It’s a Dog’s Life…

Posted byluckydawgwilsonPosted inUncategorized

(Public service message)

My roof still leaks, musical events loom but we cannot agree rehersal time, I appear to be working nightshift for the entirety of summer, there are heavy things to move, and holes to dig in the garden.

All situation normal, and I have little new complaint, however I was reminded it is an anniversary – of sorts – and I have a promise to keep to myself and all I hold dear.

Stroke awareness !

I am educated, inteligent, and aware, and still I missed (or failed to admit) the symptoms.

It really seems like a lifetime ago now, and seldom crosses my mind in day to day interaction, but I remain grateful to have escaped so lightly, and recovered so fully. I do not want to forget the fear (believe no-one who says they were not afraid), because that is where the clarity comes from.

Clarity to remember what is important, and how fortunate I (we) are to have those things we take for granted – health, movement, speech, family, friends…

Rather than wrestle with my own words:

How to identify a stroke

The FAST acronym

  • Face weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
  • Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
  • Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
  • Time to call 999: if you see any of these signs.

Acting FAST will give the person having a stroke the best chance of survival and recovery. Always call 999 straight away.

Other symptoms of a stroke

The FAST test helps spot the three most common symptoms of stroke. But there are other signs that you should always take seriously. These include:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including legs, hands or feet.
  • Difficulty finding words or speaking in clear sentences.
  • Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes.
  • Sudden memory loss or confusion, and dizziness or a sudden fall.
  • A sudden, severe headache.

I hope none of you ever need this, but I’m going to keep posting the warning every year.

Next week on IaDL : New Song? I have to write a new song?

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