United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Inspired by the members of this group sharing their thoughts, concerns and experiences I have asked my GP to be referred to a consultant. Although this will not be an OBPI specialist (they're a bit thin on the ground in the UK) I want to find out what injuries I have and what the likely impacts of these are for me in the future.

I am beginning to realise that it's more than my arm that is affected. The ribs on my left side protrude and were more noticeable when I was younger (and had less 'cushioning'). I have had pains in my lower back recently and have had sciatica for some years, which causes numbness in my left foot. I thought this was a separate issue but now realise that it is because my posture is skewed and my body is slightly twisted that I am getting back problems. I hadn't noticed that my gait and posture were so bad, although my husband has mentioned it. When I am tense my left (OBPI) shoulder rises up almost to my ear. I generally hold that arm tense and maybe that's causing some effects. Hopefully the consultant will be able to enlighten me as to what is going on and if I can improve the situation in any way. If I could find solutions to the discomfort in my arm and shoulder that'll be great.

For years (55) I've just got on with it and put up with things. I've been determined and done the things that I can. I just wanted members to know that you have inspired me to realise that I deserve more than this - the best that I can do for myself.

YAYYYYY Chrissie!! You've gotten "It". It's never too late! never too late to learn something new too...I was always afraid of the computer until age 65 when I took classes at our Senior Center, then I found UBPN and all this R-E-L-I-E-F, support and new Family. Start saving to come to UBPN CAMP 2010!

Hugs,
Carolyn J
LOBPI/70++++;)

Well done on making the first move Chrissie!!! I hope you find the answers you are looking for and that the doctors can make you more comfortable!
Where in England are you if you dont mind me asking?

Hi Janny,

I live in the south east, not too far from Heathrow.

Keep us updated, Chrissie! You are soooo "getting it"..nope, it's never to late.

Hugs from across the pond,
Carolyn J
LOBPI

Cool. Im waaaay up north in Scotland, near Aberdeen
Its a shame you arent close to Gatwick as we will be travelling through there in September with long waits there and back. We couldve met for a coffee and compared war wounds lol

Hi all, I'm new to the sight but I'm awfully glad I found it. My grandson, Matthew, has BP and my daughter and I had been looking for some sort of support/info group for a while now. I'd like some info on the UBPN camp Carolyn mentioned, maybe we can attend. Thank you.

If you look at the Camp Board you will see past info on camps (2007 being the most recent). The next one is set for 2010 in October (so far), but no state has been decided yet. The Camp is usually held every 2 years and moves from state to state. The last one was in Auburn, WA. It was great!

http://ubpn.org/messageboard/forum.jspa?forumID=65

Marieke 33, LOBPI

Do you know when more information will be determined on the camp in 2010? Ive always wanted to go and would really like to get involved and help out.

Thanks,

Evan/18/LOBPI

Closer to the actual date.. a few months before usually (or more, but the actual sign up is closer to the date). Info will come out when they know.