 |
 |
HI GANG: I had a pallidotomy performed on one side, my right about 18-20 months ago. I went into it with unrealistic expectations during a period of emotional upheaval. The improvement was hard to judge at first, because they cut allmy meds roughly in half immediately after surgery. Once I returned to my regular regime the improvement was and continues to be amazing. I feel like I've sort of peaked and am gradually going downhill. I continue to live on my own where prior to the surgery I was terrified of being by myself for more than an hour. The really bad periods at both extremes- freezing immobile and severe dyskenesia are nowhere near the intensity or duration. That has helped my problem with depression at times, but I still ride an emotional roller coaster,tied to my physical capabilities. Problems from the surgery from a physical standpoint , slight paralysis of my left cheek with some speech difficulties, also, it takes a while to get used to one side working properly. EMOTIONAL/MENTAL aspects, some loss of short term memory peoples names, particularily. And of course, GAMBLING. I've always had an obsessive compulsive personality, but Iost and still don't seem to have any self-control or will power. Gambling was a major problem before surgery, aafter it became an addiction.*I've searched hi and low for a gamblers anonymous, if anyone knows of one on Vancouver Island, west coast of BC (Canada) I'd appreciate hearing how to get in touch with them. Or is there a support group on the net somewhere. I tried AA meetings butv found they made me want to start drinking again. So my experience is major physical improvement on one side, slight speech impairment, s/t memory loss, major emotional problems present before surgery seemed to be amplified. I'd like to have the other side done, trusting in god but thedoctors don't share my viewpoint. They see how well I'm doing now compared to before, I see how great life is AND how much better it COULD be. At 40, virtually bankrupt, with an ongoing health and gambling problem, I am having a hardtime meeting anyone of the female persuausion. Not surprising! I know what you are aLL saying, get M Y act together first and you're right and I am trying... Thanks for listening... Bill