Ian Franks is still writing 50 years after starting his first job as a journalist. And he has had to contend with MS, epilepsy, and having to use a wheelchair.
epilepsy
My ‘Big Brother’ – but neither TV programme nor from 1984 book
Ian Franks takes a time out from his usual blog to remember his big brother who died, as a result of having epilepsy, 30 years ago. Besides having MS, Ian also has epilepsy.
Familial Connections Cannot Be Coincidences, Can They?
Life can be really strange and not always fathomable to someone like me who is not blessed with neither medical nor scientific qualifications. On a purely technical basis, I am just an ordinary guy. What I do know about diseases, illnesses and conditions – call them what you will – comes from my personal experience … Continue reading Familial Connections Cannot Be Coincidences, Can They?
Do MS and Epilepsy share a link? I have both
By the time I went through various tests that led to being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 14 years ago, epilepsy had already been part of my life since the age of 19. No-one mentioned any link. The neurologist's words still ring in my ears. Having already told me that MS was the diagnosis, he said: “I want you to … Continue reading Do MS and Epilepsy share a link? I have both
Memory of exact date of MS diagnosis
Memory is a strange thing and seems to work, or not work, in the most mysterious of ways, just like the concept of God. My earliest recollection, believe it or not, was as a baby. I can recall being left outside a shop, in my pram, while my mum went inside. Now that is unlikely … Continue reading Memory of exact date of MS diagnosis
Fear is real as benefit change countdown continues
Time marches on and the calendar pages turn ever closer towards the date when the UK’s Disabled Living Allowance (DLA) is phased out for working age people1 and replaced with Personal Independence Payment (PIP). DLA recipients who have not yet been invited to apply for PIP are fearful of the day when the phone … Continue reading Fear is real as benefit change countdown continues
Epilepsy drug being tested for multiple sclerosis use
News that the generic drug phenytoin, used as an anti-convulsant to treat epilepsy, is being tested as a treatment for certain types of problems associated with multiple sclerosis, caught me by surprise. Although I am not a doctor or scientist, I can speak with some authority about this drug because I was prescribed it for … Continue reading Epilepsy drug being tested for multiple sclerosis use
