Business owner who struggles to walk and talk

I own a Hair Salon and Training Academy in Kent and was diagnosed with HM just 6 weeks ago September 2011 after a very long and worrying summer of being treated for a stroke, then told I had M.S then Drs were unsure and thought I had a very rare condition where there was only one other case in the country.
My symptoms started after a major headache in July where I thought I was going to die, after suffering from migraines for the past 10 years this was totally different as the pain was in the back of my head.
I recovered being left with symptoms of confusion and forgetfulness which I had experienced 18months earlier after a 4x4 had driven into the back of me also being left with a weak right side (arm) pins and needles and numbness and whiplash. 2 weeks later I was rushed to hospital with suspected stroke I lost the ability to walk and talk. I spent a week in Hospital where I had a CT scan, numerous blood tests and approx 8 unsuccessful attempts at a lumber punch. I was discharged from hospital the same as I went in with the information that I had not had a stroke. WHAT WAS IT I HAD WAS THE QUESTION !!!!!!!!!!!
I made an 80% recovery and thought it may be a viral thing but was rushed back into hospital 10 days later as I had collapsed like a rag doll at home.
After 8 more days in hospital and more tests and a successful lumber punch I was diagnosed after seeing a Neurologist 6 weeks ago as an outpatient as having H.M my symptoms are full body paralysis and my auras are right sided weakness with slow slurred speech. My internal functions (bladder and bowels) are also affected in addition to the hot and cold moments.
I deal with the general public, heads of school and local authorities on a daily basis who either think I am drunk or stupid by the way I talk and I constantly have to explain that I am struggling with my speech at the moment. I also need the aid of a walking stick on occasions. The medication so far that I have tried had poisoned my body so am due to see my neurologist next week for the next batch but am currently taking 100mg of Topomax and an Aspirin a day which keep the headaches generally at bay.
I rule my life not H.M rule me I make the most of my good days and still guide to very successful business' which we have just won The Best Training Provider Award in Medway and my company has only been going for 3 years. This is a dreadful illness and yes, I agree with you Tee we need to make people aware so I have already been on the case and contacted my local paper.
MY GLASS IS ALWAYS HALF FULL but I do shed the odd tear.

Firstly welcome and congratulations on the award

But I am sorry to read that you are suffering with this - HM is not a pleasant experience at all

Its interesting that quite a few have got this as a result of a car accident - make you wonder if the nerve damage is linked.....

I am pleased that you have got the diagnosis as you say that half the battle - from here its a a matter of finding a management plan that works for you. What medication are you going to trial next - or do you not know until next week? Topamax is great when it works, but can have some serious side effects

Although, I am now a strong believer that medication alone cannot manage this - trigger avoidance and life style changes are needed.

Have you been able to identify any of your triggers yet? Have a look at this list - it may spark a few possibilities

https://migrainetalk.forumotion.co.uk/t330-types-of-triggers

Have you tried any of the alternative stuff? I have a good response to Indian Head Massage and magnesium.

tee x

Hi Tee,I am trying alternative treatment at the moment, I saw a doctor who took me off all medication and has set me up with a fantastic Physiotherpist. I do still have set backs but my sppech and balance is no longer constant. I find that directly after physio my speech goes along with my balance but within 2 days I return to my normal self. So at least I am now getting a taste of normality.
My physio is on a weekly basis.

Thats interesting - have they said why or how this approach works?

physio that I am receiving works on the muscles of my neck and releases any problems that are there eg whiplash. I have also messaged you regarding your request for HM sufferers

I am pleased you have found something to work for you - long may it last

I have emailed you the details x