Philippine Cheez Whiz on toast, topped with German salami made my breakfast quite a treat, washing down a now reduced medicine diet of three tablets daily.
I'm at breaking-point in more ways than one.
My doctor is on my side, my physiotherapist too, and lately my MP also...but the one that really matters most, the hospital, are totally acquiescent in that they are busy, but oblivious to patiently-impatient-patients.
I have, of course, put myself second to those who need attention, I have waited 10 months, with a slipped disc/fractured spine...can you fellow bloggers confirm that I have waited long enough without ANY treatment??
All I have been given in 10 months are bloody painkillers, the bottle of which I've used for 'street football practice' and also some good physiotherapy too...the latter I have welcomed, the former I have shunned.
In that time I have gone from a well-abled football player, a striker of two goals a game, to a registered "incapacitated person" who is shortly in need of a wheelchair, as I can no longer move freely. I have seen my perception of the world change radically, as my spine hauls me down to the spot where I find myself.
Dressing, showering, eating, watching tv are all challenges now, some of which I am starting to lose. I have kept my mind sharp and positive, and fought hard and bravely, but I've been exhausted recently, and can no longer fight it alone, in constant pain, with no help at all from our glorious and rich country.
When I touch my lower spine, I have 'electric shocks' all through my right kneecap and right foot, and a burning sensation as if someone has used a wood-planer across my thigh, and this lasts for most of every day.
I have requested help, treatment etc, monthly and my GP is sincerely a good...very good one...but why have I, like so many others, been cold-shouldered by the hospital that appears to require a visa and a sponsor to enter??
My spine is crumbling away, slipping further, and my mind wonders to going abroad for treatment.
I never thought my biggest battle would be to be seen, (yes, I am still waiting to be seen for MRI...let alone treated!!! after TEN months), by the NHS, as opposed to fighting a cracked spinal chord.
I have not given up yet, I have one last major push in me...but my time is running out...or else my shattered body will finally curl up.