TD And Me

       
I have learned many things these last few months.  First I learned that even though I may feel better I have to work harder to show others that I am better.  Second.  I've learned that being a determined woman has it's perks.  Third. I've learned that science, modern medicine and herbal remedies played a roll in my improvements as well as self awareness. I also learned that I have to be comfortable in my bare skin.  No more changing my hair color because I feel unattractive.

There is no cure for Tardive Dyskinesia.  It affects men harder then it does woman.  That doesn't mean that we have to lie there and die.  It's doesn't mean we have to accept what happened without a fight.  I can see where I really had to concentrate on keeping my head and body still in the beginning.  It was a conscious effort that proved to work to my benefit.  I know that getting plenty of sunshine is essential to my mental health and overall well being.  Getting outside and doing things with family and friends is also important.

The hardest part of my journey was dealing with the stares and comments.  The inability to move normally.  I wanted to be normal more then anyone will ever know.  So, I fought for myself.  I went to gym and got on a treadmill.  Yes, the involuntary movements were worse in the beginning.  It took time to teach my body how to function normally.  

The last Neurologist I saw said it was emotional.  This is true.  I notice that when I remember something painful, I begin to move.  If I'm angry or crying deeply then it's worse.  So I try very hard to maintain my composure.  I knew that when I slept the involuntary movements stopped, unless I was talking  in my sleep.  I learned what my triggers are.  For instance - anything with caffeine will trigger the Tardive Dyskineisia.  So I drink decaf coffee.  About one cup.  And I drink sprite, root-beer, bottled water, sports drinks.  I always read the labels to make sure there isn't any caffeine.  I can have chocolate and chocolate snacks without any problems.

I carry Benadryl and Relax And Sleep in my purse to help me if I start to have tremors or stiffness.  I only take it if someone else is driving.  I also take Nature Made Relax And Sleep at bedtime.  This herbal supplement helps to relax my muscles and it also helps me sleep.  It contains Valerian Root, Melatonin, and Chamomile.  The tea form of Valerian or Chamomile works even better.

I've been fortunate that I haven't had a relapse in several months.  I'm ready to work and am willing.  All I need is a chance to prove that I can.  I still move involuntarily on occasion.  It's not as harsh as in the beginning.  I ssh, ssh, and my hand moves up and I wave my finger from left to right.  It's very hard to stay out of deep thought.  As it is a trigger.  And when typing I always skip an entire word.  So I read and re-read all of my work. I know the common grammar errors I make and try to fix them.

 

My advice to anyone fighting with Tardive Dyskineisa is KEEP FIGHTING.  Read my blogs and view my videos.  I may sound like the clears eyes, dry eyes guy from time to time, but the information I have to offer is based on my own personal experience and research.  Go to TheLoveroses24 Donna C. Ledesma.  See where I began and see where I am now.  KNOW that there is hope.

Written by
Donna C. Ledesma
Copyright  © 2012
All Rights Reserved.

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