[NJenn]

Well, here we all are again....

As a re-introduction, I'm Nicki. This post is similar to the one that Swift posted over at CN (nice post Swift!!), not for self indulgence, but just to let you know where I'm coming from and what I bring to the table both personally and professionally.

27 (and like Swift, wondering how long I can call myself "young")

Spastic Diplegic CP, with only minimal tone in upper body that doesn't impact function.

Using a wheelchair for almost all distances outside of the home, and walking inside.

Struggling with the usual issues related to CP and aging-- increased pain and fatigue, concern about what's to come, but leaning to take it in stride.

I recently relocated to Central Massachusetts from Michigan, to take a job as a health policy analyst-- specifically long term care (and especially issues surrounding nursing home transition and diversion). I can usually answer questions regarding Medicare, and some Medicaid questions if I have time to research your state. However, I prefer not to speak specifically about my work as much of it is tied to the state.

Recently, my biggest hurdle has been repetitive stress injury in all major joints of my right arm. Yes, they all crapped out at once-- wrist, elbow and shoulder. this happened because I bought a handcycle and "went to town" 20-30 miles a week without proper weight training ahead of time. I am rehabing agressively, and spending my weekends hibernating as both driving and wheelchair use agravates my pain. I am getting better, though, and am at about 75%. In response to all of this I've started using Dragon Naturally Speaking 9 voice dictation software, am getting power-assist wheels for my chair (E-Motions from Frank Mobility), and am actively exploring reduced effort steering for my car, but am reluctant to shell out the cash.

So, areas of expertise for me include: the aforementioned policy stuff, wheelchair and adaptive equipment, my own personal experience with aging and current CP research.

Like Swift, I'm here more as a resource, than as one who needs support. I lurk more than I post, though, mostly because I just get sick of talking about CP sometimes.

Take care all,

Nicki

[CPchick]

Good to "see" you Nicki! I have been missing the CP board.

[swift]

Nice to see you again!

Can I say a big 'oops...' and 'ouch!' though - that really doesn't sound pleasant (but who am I to talk about pacing - I'm not exactly the world's best example there! ).

Take care,
Swift

[Mangosmom]

I just wanted to drop in for a sec and say Hey Nicki. Been way too long and I wanted to "wave" at you from the kiddie section.

Carrie.

[Tracy Sheppard]

I had to drop in and say hello to you too Nicki. I haven't seen you in ages. Miss hearing all about things. Glad to see you around again.
Hugs
Tracy

[NJenn]

Hi Tracey, Carrie, Swift and Erin!

I've been thinking about you all and wondering about you.

Erin-- is it summer vacation for you yet?!?!

Swift--See post over in CN. Sure you have a thing or two to say about that.

Tracey-- Has it been over a year since Meg's surgery? I saw the pic of her standing supported on your website. She looks great.

Carrie-- How's Amanda doing with school? How's her pump? Still thinking about one for myself, but my new Boston docs are less enthusiastic than the Michigan docs. Shoulda jumped while I had the chance.

Has anyone heard from Katherine (JellyRJFan). Have been wondering how she's been, and if she ever got her chair.

Take care all. I'm actually at work on this beautiful Sunday, and should get back to it (long story).

Nic

[CPchick]

Spring break has just started for me! Yay, the joys of living in the southern hemisphere!

As for Katherine, I have seen her on AIM occasionally but she is always idle or away.

[NJenn]

Hey Erin,

Next time you sign onto IM will you please send her a quick message with the link to this board? I'd do it, but I don't have her IM. She'll get it when she eventually signs on. If she's anything like me, she's on IM when her computer's on, but just has it set to look like she's away. I do that all the time so that creepies don't talk to me

[CPchick]

Sure! In fact, I'll do it right now.

[Katherine]

Here I am!

Thanks for the link, Erin

It's good to "see" everyone again. Y'all wouldn't believe how busy I am this week, but I will post a full update as soon as I get the chance.

I'm still slugging it out with my insurance company over my chair. I'm on my last appeal right now, so we'll see how that goes.