living with neuropathy at 25
The results where unfortunately concerning as it showed I have no blood flow from my shin down. This is not good. Continuing to lack blood flow in your legs while having neuropathy can lead to serious health complications such as the development of ulcers, gangrene, and even amputation. Without proper blood flow, the tissues in your legs may not receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen needed for healing, leading to a higher risk of infections and other complications. It is crucial to seek medical attention and treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and improve the overall health and quality of life.
To make matters worse, the cost of treatment is a staggering $7000. I’m sitting here, tears rolling. down my face. I just had my 25th birthday. It’s been over two years living with the neuropathy that resulted from a neurological episode I had while taking a clinical trial for some medications in hopes to shrink the brain stem tumor I was diagnosed with in 2019.
It’s frustrating that i’ve already spent thousands of dollars on a treatment like Sanexas at Kalaheo Wellness Center, especially when it is the only neuropathy treatment available in Hawaii. However, the investment in my health is critical to my well-being & quality of life.
Sanexas is a non-invasive treatment that uses electrical stimulation to activate the body’s natural healing process. The machine emits low-frequency electrical impulses that stimulate the nerves in the affected area, increasing blood flow and improving nerve function. This treatment has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility, and restore sensation to the affected nerves. The vitamin injections that Kalaheo Wellness Center provided are also beneficial as they can help improve nerve health and overall well-being. While it may be a costly investment, the potential benefits of Sanexas and vitamin injections can make a significant difference in managing neuropathy and improving your quality of life.
It is infuriating that Medicare does not cover any costs for neuropathy treatment. Neuropathy affects so many lives and can be a debilitating condition that impacts a person’s ability to work, function, and enjoy life. It is depressing to think that there are people just like me who suffer from neuropathy and cannot afford the treatment they need in order to heal. As a government-funded healthcare program, Medicare should provide coverage for essential treatments like neuropathy, which can improve a person’s quality of life and potentially reduce the need for other medical interventions down the road. It is disheartening to see so many people struggling to access the care they need and deserve.
For some time I slowed down posting much about my health journey. But now, I feel the need to speak up about what I’ve been going through. From being diagnosed with a brain tumor to neuropathy, I’ve experienced both Western and naturopathic medicine.
Three years ago, being surrounded by God’s protective angels- I moved out to Kaua’i alone. It has shaped my life in ways I never knew possible. Now, I feel it’s time to speak out about what I’m going through as a young person with neuropathy, seeking a cure and hoping to help others who may be going through similar health struggles.
At the beginning of my health journey, I was scared to talk about it publicly. When my GoFundMe campaign was launched, I had people accusing me of lying and stalking me, which only added to my fear. I found it too difficult to share my story, but as time passed, I realized that I wanted to believe in my voice and speak out against the pain of neuropathy and having a brain tumor. I want to connect with others who are going through a similar situation, find answers, and support each other. Now, I am ready to open up and share my story without fear and stigma.
The news about my feet was overwhelming, and the thought of it worsening if I didn’t take care of it soon was terrifying. It made me question whether I should have gone to Hawaii in the first place, wondering if the numbness could have been avoided. It was easy to fall into a negative mindset, but I reminded myself that I couldn’t change the past. Instead, I had to focus on what I could do in the present to take care of myself and my health. That meant seeking medical attention and following the recommended treatment plan. It wasn’t easy, but I knew that I had to prioritize my well-being above all else.
As I reflected on my journey from Sioux Falls to Kauai, I realized that despite the challenges I faced, there were also positives that I could focus on. One of the biggest changes in my life was accepting Jesus Christ into my heart and being reborn. This was a profound experience that gave me strength and hope during difficult times.
Living in Hawaii also exposed me to many surreal experiences that I would never have had if I had stayed in Sioux Falls. I learned to appreciate the beauty of nature and to live in harmony with it. I also learned to live on my own and with other people, which helped me develop valuable life skills.
Although my feet were causing me problems, I realized that the journey I had been on had taught me so much. I felt like I had grown as a person and become stronger and more resilient. I knew that God had a plan for me, and I trusted that things would work out in the end.
Focusing on the things that are important to me has been a game-changer. I have prioritized my relationship with God above everything else, and it has given me a sense of peace and stability that I never knew before. I have also been working on self-love and loving others, and it has helped me to build healthier and more positive relationships with those around me. Pursuing my photography career has been a dream for me, and I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. Saving money has been a top priority, and it has given me a sense of security and freedom. Being well-balanced in life means taking care of myself physically, mentally, and emotionally, and it has helped me to become more resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges. Overall, focusing on these priorities has helped me to create a fulfilling and meaningful life for myself, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me.
Love, Rae
Rachel Rich
https://medium.com/@cinimist/living-with-neuropathy-at-25-dfa03fc3710e