Gimp life

Yesterday I had the second EMG in my life. Out of all the needles, surgeries and MRI’s I’ve had over the years, this is the only test I truly feared. I had it a few years ago to investigate the nerve damage to my right leg. I believe that damage was caused by an errant cortisone injection directly into my sciatic nerve, causing me to levitate off the O.R. table despite sedation. This recent EMG was only slightly better. The previous doctor told me to “Hold still, while I shock you.” There is no way to not have anxiety after that sentence!

This time I had a board certified neurologist, who told me less people do the test now that the insurance reimbursement has declined. He said everyone used to do this test, trained or not, just to get the sweet compensation. Lovely!

Rick could not be there yesterday, but I did bring a good friend. She accompanied me and stayed during the hour-long procedure. She helped by keeping me distracted, and the conversation moving. We even had a giggle about the faux skylight of hot air balloons. I’m afraid of heights. So, this was not a comforting image. Especially, when that view would clearly be seen while falling out of a balloon! (Or, staring up at them from the ground, but that would be too logical!)

Afterwards, I couldn’t really move my right arm at all. This coupled with my right leg weakness and new hip, my right side was just a cruel joke. I suppose the good news is that the test will probably turn out “normal.” The numbness in my arm wasn’t so bad while being electrocuted and having large needles stuck in it!

As frustrating as it is not to have a clear reason for my pain, weakness, numbness and other symptoms, at least for the time being, the only terminal disease I have is being alive. The body is annoying, but temporary. I am grateful for my family and friends, whose love will transcend this world and these trials. Peace