despite all your health trouble is testament to your determination and grit - I doff my cap.

Right, crutches. They can be a great help (I can't get anywhere far without mine) so I think it's something worth exploring. Do you have a mobility/disability shop near you? The staff in these establishments are often knowledgeable and helpful about such matters. Do you already use a stick? They come in a wonderful range of colours and patterns but crutches offer better support and stability - well, I find they do! I wish you well with your summer break and work and once again, well done my lovely. That's a smashing piece of news! DD

mig

Hi Starburst and welcome back,many congratulations on your grade results,be worth it all in the end.Mig

stickywicket

Hey I am so, so pleased. I know how hard it's been for you for much of the time and you have done brilliantly just to persevere but a first and a 2:1 That is amazing and I hope you're very proud of yourself, Sophie.

Hang on to that friend of yours. I like her. She has the right attitude. So do you. Enjoy the long vac. You've earned it.

bubbadog

Welcome back to the fold starburst! Your the brains of the group then!! I use crutches my house as can't use my chair because of the carpet and I think my crutches are a godsend because they help me balance and can spread my weight across them to make it easier to walk. They are also a great weapon if someone needs a good bashing!! Glad to see you back and congrats on your grades! will have to change your name to Brainburst!

Starburst

Thank you so much for the kind words and support. Not going to get too sentimental but this forum has helped me through some really challenging times. Although it's still hard and my symptoms aren't always under control, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and I'm slowly getting to grips with coping with my new life. I have the support I've received here to thank for that!

I don't use a stick or anything. I'm more keen to give crutches a go first but I'm willing to be open minded. Well, more open minded than I have been previously! Life is good and I want to make the best out of it even if it means using a stick or a crutch or two. You only live once, right?!

stickywicket

I wouldn't dream of minimising the value of this forum, Sophie, but I think your own attitude and determination have been the key factors. Open-minded is good and you are quite right - we only have one life. Much better to make the most of what we have than waste it moaning about what we haven't. Go for it.