Question: I had polio when I was three. I made a pretty good recovery and have lived a full life. I’m 64 years old now and have worked my whole life. These past few years, my leg has gradually been getting weaker. I finally had to stop working this past February. I realize I’m luckier than most, and I was …
Shared peer advice from polio survivors about what works for them.
Share your solution:
News about people who have made significant contributions to the disability community.
Share your story:
How to Broach End-of-Life Discussions
Question: I know it’s really important to have end-of-life discussions sooner rather than later, but I’m a procrastinator by nature and that’s not exactly something I want to have to think about. Where do I even start? Do you have any ideas on how I should approach this? Response from Stephanie T. Machell, PsyD: As no lesser authority than Hank …
How Do I Keep Myself from Feeling Isolated?
Question: My husband, like myself, was a polio survivor. He passed away last summer. I wouldn’t say I’m depressed, but I feel lonely a lot. I have kids and grandkids nearby that still visit regularly. I have couple of good friends who I still get together with for breakfast every few weeks. I’m grateful for the love and support they …
Anxiety Regarding Potential Breathing Issues in the Future
Question: I had bulbar polio when I was three years old. My parents told me I spent time in an iron lung. I am now 70 years old. I don’t currently have any breathing problems. But because of my history, I know it’s a possibility in the future. I know PHI has a whole website dedicated to breathing problems, but …
Facing Guilt Regarding Caregiving Adjustments
PHI: Recently a woman contacted PHI to ask for advice about how to communicate with her spouse that their current living situation was no longer suitable for her. She felt that she was forcing him into assisted living—something he doesn’t want—and was experiencing guilt about this. We asked our regular columnist, Dr. Machell, what advice she would offer. Response from …
Separation of Families Bringing Up Old Memories
PHI: Recently, some polio survivors have mentioned to us that stories in the news related to the policy of family separation along the US/Mexican border, along with images of unaccompanied children in holding facilities, had brought up their own painful memories of being separated from their families as they recovered from polio. PHI asked our regular columnist, Stephanie Machell, PsyD, …
When Will I Get Over Traumatic Childhood Experiences
Question: I’m in my 60s, and still bothered by memories of traumatic childhood experiences. When will I get over this? Response from Rhoda Olkin, PhD: I get asked this question often by clients. The short answer is that people don’t get over things so much as those things lose their power and emotional grip on us. Memories of previous traumas …
Exercise to Maintain Muscle Strength and Consideration of Hospice Care
Question: It seems like every doctor I go to is always recommending exercise to maintain my muscle strength. I am 84 years old. Sorry, but I’ve spent 70 years overachieving. I’m tired now and just want to rest without pain in the time I have left. I think I’m ready to consider hospice care. Response from Rhoda Olkin, PhD: I …
Coming to Terms with Needing a Wheelchair
Question: Recently, I’ve noticed that both my polio leg and my “good” leg have been getting weaker. It’s getting harder and harder to go even short distances (from room to room in my house, for example). I’ve used a cane in the past and, more recently, a walker. My doctor wants me to use a motorized wheelchair, and my children …
Struggles with Living Independently
Question: I am 76 years old and live alone in my own home. I am getting weaker, but I still drive and have an active enough social life that loneliness is not an issue for me. The problem is that keeping up my home is getting harder and harder. I pay a neighborhood boy to do the yardwork, but I …