I detest fitness and wellness influencers. Well, I despise all influencers. Especially if they introduce themselves as an influencer. It makes me want to introduce myself as a boxer. They’re often poorly educated and without a good grasp of science, biology, or medicine. You know what saying they love that’s incredibly offensive and ableist? It’s …
I’ve been really busy with work and I forgot to write about med changes! They happened in September. Better living through pharmacology. This year, I saw not only my awesome neurologist but also a physiatrist. He’s also cool, a bit sardonic but that’s my jam so the appointment was great. He’s the doc who specializes …
Twice a year, I go to the city for an Ocrevus infusion to manage MS. It keeps my immune system from snacking on my brain and spinal cord. The first time was terrifying because I had no idea what to expect. What did they think might happen, given all the talk about infusion reaction, pre-medication …
I got an Alinker and joined a study on it and it’s amazing. It’s a walking bike, a different type of mobility aid. It’s like a walker but you’re supported on a seat the whole time. You’re essentially walking like you used to. If you go to my A Splendid Mess page on Facebook, you …
I’m still learning how to navigate life with a disability. I haven’t taught CPR or first aid in years and I used to love it. Turns out I was really good at it, too. I loved seeing things click for students in class and watching them leave confident that if they witnessed an emergency, they …
The past couple years, I started to develop an immunity to gaslighting. Today, I realized it’s great that I’m nearly impervious now to gaslighting but what’s even better? I don’t have to put myself in situations to experience gaslighting at all! Common refrains I heard for many years included such hits as, “I never said/did …
I was following someone on social media for their art. They also have autism and do a lot of advocacy, which I think is great. I unfollowed after a discussion about accessible spaces because it enraged me. I didn’t announce it, I just left. That’s what grownups do. Medical and mental health professionals have suggested …
I’m the MS sufferer who will give it to you straight, absent the bullshit and toxic positivity. Today’s topic is Identity. The MINUTE you develop a chronic illness or a visible disability, that’s it for you. No matter what you’ve accomplished, or who you are, it doesn’t matter anymore. Now you’re a checked box. Your …
Thankfully, the neurologist had nothing but good news to share. My appointment was in late September, so I’m pretty behind! My slow season for business usually starts in September, but it’s the end of November and I’m still going. It’s awesome but there’s definitely some things piling up as a result. I just can’t do …
The nice thing about hiking this trail in Canmore (Alberta) is the options. AllTrails marked this trail as easy, which is true but you have a couple of options that make it moderately challenging with disability. I did it with a cane and a great deal of the trail is accessible to ‘wheelies.’ I have …
