Friday December 20th 2013

I'm all for forgiveness and friendship, getting another chance etc... but this absolutely shocking!!!

A BRITISH mum under fire for encouraging her young daughters to write letters to murderers in prison says it teaches them a valuable lesson about forgiveness.

Julie Paris, from Mancot, Wales, has set her seven-year-old twins Ellie and Molly up as pen pals to American prisoners. The move has angered the rest of her family who say she is putting the girls at risk, The Sun reports.

Ms Paris has been writing to Australian and US prisoners for 13 years, and runs a website matching penpals with lonely inmates. She says she can identify with the loneliness of prisoners behind bars because of her time spent in state care after her parents’ divorce.

When some of her 25 penpals wrote asking about her young daughters, Ms Paris encouraged the girls to write back.

The twins now spend hours writing letters and drawings for their prison penpals, speak to the men on the phone and are even travelling to the US to attend a family wedding of one inmate.

“It’s really fun. I like getting letters in the post. It’s exciting,” said Ellie.

Molly corresponds with two convicted murders in the US – a 46-year-old man who murdered his ex-girlfriend and a 40-year-old man doing time for murdering his wife.

Lonely...Ms Paris says she can identify with the isolation felt by prisoners because of her time spent in foster care as a teenager.

Her twin sister Ellie writes to a 48-year-old US murderer who was jailed for killing two paedophiles who harmed his niece.

The letters from the convicted killers are often dotted with drawings, cartoons and hearts and often urge the girls to be good and listen to their mum.  Ms Paris says she vets every letter.

“The girls know prison is a bad place. I don’t tell them what the prisoners have done,” says Julie. “I don’t think they are old enough to understand and am worried it might scare them. I just say ‘they were naughty when they were younger’ and leave it there.”

Ms Paris said she has been criticised by family members, but believes her girls are learning important lessons about forgiveness, as well as bringing comfort to lonely prisoners who have no one else to turn to.

“I don’t care what people say. Some people will criticise me but I don’t see anything wrong with it. It teaches forgiveness,” she said. Ms Paris says she spends hundreds of dollars a year on postage - including $110 on Christmas cards this year.

“We’re really making a difference to the prisoner’s lives," she said.

Some of Ms Paris' prisoner penpals are currently on death row in America, but she insists she can identify with them and is willing to write to anyone except for sex offenders.

“It is unbelievable what a difference it makes to these men to have someone write to them.”

Read more at The Sun.
 

Thursday December 19th 2013

My MS symptoms seem to be kept at bay at the moment, same as usual, but I did get my ass in gear to do some exercises and walking with crutches which went better than normal. Having been awake the majority of the night, I found this blog that I would like to share. Christmas can be a difficult for many of us, I hope this blog strikes a chord:

Damaged Goods

By Trevis Gleason Dec 18, 2013 25 Comments

Author’s Note: Not everyone with multiple sclerosis experiences each and every symptom we know can be caused by the disease. Likewise, not all of us experience many of the difficult emotional issues that MS can bring. Just because you haven’t felt the things about which I write today, I would ask that we all show respect to those who have and are feeling them.

The approaching holidays can be a bright and wonderful time of the year. It can also lead to some tough times for people living with MS. While friends and family gather to bask in the warmth of the season, we can sometimes feel “less-than.”

No one would want a gift from the damaged and discounted goods table; why, goes the faulty logic, would someone want us?

For people in supportive and loving relationships, this may seem like an unfounded worry. But even I hear whispers of the little voice of doubt creep into my head in the dark hours when I am alone with my thoughts.  

And, let’s face it, these fears are not unfounded.

Dating and relationship-building is tough work in a culture of perfection. We need to whiten our teeth, wear expensive clothes and pretty shoes if we’re going to attract a potential mate. How are we going to find and then pursue Mr. or Miss Right if we have optic neuritis or use a forearm crutch?

Being overlooked for a year-end promotion can be easy when the bosses see us in a wheelchair. Family may continue to ask more of us than we can deliver during the hectic holidays, or they just stop asking (or talking to us at all) all together…

For many of us, our financial situation has been compromised by MS.  Whether it’s lower income, high insurance costs or the price of medications; budgeting for gifts can make us feel more like Ebenezer than Elf.

We know it’s not logical to think of it this way, but sometimes it feels like it’s Christmas on the Island of Misfit Toys and we are destined to be marooned there for the rest of our lives; unwanted, unloved, and damaged misfits.

I have no cure for this sentiment. I can only offer to you the hard-fought knowledge that we do have worth and value, and that we can enrich the world around us if given the opportunity.

I urge those in our community who are finding this time of year to be particularly difficult on any level to reach out to your local chapter of the Society or to an MS Navigator (1-800-344-4867). They will be able to help you to find resources to get you through the difficult patch and off that island.

It is strength – rather than weakness – that leads us to ask for help when we feel alone, unloved and damaged. I have been there and can attest that my local chapter made all the difference in the world for me.

My name is Trevis Gleason and I live with multiple sclerosis. I may have a few things wrong with me, but I’m far from “damaged goods” and so are all of us.

Wishing you and your family the best of health.

Cheers

Trevis

Wednesday December 18th 2013

Well my move in date to my new home has been put back to 28th January 2014 :-(

It's been one of those days that I don't have much to say right now.

My fav Christmas Song & Movie

My favourite Christmas song is Last Christmas by Wham....classic!!!!

My favourite Christmas movie is Scrooged...brilliant!!!!

What's yours?

Monday December 16th 2013

Had a nice relaxing day, listening to music...relaxing that is until about 7pm when I was terribly sick. Bet you all wanted to know that.

Today was took up with cancelling Satellite subscription, TV license, council tax, phone bill etc.. And paying up to mid January.

I am not tired in the slightest so I have selected Blu rays to watch until the morning. I can't sleep...help.

Roll on January 10th 2014

Roll on to the next chapter in the life of Paul McKay...10/01/14 is the date.

That is the date when I move into my new house, still can't believe I am paying cash for it right out without having seen it, but desperation does weird things to you sometimes.

I heard from the vendors solicitors and one of their points was the burglar alarm although fitted, was not working, so the purchaser, i.e me, shouldn't expect it to be working on entry...I have made a request they fix this prior to moving in, and I have heard they have a lot of bricks on their drive, which again I have requested they move prior to entry...my Mustang parking here!!!

For the first time in a long time...

For the first time in a long time Christmas has taken on a whole new meaning to me. I was so materialistic in life and Christmas was about gifts to me...not anymore. I feel like Bill Murray in Scrooged (my fav Christmas movie) I get it now!!

I couldn't care if I never got another present again, it's all about the people. I will miss my son something terrible this year and am shedding tears as I type this, but looking forward to spending time with my loved ones.

If you can bring joy to someone's life...you will feel better for it and you will want to carry that out throughout the year. I'm still feeling good after handing out food parcels and blankets at the weekend, I can't wait to do it again.

If I could have one Christmas wish, it's to have certain friendships back. How do you prove to people you have changed and a much nicer person if they won't give you a chance??? I mean it's Christmas after all.

Yes it all sounds a bit corny...but it is how I feel.

Sunday December 15th 2013

I researched a test for my MS today, a test which can hopefully help. See below:

Have you been ill for sometime and unable to make a breakthrough that brings you real improvements?

Would you like help to change your diet, nutrition and lifestyle to get your health and life back on track?

Bionetics is a well-established company that is the UK’s leading provider of non-invasive Body Field Analysis Testing. We are proud to have helped many thousands of people improve their health by identifying and helping to eliminate many of the basic underlying imbalances which have caused the problem. 

Take advantage of our NEW pre-test consultation to find out if this test is suitable for you. The most informative sites often don't answer all of your questions or help to alleviate your doubts about ordering a service online. A simple 5 minute chat with one of our advisors may help you to make a decision. Simply call us on 0845 456 0570 (local call rate numer) or email us your contact details to info@bionetics.co.uk and we'll get back to you. We can only offer this service for consultations on landline numbers.

Regardless of the condition or symptom you are suffering from, the Bionetics Test and resulting Personal Health Program can help you rediscover good health!  We have successfully helped people suffering from a varying range of health problems including Allergies, Food Intolerances, IBS, Chronic Fatigue, M.E, M.S, Acne, Eczema, Fibromyalgia, Asthma, Weight Gain, Constipation, Arthritis, Thyroid Imbalance, Anxiety, Depression and more.

Non-invasive hair testing is proving to be an increasingly popular tool, used by more and more people seeking a natural, safe and effective path to better health and wellbeing.  Hair testing is a very cost-effective alternative to conventional tests such as saliva, blood or urine.  It is also extremely convenient as you simply send us several strands of your hair in the post and receive your results by post or email in the comfort of your own home. 

We even offer a FREE 15 minute phone consultation or email support should you wish to discuss your results with an expert and learn how to make positive changes to your health.

The tests and recommendations are designed to look beyond the specific condition or symptoms and address many of the dietary, nutritional and lifestyle influences that are real underlying factors dictating the state of your health.

These influences include food intolerance's, nutritional deficiencies, pathogenic influences (bacteria, fungus, parasites and viruses) and toxic burdens (toxic metals, chemicals and radiation), which are undermining the body’s homeostatic and immune functions, which in turn leave the body weakened and prone to poor health.

For Example: food intolerances and gut pathogens may be the cause of IBS symptoms or toxins and nutritional deficiencies could be causing fatigue related illness.

How does the Bionetics Test work?

We use samples of hair to carry out our testing. Hair has become a very important factor in forensic and complementary medical practice due to its ability to store information about an individual. The government recently released information about the use of 'hair testing' as a method of tracking terrorists; where they have been and what they have eaten. Although relatively new when compared to more conventional blood, stool, urine and saliva screening, hair testing is proving to be a popular, non-invasive and cost effective alternative to normal tests.  The technology used is manufactured in Germany under ISO standards and carries CE Mark IIa approval for medical diagnostic use.

Body Field Analysis uses well established electromagnetic frequency principles to generate waves that cause the hair sample to vibrate setting up a unique resonant pattern for that sample. This sample is then scanned

Taking the Bionetics Test is easy

You simply need to follow the online instructions in order to download an application that you send to our Testing Centre along with your hair samples for analysis. The results are available online or via post within 7 days of the receipt of your application. You can pay online using our secure facility or pay by cheque with your application.

How does it compare to other tests?

There is no other test which directly compares to the Bionetics Test and the factors it covers for 1 affordable payment of £54.95.

Most standard food intolerance's tests work by identifying key immune system markers like IgG and IgE and can cost from £150 - £300 for a similar number of foods. However, these tests do not include pathogenic, toxic and nutritional influences, which we feel are equally important.

Hair Mineral Analysis covers the basic minerals and some toxins but does not cover vitamins, amino acids, foods and pathogens.

There are a variety of other tests using blood, urine, stool and saliva available online which will give you the array of factors covered under the Bionetics Test.

Test accuracy is a big issue and one over which no single product can claim an outright advantage. Often, the tests are measuring slightly different markers, which, makes direct comparison very difficult. Also, many conventional tests or procedures simply fail to pick up common digestive problems caused by Candida, for example. Even blood samples are not entirely accurate if the toxins are not present in the blood but have been lodged into the intracellular fluid. Bio-Field resonance testing can be affected by environmental factors, although this can be overcome by relating the results to some basic symptom history.

Our advice is to do your research well and do select the test or procedure which you feel most comfortable with and that fits your budget and time constraints.

If you decide that the Bionetics Test is right for you then we have a dedicated team to help you through the entire process and to answer your questions along the way.

 The Bionetics Test - Areas of Interest

All Bionetics Tests now come with a FREE 15 minute phone consultation. Take advantage of the opportunity to discuss your results and health concerns with one of our experts and learn how to make positive changes to your health.

Whatever your condition you too can benefit from taking a bionetics test and begin to understand the factors that may have caused your problem and how to deal with it. Please select from the list below.
You may wish to sign up to our Newsletter Service and receive further information about the products and servcies that we offer and which we think you will be interested in. You can sign up in the box on the left hand side of this page, it only takes a few seconds and then you can continue to browse your area of interest.

Acid Reflux Acne AIDS ADHD Allergy Alopecia (hair loss) Angina Anxiety Alzheimer’s Arthritis Asthma Autism Avian Flu Back Pain Bacterial Infections Bird Flu Bone Loss Bronchitis Candida Coeliac Cellulitis Cholesterol Chronic Fatigue Colitis(Ulcerative) Common Cold Constipation Crohn’s Disease Depression Dermatitis Diabetes Diarrhoea Diverticulitis Ear Infections Eczema Endometriosis Food Intolerance Fibromyalgia Flatulence Gastritis

Gastroenteritis General Health Check Glaucoma Gout Heartburn Heart Disease Haemophilia High Blood Pressure Herpes Hypothyroidism IBS Impetigo Infertility Influenza Insomnia Leaky Gut Macular Degeneration ME Menopause Migraine Mercury Poisoning Multiple Sclerosis Osteoarthritis Osteoporosis Pain Parasites Parkinson’s Peptic Ulcer PMS/PMT Psoriasis Rheumatoid Arthritis Rosacea Stroke Thyroid TMJ Ulcers Viral Infections Wind Other

 

Saturday December 14th 2013

Yesterday I had some great bonding time with my son, watching Christmas movies, eating sweets & playing games. But he didn't stay over as he missed his mum and wanted to home after X-Factor :-(

With my mums help, we put together 2 large bags of food for the food shelter and I managed to scrape 9 blankets together too.

Connor kicked my ass....

I couldn't believe it today, Connor kicked my ass at Chess. No cheating by him at all, very strategic in  his moves...proud daddy lol. Yeah he then went on to kick my ass at snakes & ladders, iPad games....where will his talents end???

Friday December 13th 2013

So Friday the 13th...unlucky for some.

I am getting more and more passionate to helping out the less fortunate, aside from the MS website im working on....tis the season...right? Well I was amazed at the recent news reports on the number of homeless on the streets of Dundee...the powers at be are asking for food to be donated to the food banks, this I will do, but I would also like to donate some sleeping bags and today I sent emails to a few manufacturers and suppliers in the hope of securing decent rates on these, thinking I can approach local business to do the same.

Being homeless doesn't bare thinking about but on the Scottish streets in Winter....no way!!!

I have been following a program on TV with a famous chef trying to change the UK hospitals food menus to healthier and tastier options. Currently hospitals working on 40%!!! waste. Shocking and because food being up in wards can't be reused due to bugs etc..

Thursday December 12th 2013

Had the doctor in today and as expected I have been fighting a chest infection for nearly 2 weeks now, these antibiotics should sort me out.

I increase my dosage of Ropinirole with the Dr to help my restless legs.  She told me about some side effects that stunned me -

The frequency of these side-effects is unknown

• abnormal laboratory test results
• hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria, angioedema, rash or itching
• liver problems
• side effects that may occur if Ropinirole hydrochloride is taken at a high dose. These may include behavioural problems such as addiction to gambling, hypersexuality, increased libido, an urge to buy or to shop, an unusual increase in appetite or binge eating. You or your carer should seek medical advice if these symptoms occur

So besides the usual side effects that most meds come with, addiction to gambling is not one I expected to hear. The meds target a specific part of the brain that causes this.

I received my bill from my Solicitor today (for my separation) all I can say is OMG...license to print money!!!

Cannot sleep...

Typical night for me, 2am and wide awake!!!!

Wednesday December 11th 2013

Slept on the sofa, well minus the sleep part and woke this morning feeling so sore. Feel my legs are getting stiffer these days, could be down to being of the meds, I don't know. I'm also aware the shakes I get are getting worse....it all sucks!!!! But I guess I have to be thankful, as my granny would always say "there are always others worse off than yourself".

Well it ain't long now until I move home, and as I have to buy everything all over again, I spent today looking at things online and to get an idea on price. I have a list of the bare minimum work to be done and items to be bought.

I am letting Connor pick all his own furniture and colour scheme for his bedroom. So far he wants Bunk Beds and his room to be Blue.

Tuesday December 10th 2013

Bah humbug...officially fed up of Christmas songs and adverts!!! But I did finish my Christmas shopping today, although I want to buy Connor a few more small things.

I got 2 replies today to my emails for volunteering, both very promising but talks on hold until the New Year, this did spurn me on to start creating my MS website (to early to share....work in progress lol)

I am also thinking about fundraising ideas...watch this space.

Monday December 9th 2013

Woke up determined to follow through with my volunteering. I found these reasons why I should:

Community Service: Top 10 Reasons to Volunteer

Thinking of becoming a volunteer? See a list of reasons that will help you make up your mind.

#10: It's good for you.

Volunteering provides physical and mental rewards. It:

• Reduces stress: Experts report that when you focus on someone other than yourself, it interrupts usual tension-producing patterns.
• Makes you healthier: Moods and emotions, like optimism, joy, and control over one's fate, strengthen the immune system.

#9: It saves resources.

Volunteering provides valuable community services so more money can be spent on local improvements.

• The estimated value of a volunteer's time is $15.39 per hour.

#8: Volunteers gain professional experience.

You can test out a career.

#7: It brings people together.

As a volunteer you assist in:

• Uniting people from diverse backgrounds to work toward a common goal
• Building camaraderie and teamwork

#6: It promotes personal growth and self esteem.

Understanding community needs helps foster empathy and self-efficacy.

#5: Volunteering strengthens your community.

As a volunteer you help:

• Support families (daycare and eldercare)
• Improve schools (tutoring, literacy)
• Support youth (mentoring and after-school programs)
• Beautify the community (beach and park cleanups)

#4: You learn a lot.

Volunteers learn things like these:

• Self: Volunteers discover hidden talents that may change your view on your self worth.
• Government: Through working with local non-profit agencies, volunteers learn about the functions and operation of our government.
• Community: Volunteers gain knowledge of local resources available to solve community needs.

#3: You get a chance to give back.

People like to support community resources that they use themselves or that benefit people they care about.

#2: Volunteering encourages civic responsibility.

Community service and volunteerism are an investment in our community and the people who live in it.

#1: You make a difference.

Every person counts!

Sunday December 8th 2013

Today was a typical lazy Sunday day, starting off watching 'Sunday Brunch'...love that programme followed by some football games and writing part of my horror story.

But I spent most time today emailing various charities offering to volunteer in some way. I have nothing but time on my hands and I'm desperate to offer my services to help out.

I have been thinking of me and my MS. Scotland is the worldwide capital of number of population with this devastating debilitating illness....and the help out there is poor. The feeling that I relate most to is the feeling of isolation and being cast adrift.

It is with this in mind, I will also be creating a website to help MS sufferers, documenting help in their area, I will also be making this information available to the Health Professionals as it is scary how many don't know or recommend helpful facilities in their area....this has to change!!!! And I'm going to give it a go.

Saturday December 7th 2013

Another bad, no a terrible nights sleep, I got about an hour's sleep. So I lay awake for hours in the dark listening to music, the night seemed to last forever.

During the day I had a longer than usual wait for Connor visiting as my parents took him to Scone Palace for a Christmas fayre and to see Reindeers. So I done some exercising, watched a football match and wrote a few pages of my book.

Saw Connor today for the first time in 2 weeks, he is getting big. I bought him a cover for his iPod to keep it protected and he was happy. He bought me a wooden Christmas Reindeer of his pocket money, and also gave me a mug designed with his drawing from school as well as Christmas cards. He drew me a few pictures and we played games on the iPad together before cosying in together, eating sweets and watching Saturday night tv.

Friday December 6th 2013

My MS symptoms have remained the same....but my sleep pattern, or lack of  is the biggest issue right now.

So I was awake most of the night and finally started something that I had been toying with for last 7 years. I'm pleased to report that I started writing, well typing, a horror story which will hopefully be finished this time

RIP Nelson Mandela

If ever there was an inspirational person...he was Nelson Mandela, who has died today 5th December 2013. Everything that man went through in his live, to come out the other end with such a spirit of forgiveness was extraordinary!!! Incarcerated for 27 years, despite this he felt no bitterness nor sought revenge.

What a man....Rest In Peace Nelson Mandela.

Thursday December 5th 2013

Just over a month until I move to my new house, so my diet is up the left but what with Christmas on the way, I'm not going to document my eating habits until January.  And it will be healthy, healthy, healthy all the time.

Heard from the MS nurse at the hospital today....they want me to be off Gilenya for 3 months before starting on the Tysabri Infusions again. What is with this Health Service of ours??? And these specialists....you wait a year to see them for less than 10 mins and the info he gave me was wrong, outrageous!!!

And all the while my illness suffers.

Wednesday December 4th 2013

Today started off bad, after about 3 hours sleep. I fell badly, hurt myself and it took ages to get up from the floor. Had major problems with arms to push myself up and my legs remained poker straight, had major difficulty bending my legs. I am putting this down to lack of MS medication. Waiting to hear from hospital still on my date for infusion.

I had to submit a list to my solicitor on what household items I intend to take from the matrimonial home but on submitting, it was a pathetically short list, I'm leaving with next to nothing...fresh start is best.

Breakfast - No

Lunch - 2 x Tuna Mayonnaise, 500ml Bottle of Coke

Dinner. - Bowl of Tomato Soup, Roll with Butter

Snacks - Bowl of Pumpkin Seeds
Packet of Prawn Cocktail Crispw

Tuesday December 3rd 2013

I was awake the entire night last night and as I type this I have been awake for 38 hours so far, and I am not tired yet.....WTF is wrong with me. This has the 5am look so time to stick on a movie.

My legs didn't play up today and were feeling slightly stronger but I'm still waiting to hear when I will be attending hospital for my MS infusions, that's has been over a month I have ceased the oral meds so I have emailed my MS nurse on this matter.

I came across quite sick this afternoon but thankfully it passed.

Today was a very strange, melancholy day for me. I have made a lot of mistakes in my life and hurt a number of friends & people close to me in the process. The important thing here is apologising and meaning it, and never go to sleep on an argument.

I didn't like that person i was and made a conscious effort to change for the better, it's not a thing that happens overnight but something you have to work at, it takes time or can't be classed as a real effort to change yourself.

I started to make my changes about 4 months ago, my first job was admitting I had MS and starting my blog, I was embarrassed I had this, and put on false pretences....it's no way to live and is a horrible existence. My motto now is honesty is the best policy, and I have found people to be much nicer and kinder to me as a result. Believe me, when you experience this, you wouldn't want to change it.

I'm not trying to preach here,  I'm just happy now with the changes I made that I wish others to experience the same. This life is far too short and if you get the chance to build bridges...grab them!!

If you know me and I have not been nice to you or caused you harm in the past, may I take this opportunity to apologise profusely.

Going to be a strange Christmas...

I'm sitting in my lounge and for the first time ever, my home is not festive. I am not putting up a tree or decorations as this place is not home any more. I started detaching myself from this place some months ago due to my separation and will be moving into my new house in January, but I'm not excited about the move. I have lived here for nearly 13 years and had it built for me, it's safe to say, a feat I will never achieve again, but I guess I have to be thankful to have experienced it...I will miss this place loads.

I will also be without my son this Christmas...it's going to be difficult.

Monday December 2nd 2013

Today I felt good, my legs were working good, I even managed to walk some using crutches. I exercised a bit, my usual exercises but I had no appetite today whatsoever, I ate zilch!!

On the plus side it was a good day for me on the trading front.

Sunday December 1st 2013

December is here already!! Today I researched new vehicles, since I am entitled to a new vehicle under the mobility scheme, and 4x4's are the preferred choice what with my Mustang being so low (which I'm still keeping) and to transport a wheelchair easily, God forbid I damaged the Mustang with it lol.  There are lots to choose from but I'm favouring one from Audi.

So today Dawn had invited her friends over for lunch and to introduce them to me, very nice people they are to. Hats of to Dawn for her cooking skills.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - Steak with Pepper Sauce,  Chips, Onion Rings, Sausages & Bacon, stuffing & beer

Dinner - Pizza, Chips, Onion Rings, beer

So much for the healthy eating lol

Saturday November 30th 2013

Today was a lazy day with nothing new to report on the MS front but I spent some time researching a new wheelchair for when I go out for long durations. One with removable wheels of course, but with so much choice, it will take me a while to pick one.

So a typical Saturday of good company, movies, sat night tv, beer & food

Breakfast - None

Lunch - None

Dinner - A Chinese Banquet of 8x Chicken Satay Skewers, Duck with Fried Rice & BBQ Sauce, Chips, Curry Sauce, Fried Rice, Prawn Toast, Spare Ribs, Won Tons, Seaweed, Golden Sliced Chicken, Spicy Chicken Wings plus large bottle of Pepsi lol (no I didn't eat it all on my own lol)

Glasgow Helicopter Crash

My thoughts and prayers go out to those who died and were hurt in last nights crash. A bunch of folk enjoying a few drinks and live music, and this happens....tradegy!!!

And a massive shout out to those fantastic Glaswegians who all helped in the rescue.

Friday November 29th 2013

So today I got my ass into gear and started some light exercising today. Worked mainly on leg lifts and stretching, lifting some light weights.

My mum and aunt came out to visit me today and done a bit of cleaning when they were here :-) I'm not that untidy...honest!!!!

Tonight was a night in with movies, beers & pizza.

Breakfast - Roll with Butter, Cup of Tea

Lunch - Cheese & Pickle Roll, 500ml Bottle of Water

Dinner - Spicy Chicken Pizza, Budweiser Beers, Crisps

Day 45 - Friday October 25th 2013

Today I woke from a nice sleep and thought I was Action Man again by exercising like a mad one. I walked on my treadmill for 20 mins, carried out various exercises on my legs and arms. Immediately started doing squats and after about 8 I lost my legs and landed on my ass lol.

I spent the afternoon with my legs wired up to my muscle stimulator whilst listening to music.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - Chicken & sweet corn sandwiches x 2, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - (ditched the pizza) Chicken pie, potatoes, peas, carrots, 500ml bottle of water

Thursday November 28th 2013

Even a night in bed and not on sofa doesn't help me sleep, so it must be sleeping on my own that gives me this issue. I got up early and fell asleep in my reclining chair for a good part of the day.

I'm still waiting to hear on my infusion but I have noticed that since I kicked Gilenya,  I am more lethargic.

So tonight Dawn came to visit me with the kids...little cuties. Takeaways all round though, I have to get stricter with myself.

Breakfast -  None

Lunch -,None

Dinner - Halh of a 10" Spicy Chicken Pizza, Donnor Kebab, Chips, Glass of Pepsi

Thanksgiving

To all my friends across the pond, I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving x

After 2am....

After 2am and I'm wide awake as usual. Normally I would be watching a movie or on Facebook but I gotta admit I'm not on Facebook as often as I used to be.

If your reading this, are on Facebook and enjoy Horror Movies...I run a very successful Group on Facebook with nearly 2,600 members!!! It's called 'All Things Horror' so join us if your interested. I have to thank my Admins who have kept it going when I go AWOL...so thank you Maria, Rhonda, Jen, Gordon & Dax....thanks!!!

Going to listen to some music me thinks.

Wednesday November 27th 2013

Again a terrible nights sleep....why!!! And the tv sucks during the night as I don't have satellite in my bedroom :-(

So I called time on laying in bed and got up, spending time on the internet trying to find things to decorate my new pad. As well as having to get the bathroom converted into a wetroom, I need to widen the interior doors slightly to make getting around easier. I'm going to have part of the walls taken down and have disappearing sliding doors fitted, the ones that slide into the wall cavity space...practical and cool.

Dawn visited again today with more filled rolls and food for my dinner....thanks again babe. We shopped online for Christmas gifts for her twin girls which was fun, followed by a movie. We watched a great funny Zombie movie called 'Doghouse' (yes I have a thing for zombies lol)

Tonight I watched the 2 Manchester teams play football and tinkered on the stock exchange. After this I watch a movie called 'Pacific Rim'....great effects but I was disappointed.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - 2 x Tuna Mayonnaise & Cucumber Rolls, 500ml Bottle of Coke

Dinner - 2 x Steak Pies, Potatoes, Carrots, & Garden Peas, Fruit Trifle, 500ml Bottle of Water

Tuesday November 26th 2013

My MS was the same as usual today but I will be commencing a better fitness routine with the help of my girlfriend Dawn. So exercise was non existent today, mainly due to the fact I had a terrible nights sleep last night.

Dawn visited me this morning with 5 fresh filled rolls, she makes sure I eat right...sometimes lol, we watched a couple of movies and had a chilled out day. First up we watched 'American Mary' which we both enjoyed but not so much the second movie 'Cockneys vs Zombies'.

Connor got a great report at parents night, I'm a very proud daddy. He is being moved up a group for maths, reading & spelling...clever boy.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - 2 x Tuna Mayonnaise & Cucumber Rolls, 500ml Bottle of Diet Irn-Bru

Dinner - Tuna Mayonnaise & Cucumber Roll, Ham & Coleslaw Roll, 500ml Bottle of Water

Monday November 25th 2013

So again I have lapsed in keeping my blog up to date as things have been crazy. I'm going through a separation which has added tons of stress which doesn't do my MS any favours, but I'm happy to report I have met a lovely woman and we are now in a relationship, she accepts me for who I am, my past and of course my disability to which she is an amazing help.

So I had to secure the services of a second solicitor (costing thousands!!!) this time to handle conveyancing, selling my half of the home to wife and I put a written offer in for a house and my offer was accepted :-)

Exercises went out the window today but chose to spend time in my sunroom listening to music.

I didn't eat much today but what I had was...

Breakfast - Roll with Butter, Cup of Tea

Lunch - Tomato Soup, 500ml Bottle of Water

Dinner - Roll with Cheese & Pickle, 500ml Bottle of Water

Wednesday November 13th 2013

Woke to find myself 'stiff' again....my leg of course!!! This lasted the bulk of the day, I will be contacting the MS nurse to discuss, beginning to think that it may be associated with the medication Baclofen, one of those drugs where you need to find the level that suits yourself. I decided against exercising today and my friend brought round a large McDonalds breakfast for me, I ate too much but it was a nice change.

So lazy day today watching movies but before all this I have another 'grump' with apple. So I bought Connor the latest iPod touch and surprised they don't include a main plug for charging, sure they supply a USB lead for charging, but a plug should be supplied for all it costs. Took delivery of an iPod mains charger and a docking station for my wee guys Christmas.

Today's movie viewing were Batman - The Dark Knight & The Dark Knight Rises, every time I watch Heath Ledgers performance as The Joker, I can't help being both amazed and saddened he is no longer with us...what a performance!!!

Breakfast - McDonalds Scrambled Egg, Sausage, Hash Brown, Sausage & Egg Muffin, Drink of Sprite (told you it was a large breakfast lol)

Lunch - Spicy Mexican Chicken Baguette, 500ml Bottle of Water

Dinner - Spicy Chicken Pizza, 500ml Bottle of Water

Tuesday November 12th 2013

I know some of you have been following my MS battle through my blogs and I have made some good friends through this but I am aware reading about a guy with the same problems daily (mainly) eating the same stuff..lettuce, seeds & shit can get boring, I thought I would mix it up a little....MS issues, diet and stuff from my general day...I'm not going to pretend I'm exciting....but I am bored hence this blog lol.

I slept on the sofa and slept badly. Fell over at 2am and awake before 4am....wtf!! My MS symptoms today are the same as always, stiff leg, knee bending issue...but other than that I feel peachy lol. I exercised to a 30 min playlist I created and finding the squats getting tougher.

Update:- During the time I let my blogs lapse, I have came off Gilenya (MS drug) not been much use to me and going back on the monthly infusions even though I tested positive for the deadly JC Virus...still, something's got to kill us..right?

I bought my son Connor some Christmas presents last week. Got him a 32gb iPod touch, Nintendo DS2, Mario Kart 7 & Fifa 14 games plus Mario DS case and accessories. Hope he likes!!! Just finished updating Connor's iPod touch. It has took a few days but hoping to influence and expand his music taste past Gangham Style lol....so 700 songs, 97 game apps, some Simpsons cartoons & 48 photos of him, his dad and my cars!!!

I wanted to share an issue I had with Apple at the weekend...angered me big style. My iPad 3 of just over a year has developed a fault....no sound!! Contacted Apple who claimed they could repair over the phone but I would have to pay £109.99 for technical support. At the end of the 3 hours and 14 mins phone call, I was told the issue was a hardware problem and not a software one that I paid for...I was raging, since this fee covers software issues on all Apple products for a year, they are refusing to refund my money.

So I gave Connor my old iPad yesterday and he was thrilled. I bought myself the new iPad 5 or iPad Air as it is called yesterday. £546 for the 64gb version....grrrr!! To make matters worse, I woke to find Connor playing his iPad with sound coming out at full pelt...magically repaired itself. To say I was pissed off was an understatement!!!

So I have alway been partial to a bet at the weekend but hardly win so decided to buy and sell shares on the stock market using the plus500 app...fantastic. Initially purchased a £100 of shares and took out £164 total and have shares in USD, Heating Oil & Natural Gas still running.

So having just had dinner, I am going to settle down with a movie or two and more than one beer ;-)

Breakfast - Orange Juice

Lunch - Tuna Roll, 500ml Bottle of Water

Dinner - Smoked Salmon, Kale, Lettuce, Yellow Peppers & Pumpkin Seeds, 500ml Bottle of Water

Day 44 - Thursday October 24th 2013

Terrible sleep last night, walking sucked today as a result. My neighbour cooked me some lunch and brought it through. It's very humbling when you have people who care about you. I spent the day exercising my arms when I wasn't catching up with my sleep.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - Lorne sausage and egg roll, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - Cheese and tomato pizza, 500ml bottle of water

Snack - Crisps

Day 43 - Wednesday October 23rd 2013

I had a terrible sleep last night, and made a purchase at about 4am....

The original MagneTrainer ER a light, portable mini exercise bike - Top of the Range and Top of its Class. This premium magnetic cycle delivers ultra smooth, quiet, judder free exercise, designed in the USA as an alternative to cumbersome upright bikes. MagneTrainer ER is a user friendly home leg and arm exerciser perfect for general fitness, to aid rehabilitation or remedy mobility and circulation issues; endorsed by therapists & fitness professionals. An exercise bike inspired by its big bike cousins remodeled and packed with a host of quality enhancements including robust components, improved stability and a neo-drive system to give sixty percent more resistance than other similar bikes. In-addition, has a range of bolt-on's to enhance the exercise experience; suitable for commercial or therapeutic applications

by MagneTrainer-ER

I was impressed with the reviews from MS sufferers, so nothing ventured and all that.

I had a visit from my personal trainer who brought me lunch again, and an hour was spent exercising.

Breakfast - 2 x small brunch bars, glass of fresh orange

Lunch - 2 x tuna mayonnaise & cucumber rolls, 500ml bottle of coke

Dinner - 2 x cheese & branston pickle sandwiches

Snack - crisps

Day 42 - Tuesday October 22nd 2013

I awoke today feeling good, almost forgetting I had MS. I had a visit from my personal trainer who brought some lunch for me..too kind. Spent an hour working on leg exercises. My neighbour cooked dinner for me, I was spoiled today.

Breakfast - 500ml Bottle of water

Lunch - Tuna mayonnaise & cucumber roll, 500ml bottle of coke

Dinner - Lentil soup, apple pie & custard, 500ml bottle of water

Day 41 - Monday October 21st 2013

Today I am extremely tired having had only a few hours sleep, my leg is having issues bending at the knee and some shaking in hands, to be considered going by my recent sleep deprivation.

One thing for it today - 1) lay on sofa 2) turn on the music 3) sleep!!

Not hungry today but couldn't stop drinking water.

Breakfast - None.

Lunch - None.

Dinner - Lorne sausage, 3 x pork sausages, fried egg & fries, strawberry trifle, 500ml bottle of water

Day 40 - Sunday October 20th 2013

Lazy day in front of tv, leg better today.

Breakfast - None

Lunch -

Dinner - Donner kebab, salad, chilli sauce, pitta bread, beer

Beers throughout evening

Day 39 - Saturday October 19th 2013

My leg was mega stiff today, went for a drive in the Mustang and picked up supplies for the relaxing weekend. Spent evening eating and drinking and watching movies. Got a slap up meal cooked for me for my dinner, was truly spoiled.

Breakfast - None.

Lunch - Egg & cress baguette, coronation chicken baguette, 500ml bottle of coke

Dinner - Sirloin steak, pork schnitzel, fries, pepper sauce.....AMAZING!!!!

Beer & snacks throughout the evening.

Day 38 - Friday October 18th 2013

Today A-ok with my symptoms and playing with Connor on last day of his school holiday. I have a lazy weekend planned with good company, good food & alcohol with Movies & Music on the side.

Breakfast - Cornflakes with milk, glass of fresh orange

Lunch - Sausage roll, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - Chicken goujons, crispy pancakes & fries, 330ml tin of Irn Bru

Beer and various snacks throughout evening.

Day 37 - Thursday October 17th 2013

I have my son again today and just spent the day playing board games, computer games and watching cartoons...no issues with my MS today and felt like a 'normal' dad today.

I'm eating a lot and I mean a lot of pumpkin seeds that I believe everyone should be when the realise the health benefits...see below:

By Dr. Mercola

If you’re in the mood for a chewy snack that doubles as a phenomenal health food, look no further than pumpkin seeds.

With a wide variety of nutrients ranging from magnesium and manganese to copper, protein and zinc, pumpkin seeds are nutritional powerhouses wrapped up in a very small package. They also contain plant compounds known as phytosterols and free-radical scavenging antioxidants,1 which can give your health an added boost.

Best of all, because pumpkin seeds are highly portable and require no refrigeration, they make an excellent snack to keep with you whenever you’re on the go, or they can be used as a quick anytime snack at home, too.

9 Top Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

1.  Heart Healthy Magnesium

One-quarter cup of pumpkin seeds contains nearly half of the recommended daily amount of magnesium, which participates in a wide range of vitally important physiological functions, including the creation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate, the energy molecules of your body), the synthesis of RNA and DNA, the pumping of your heart, proper bone and tooth formation, relaxation of your blood vessels, and proper bowel function.

Magnesium has been shown to benefit your blood pressure and help prevent sudden cardiac arrest, heart attack, and stroke, yet an estimated 80 percent of Americans are deficient in this important mineral.

2.  Zinc for Immune Support

Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of zinc (one ounce contains more than 2 mg of this beneficial mineral). Zinc is important to your body in many ways, including immunity, cell growth and division, sleep, mood, your senses of taste and smell, eye and skin health, insulin regulation, and male sexual function.

Many are deficient in zinc due to mineral-depleted soils, drug effects, plant-based diets, and other diets high in grain. This deficiency is associated with increased colds and flu, chronic fatigue, depression, acne, low birth weight babies, learning problems and poor school performance in children, among others.

3.  Plant-Based Omega-3 Fats

Raw nuts and seeds, including pumpkin seeds, are one of the best sources of plant-based omega-3s (alpha-linolenic acid or ALA). We all need ALA, however, ALA has to be converted by your body into the far more essential omega-3 fats EPA and DHA -- by an enzyme in which the vast majority of us have impaired by high insulin levels. So, while pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of ALA, I believe it is essential to get some of your omega-3 fats from animal sources, such as krill oil, as well.

4.  Prostate Health

Pumpkin seeds have long been valued as an important natural food for men’s health. This is in part because of their high zinc content, which is important for prostate health (where it is found in the highest concentrations in the body), and also because pumpkin seed extracts and oils may play a role in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, or enlarged prostate). Research suggests that both pumpkin seed oil and pumpkin seeds2 may be particularly beneficial in supporting prostate health.

5.  Anti-Diabetic Effects

Animal studies suggest that pumpkin seeds may help improve insulin regulation and help prevent diabetic complications by decreasing oxidative stress.4

6.  Benefits for Postmenopausal Women

Pumpkin seed oil is rich in natural phytoestrogens and studies suggest it may lead to a significant increase in good “HDL” cholesterol along with decreases in blood pressure, hot flashes, headaches, joint pains and other menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women.5

7.  Heart and Liver Health

Pumpkin seeds, rich in healthy fats, antioxidants and fibers, may provide benefits for heart and liver health, particularly when mixed with flax seeds.6

8.  Tryptophan for Restful Sleep

Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid (protein building block) that your body converts into serotonin, which in turn is converted into melatonin, the “sleep hormone.” Eating pumpkin seeds a few hours before bed, along with a carbohydrate like a small piece of fruit, may be especially beneficial for providing your body the tryptophan needed for your melatonin and serotonin production to help promote a restful night’s sleep.7

9.  Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Pumpkin seed oil has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. One animal study even found it worked as well as the anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin in treating arthritis, but without the side effects.8

What’s the Best Way to Consume Pumpkin Seeds?

In order to preserve the healthy fats present in the seeds, pumpkin seeds should be eaten raw. If you choose to purchase seeds from a bulk bin, make sure they smell fresh – not musty, spoiled or stale, which could indicate rancidity or the presence of fungal mycotoxins. Organic pumpkin seeds are preferred, as they will not be contaminated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

However, most nuts and seeds have anti-nutrients like phytic acid that can make all the previously discussed important nutrients less bioavailable when you consume them. So if you plan on consuming seeds or nuts on a regular basis, it would be wise to soak or sprout them. To make them more palatable, you can then dehydrate them in your oven, or better yet and more cost effectively in a dehydrator. There are many dehydrators on the market, but Excalibur is generally considered the best. I have used one for over 20 years. They are readily available on Amazon.

If you prefer to eat the seeds roasted, do so yourself so you can control the roasting temperature and time. Raw pumpkin seeds can be roasted on a low heat setting in your oven (no more than 170 degrees F or 75 degrees Celsius), sprinkled with Himalayan or other natural salt, for about 15-20 minutes.

Day 35 - Wednesday October 16th 2013

Today I woke feeling refreshed and rested. My legs were behaving and my stomach grumbling for breakfast, it's was surprisingly easy getting back in the routine again of eating better at the usual set times. I can't stress enough the importance of good healthy eating, it really does make you feel better in mind and body.

Today I had my son here again (school holidays) and he kicked my ass once more at basketball, but he also wanted to do exercises with his dad. So once he got changed into his Barcelona football kit he was ready lol. We started off lifting light weights, doing arm curls etc. Of course before we started we spent a good 10 mins stretching. We done various sitting exercises and used the stretch exerciser on both our arms and legs.

I heard of another 3 diagnosis of MS this past week...it's all I seem to hear about now :-(

Breakfast - Cornflakes with milk, 1 glass of orange juice

Lunch - 2 x Tuna salad baguettes, pkt of crisps, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - Pepperoni pizza, ice cream, 500ml bottle of water

Day 34 - Tuesday October 15th 2013

Woke today and noticed my legs were stronger and walking improving but also woke with annoying shakes that settled after 5 mins. These shakes were mainly in the hands and arms but only came on when wakening, and didn't return for rest of day.

My left leg stiffness, particularly the knee area was not as prominent today either as I doubled up my dosage of Baclofen - 2 tabs morning and 2 tabs night.

Baclofen: DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Baclofen is an oral and injectable medication that relaxes skeletal muscles, the muscles that move the skeleton (and also called striated muscle). Chemically, baclofen is related to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a naturally-occurring neurotransmitter in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that nerves use to communicate with one another. GABA released by some nerves causes the activity of other nerves to decrease. It is believed that baclofen, acting like GABA, blocks the activity of nerves within the part of the brain that controls the contraction and relaxation of skeletal muscle. Baclofen was approved by the FDA in November 1977.

Today was spent playing indoor mini basketball with my son....that was exercise in itself lol. I also applied for an MS clinical trial involving stem cells. Hey I will try anything!!!

Breakfast - Porridge with pumpkin seeds, 2 glasses of fresh orange

Lunch - Tuna and cucumber sandwich, mixed bowl of fruit grapes, raspberries, strawberries and blueberries, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - 2 fillets of chicken, kale, baby carrots, garden pees, beet root, bowl of custard, 500ml bottle of water

Snack - Toast & cheese, cup of tea

Day 33 - Monday October 14th 2013

Well 3 and a half hours sleep last night is not good when your living with MS let alone throwing your 7 year old son into the mix, who came to stay lol. Today I kick started again, my healthier eating which I will have to stick too this time..and don't tempt me you know who you are lol.

So I have found my walking improving but getting annoyed with restless legs mainly in the evening, I am taking a drug called Ropinirole for this, and they are beginning to work, but what does one take for pins and needles in the hands??

Last night, apart from playfighting with Connor,  I undertook some light exercising to arms and legs.

Breakfast - None

Lunch - Tuna, lettuce sandwich, 500ml bottle of water

Dinner - Steak pie, potatoes, baby carrots, garden peas, kale, trifle, 500ml bottle of water

Snack - Toast

Day 32 - Sunday October 13th 2013

It's been nearly 2 weeks since I have updated my blog and I don't know where the time has gone. I shamefully admit though to having never eaten as much takeaway junk food & beer these past 12 days or so than I have ever done in the same time period. After a very promising start to my new health regime, I know, I know but I will be back to those lovely seeds and lettuce soon enough....groan lol.

What has happened in the world of McKay this past 12 days or so? Started off good then got shit when the hand controls on my mustang failed at 70mph but all fixed now, fell over in my hall and put my head through a partition wall...sweet, but thankfully I lived to tell the tale lol.

After going through the month of September with no MS medication, it certainly took its toll on my legs, like WOW, the main issue caused my left leg not to bend at the knee easily at all and took much forcing to position it.

However with the help of my new personal trainer, I am more determined than ever. She is very patient and won't let me slack on the exercises. She believes my left leg problem could be coming from my hips, she is also surprised how much power I have in my weak left leg, so much so she is confident I will be running around in no time lol I wish!!!

Stretches are important, my exercises were gung-ho and apart from zapping my strength probably done me no use.

My neighbour suffers from an illness that affects her walking similar also to MS with the brain signals being interrupted in doing there job, she is looking at muscle implants, so that's my homework for today, doubt it would do anything for me, but gotta check it out.

Keep checking my blog as I am back to updating it daily.