I don't have flare ups
Or- I don't recognize them. I do have great difficulty walking, standing and if I do house or garden work I need to take breaks every fifteen minutes to relieve my lower back pain. I have Uveitis and have had it for at least two years. When I last saw my eye doctor he basically just dismissed it. But now I know it is tied to this illness. I am old but very strong. I take care of myself, drive my car, shop for groceries and play a poor game of golf. I am 92. Because I do not complain a lot I suppose people think I am OK but I know I am extremely limited in what I can now do. I am doing floor exercises given to me by PT but quite the treatment at their establishment because I felt I could just as well do the exercises here at home, and I do. My eyes do bother me and I am going to make another appointment with my eye doctor and tell him what I think is causing this condition. I will see where that leads. I do not think I have as advanced a condition as many of you write about but I do know that I walk totally bent over from the hips up and cannot hold my head up when in that position. Sitting - I am fine. Thank you for letting me talk.
Hi Charles, and welcome. You sound like a remarkable man. Your positive attitude and approach to your condition is something we can all take comfort from, I think.
I can empathise with the comment about not complaining. I know a good few people who don't know I have a disability because I tend to keep it to myself. Close colleagues know, of course, and close friends. I am very wary, embarrassed even, about telling others about my condition. Socialising is the most difficult - I can't see people who aren't directly in front of me as my neck is severely fused now. Sitting in a group, or teaching, as I do, can be painful and problematic. It's surprising how many friends I have - good friends who I have known a long time - who forget about the problems I have. And, of course, I don't want to draw attention to it. So I'll sit at an awkward angle and then pay the price later on.
It's great to read your comments. I very much appreciate them. It helps me realise that it's possible to fight AS and win.
Thanks again.
Go steady.
Steve - Community Advocate.
Hi
Wow it is very inspirational to see that you are still fighting this condition with such strength at 92! I hope your trip to the eye doctor goes well and you find a way to improve your situation. Doing exercises at home is what I feel more comfortable doing too and I'm glad to hear you are keeping at it!
Wishing you well,
James (Community Member)
Welcome to our community. We are thrilled you found us. I am thrilled you are here. I think your resilience is remarkable. I hope your eyes are not a serious issue. Please keep us informed.
rick - moderator
