Whilst Ian is tackling a traumatic experience, he does have good moments and there have also been some very special times. His brother-in-law and wife visited in March and his daughter and grandson, Jennie and Joshua visitied in April. Ian’s Niece and nephew popped in and then Leanne came to visit followed by Mark &…
Ian has lost the avbility of his legs to stand/walk. This has meant that Fiona has had to physically move him using a transfer board and sheets and pulling on his clothing. He also battles to swallow so a simple thing like swallowing saliva is not so simple any more. It’s been a tough time…
Some of you may have noticed that Ian does not communicate as much as he used to. Using his fingers is a struggle, his left thumb is more nimble than any other finger and even that, is difficult. Sending WhatsApp messages take much effort so if you get something from Ian, know he’s made the…
The progression is always at play but keeping calm is not always easy. For example, as the muscles in Ian’s tongue and throat change shape and/or weaken swallowing and speaking becomes more of an effort than it was. Water on its own can be dangerous and cause Ian to choke, but water with a bit…
Joshua, Ian’s grandson joined Laura (previous Ian en ander champion) and Pieter, Ian’s son-in-law at a relay mountain bike event in Sabie. They rode 7km in relay to raise funds for Ian. A sponsor came forward for their team. Team Brakanjan rode for 2hrs20 and did very well! They had completed 7 laps by then. …
For most people with MND the intellect and memory are not affected, nor are the senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. Ian’s legs are getting weaker, this means the joy of walking has become no more. Each step is a struggle and a worry as to when he might fall. Ian has become…
Ian has a shoulder-brace to keep his arm from dislocating at the shoulder. His right bicep has now dropped. He has to wear this when walking as the weight of his arms pull down too much. His orthitist has fitted his neck support and wants to see Ian in 2 weeks time to make adjustments…
The extended loadshedding meant the electricity was off for most part of the night making the bubble mattress no longer a viable option. We chose to buy an egg-shell mattress and returned the bubble mattress which was hired and not bought. A sponge placed strategically under his wrist to promote blood flow back down Ian’s…
One of the most common problems that affects people with motor neuron diseases is called dependent edema. This is swelling of the hands and feet which gradually extends upwards into the arms and legs. This is caused because veins depend on muscle movement to return blood and fluid to the heart. Without the muscle movement,…
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