Manuela's interview
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How did all start?
It started a couple of weeks prior to become paralyzed, when I hag a GI bug that caused fever and diarrhea
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, it was diagnosed at the ER, when I was rushed there with an ambulance, after my paralysis became evident. The neurologist on duty has confirmation when, the next day, I had a spinal tap.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Neurology and ICU
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Physical therapy
What have been your biggest difficulties?
At the beginning, breathing (I had to be put on a ventilator), swallowing and coughing
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My family and friends helped a great deal in the recovery, their presence gave me great strength and motivation
What things have you stopped doing?
Nothing, I came back to a full life. I actually became a mother a year and a half after being discharged from the hospital
What do you think about the future?
It’d be nice to have a cure for GBS
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
2012, when I gave birth
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Nothing, I was lucky enough to go back to a full life, despite my condition being very serious when o got to the hospital
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
I’m thankful for being alive
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Never give up, sometimes GBS can get worse before it gets better. Never underestimate yourself and your strength
