Colm Murray Documentary

On Monday, there was a documentary on Colm Murray, and even though I was conflicted as to whether to watch it or not, due to mum having been diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease just before Christmas. I was surprised how good his speech was, as apart from his speech being a tad slower than the norm, and also he was quite articulate - only stumbled over a couple of words, whereas my mum sounds half drunk most of the time now, however mum has said she knew this past year that this is what she had, but didn't want to be told.

Despite, the lack of hope MND has, as there are no treatments available, other than management of the condition. I have heard people say they are shocked at Colm Murray's deterioration over the last year or so, whereas from where I am standing, I see his progress as being relatively slow. Colm definitely has the right attitude, which with a condition such as MND, I believe you have have to have, which is he said that he believed that at some time over the course of his lifetime there would be a cure. Personally, I currently don't have that hope in relation to my mum, however for now I need to accept what is, rather than going into a blind hope - hope may come later, but for now, I am where I am in relation to coming to terms with what has occurred over the last month. In many ways, it feels as if it has been much longer than the 5 weeks since I got the news, and am feeling a lot stronger than I was, although am sure there will be ups and downs on this leg of my journey in life. I am learning just how little people know about MND (a couple of colleagues had work commented that there was now medication available to slow down the progression, I pointed out that the 1 medication that is available only extends life by a maximum of 6 months) - I feel as if I've always known about it - Stephen Hawkins being an exception to the norm, having had MND for close to 50 years - 50% of people with MND pass away within 14 months of diagnosis. Then about 10 years ago, a work colleague had MND, and she deteriorated quite quickly.

Having said all that, it is inspiring to hear of someone who does have that faith who is going through the same condition that my mum has. His attitude is the attitude that survivors in all walks of life tend to have. He is hopeful that progress in research can and will be made, despite how little is really known about MND. Colm is truly inspirational.

In love and light

Mystique