Replies to This Discussion

ModeratorPermalink Reply by Ninibeth Ramirez on October 9, 2010 at 9:27pm

In my case the first year was really hard dealing with my speech problems, changing words, remember things, writing and reading.. My speech pathologist used to gave me spelling and writing skills. She was my teacher, and sends me home assignments. I take a year and a half speech therapy. Then I could go back to college.

This December 20 I will turned out 11 years of my avm hemorrhage. Still I have problems with my speech in some ways even though it is not as noticeable as before. When people talk too fast I do not understand or remember only part of the conversations. Sometimes I still change some words. For example I'm talking and thinking white and mansion black without realizing it. But the worst are my writing skills as on Spanish and English. it is hard but we must learn from our strengths how to deal with our difficulties.

I do understand you and am here supporting you.. I am glad that I have someone that can understand what I went through.

Take Care
Ninibeth

ModeratorPermalink Reply by Louisa on October 10, 2010 at 7:06am

Lesley, I also have the same issues, aphasia and short term memory. I had my AVM brain bleed almost 3 years ago. I went for Speech/Language therapy for 18 months which really did help. I got through to be able to read to about a 6 year old level. At this point, I still have difficulty reading (reading your and Ninabeth's blog for instance). My daughter reads my mail, so I don't misunderstand understand what was written. I wish AVM Survivors Network had "Spell Check" because I have difficult spelling, so if I do in my reply, please understand.

What I've done about reading a book is that I get them on CD and listen to them. When having a conversation, there are words I can't remember..that frustrates me.

However, although this can be frustrating, I am very thankful that we are alive. Whether I'm not sure that I will be perfect again, I am grateful. Take care and keep trying!

ModeratorPermalink Reply by Ninibeth Ramirez on October 10, 2010 at 1:53pm

Lesley, I use spelling check when I am writing. Few weeks ago I had an embarrassment situation with a college professor. She was telling me some things I needed to add to my proposed research. I did write a wrong word and my professor mocked me in front of other students. I shed some tears and did not know what to say. I decided to stay quiet but I felt very sad. So I try when I am writing not let other people see. You should not feel bad because you are not the only one this.

Ninibeth

ModeratorPermalink Reply by Lesley S, Queensland on October 11, 2010 at 4:53am

Ninibeth, thank you for your replies, I really appreciate them. It is so good to have other people understanding what goes on with speech problems. I am so very sorry that you had that situation at college.........it's just awful that someone would be so very rude to you; the problem is THEIRS, not yours my friend, they have very small minds and take themselves far too seriously!! I have had a couple of very rude comments in shops when I'm trying to tell them what I need to get but you's is just terrible. Just remember that you are a wonderful person and doing so very well, especially at studying...I can't imagine how difficult that would be. Again, many thanks, take care and God Bless.

ModeratorPermalink Reply by Lesley S, Queensland on October 11, 2010 at 5:07am

Hello there Twin!! Thanks so much for your replies. We do seem to be 'twins' don't we? You and Ninbeth have helped me a lot as it's so good to know we are not alone in this area. I guess I have expected to recover quicker than is possible at this stage. Of course, I am so very grateful to be alive and to have found this site and the wonderful survivors here, however, I have learnt that I am more impatient these days; before surgers I had lots more patience!!
I loved you saying that you wish AVM Survivors had 'spell check'.....had a great laugh and I agree with you there, it would certainly make life a lot easier!! Thanks again 'Twin', look forward to chatting with you again soon. Love and God Bless.