My New Friend, Freddie
I’ve never had much success with inflatables. However, Freddie is a little different – he’s got structure and he’s not so wobbly. If you’ve sat on one of those donut blow ups, you would have noticed [...]
University of Tasmania Relationship Wellbeing Survey
Researchers at the University of Tasmania would love to hear from women (and their partners) who experience various forms pf persistent pelvic pain. The research is aimed at increasing the understanding of the impact of persistent pelvic pain [...]
Venezia!
There was no rushing to catch transport! And the sounds of Venice are soothing and happy. In the morning we woke to the sounds of the local's footsteps and the sounds of them working along the canal. Local chatter in the street, dogs barking and of course, the church bells. Sounds impact a person with a chronic illness. My mind was at peace, it felt rested, all was calming and gentle.
My GPADD18 Presentation
I'll deem my efforts a success. I managed. I learned a bundle. I made something of the chronic pain experience. And I believe I provided some insight. I arrived at Yarra Valley Lodge on Thursday night and left Sunday early morning to manage the presentation, question time and a short attendance at the dinner on Saturday evening. So that's 3 night's sleep (and one nap Saturday afternoon) to get the focus I needed, and so I could appear in a way that I felt reflected my most Soula self. The presentation (below) took weeeeeeeeks to put together! Something that would have taken me a few short days previously. That might sound alot of sacrifice to many of you but with this approach, my pain levels remained low (if not off) and on my return to Queenscliff, I could resume my part time work and the week ahead as per normal. It worked, I'm pacing up! I do have a niggle though. We're not learning fast enough. We're not listening hard enough. I left disappointed I hadn't achieved enough.
Printmaking packs for pain management
Art is not only distracting but I believe the benefit is in the expression, making something, getting frustration out of the body. Everything you need to make a linocut is in these $99 packs. I've not included paper as that part is a very personal preference. You can choose textures, colours, mix up paper to make a patch work, make cards, print on fabric, etc. The purpose of these packs is not so much about the patterns but rather about the process of carving. It's also to provide all the materials if you've never done printmaking before. Once you have these basic materials (carving tools, barren and roller), you only need to source lino and ink which you can find at most art shops!
Managing chronic pain: Different approaches to a complex issue
(Article from the RACGP website) Neelima Choahan 26/07/2018 11:36:34 AM Chronic pain affects one in five Australians. newsGP spoke with a patient and a GP about some of the best ways to tackle the situation. Soula Mantalvanos, who has lived with chronic pain [...]
Pain Revolution Names PainTrain a ‘Best Resource’
PainTrain has followed Pain Revolution very closely over the years and its this research with Soula's experience that has driven the PainTrain concept. We love having your support all the way Soula! Your voice is so needed and loved, and your [...]
My Health Record vs PainTrain My Health Summary
Um, actually, they aren't in competition. They are two very different online resources. There's no turning a blind eye or choosing to stay away from this technology change as it is affecting you right now and there is a decision you need to make within three months about your autogenerated account on My Health Record. Are you staying in or opting out? I opted out. And not because I think My Health Record is a poor concept – it's a great idea! Remember I've made a type of online health summarising resource myself because I realise how important it is to organise your health information and communicate more efficiently with your health team/s.
Fragile – I’ve hit a bump in the road
But I'm sure it'll all pan out ok. So much for looking after myself and preparing for potential weight gain as I approach my half decade milestone. The weight I've lost has potentially caused a shift in the position of my implants.
GPs Are Your Patient G.P.S
(Image from my book, Art & Chronic Pain – A Self Portrait) Navigating the horrific pain journey is complex enough. Patients need GPs who steer them to appropriate treaters via the shortest route – our GPs are our GPS! Do [...]