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7 Year Post Stroke Update

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Forum' started by PatO, Sep 21, 2020.

  1. PatO

    PatO DI Forum Luminary Highly Rated Poster Showcase Reviewer Veteran Marines

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    I missed posting last year (1st 5 yr updates are on the forum) so this is a 7 yr update since I had a bad stroke.
    So my status hasn’t changed much the last two years, the Covid quarantine not withstanding. My right side is partially paralyzed, my left side numb; the numbness switches over to the right side half way up my body. I have never asked my neurologist to explain this. My balance and control switch in my brain is damaged so I need someone holding onto my right side while I do a funky walk - the right leg sometimes gives out and I have fallen on concrete even with someone holding me. I go to the gym 5-6 times every week (except when hard lockdown and gym closed). I can only do very light weights (dumbbells and machines) but at this age and condition I am only interested in keeping as strong as I can and the blood flowing to all the muscle groups. I walk 2-3 km up and down the paved road by my house daily at 5pm. I am only so-so watching my diet and eating mostly chicken and pasta (salmon when I can get it), a steak once a week, and red wine at night. Sleep apnea is a problem and I am waiting for the VA to address that when they reopen. I have a 90% VA disability and a 25% California disability rating, mostly for other issues. I am able to rise above my limitations thanks to my extended family. My wife tells me I am a better person now than the cocky former marine I was 10 yrs ago.
    So, still above ground, thankful for that. Stay safe, get medical checkups, I didn’t.
     
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  2. eskirvin

    eskirvin DI Forum Adept Blood Donor Veteran Navy

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    I feel for you having to live with the results of a stroke, but I'm happy you did indeed live. So many don't. Have you read up any on the effects of metformin and NMN on the disease called aging? I recently started using them and I've had creaky joints, pains, and vagueness I associate with aging vanish. It is worth looking into. I wish you many years of life with what sounds like an amazing family. Take care.
     
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  3. anti_crazy

    anti_crazy DI Forum Adept

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    I logged on just to give this post a 'like' rating. Bravo to you for the long fight to stay at your best. Impressive.
     
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  4. Philpots

    Philpots DI Senior Member Restricted Account

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    Must check those two out. Not had a stroke that you can speak of, just a tiny one which was a bit mystifying so thanks for the info. Im over 80 by he way and getting joint and back problems.
     
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  5. eskirvin

    eskirvin DI Forum Adept Blood Donor Veteran Navy

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    There's a whole book I read on aging that had lots of very useful information in it. Metformin and NMN are relatively cheap and easily available outside of the US, so it made sense to me. I'll try to dig up that title and post it here when I can view my Amazon orders.

    Here it is: "Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don't Have To"
     
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  6. OP
    OP
    PatO

    PatO DI Forum Luminary Highly Rated Poster Showcase Reviewer Veteran Marines

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    I had a “mini” stroke before my big one and ignored it. I also ignored taking a cold drink from the fridge and telling my wife the fridge was broke when the drink felt warm. Can’t ignore the warning signs my friend.
     
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  7. Happy Camper

    Happy Camper DI Senior Member Restricted Account Infamous Showcase Reviewer

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    Pat, please read this and see if you qualify for 100% unemployability. I hope this helps, sounds like you might be able to get more, but I don't know your individual ratings.

    When you file a disability claim, you’ll also need to fill out these additional forms for Individual Unemployability benefits:

    • A Veteran’s Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability (VA Form 21-8940)

    You may be able to get disability benefits if you meet both of the requirements listed below.

    Both of these must be true:

    • You have at least 1 service-connected disability rated at 60% or more disabling, or 2 or more service-connected disabilities—with at least 1 rated at 40% or more disabling and a combined rating of 70% or more—and
    • You can’t hold down a steady job that supports you financially (known as substantially gainful employment) because of your service-connected disability. Odd jobs (marginal employment) don’t count.
     
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  8. danbandanna

    danbandanna DI Forum Patron Highly Rated Poster Showcase Reviewer Veteran Marines

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    Have you seen this approved for retiree's living abroad ?
     
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    Last edited: Sep 21, 2020
  9. Notmyrealname

    Notmyrealname DI Forum Luminary Highly Rated Poster Showcase Reviewer

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    We think you are AMAZING.
     
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  10. OP
    OP
    PatO

    PatO DI Forum Luminary Highly Rated Poster Showcase Reviewer Veteran Marines

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    I
     
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