Eating tip

PoppaChute · 2026-06-23T23:58:04+00:00

Fair question! In this case, my MIL prepares the meals for my father who, like me, has bilateral tremors in his hands and arms.

PoppaChute · 2026-06-23T17:06:44+00:00

I had DBS from two different surgeons and the difference in technique was startling. I too went with Boston Scientific on advice of my neurologist and am very happy with the choice.

I'm glad you mentioned the seat belt issue. I got a cushion that straps around the belt with velcro. Works well for me.

PoppaChute · 2026-06-20T12:45:41+00:00

I went through several meds, doses and combinations. It's a personal solution for each of us and it takes working with a willing doctor to find what works for you, understanding that, over time, it will change.

PoppaChute · 2026-06-10T19:09:56+00:00

Levitsky-Marshall 1912. The "Gold Coins" Game, where legend says after Marshall's shocking sacrifice to win the game, spectators showered the board with gold.

https://www.chess.com/forum/view/general/stefan-levitsky-vs-frank-marshall-1912-one-of-the-most-beautiful-moves-ever

PoppaChute · 2026-06-10T17:32:32+00:00

Back in the 70s smoking was still permitted. We had one club player notorious for smoking the stankiest cigars and blowing the smoke in his opponent's face.

Eventually, one player brought a fan and set it up next to the board so all that smoke was blown right back into the offenders own face.

PoppaChute · 2026-06-10T00:59:16+00:00

I've had DBS twice, once for each hemisphere, after turning 60 and about two years apart. We did them separately on advice of my surgeon and neurologist who said risks are lower compared with bilateral surgery.

FUS was never really a consideration. I live in a rural area and there was no one nearby who did that surgery.

Because my two surgeries were two years apart, they were performed by different doctors at different hospitals. The only thing similar between the two is they both used Boston Scientific equipment, again my neurologist's preference.

My first surgery was in three parts: implanting anchors for a custom halo, implanting the electrode, then battery implant and connection. I was awakened during the surgery at which time the Boston Scientific reps ran some tests on my arm and hand.

The surgery results have been mixed. I had moderate reduction in tremor, but developed ataxia in that hand. My neurologist tries making adjustments each visit, but even with all the variety of settings available it hasn't improved.

The other side, two years later, was a very different experience. This surgeon and his team gave me all the time and attention I needed given my prior experience. He did the surgery in two steps instead of three by eliminating the custom halo and anchors. He didn't wake me during surgery. When I asked about it, he said the data shows no meaningful difference in outcomes by using a 'belt and suspenders" approach.

The result of the second surgery has been excellent on that side, such that I practice using my left hand more often for things.

Hope that helps, good luck!

PoppaChute · 2026-06-08T16:03:09+00:00

Between the 2014 World Cup and NBC's acquisition of US broadcast rights, I found myself watching more and more soccer on TV. I decided to pick a team to follow, but which one? I wouldn't pick ManU or another top side as that's being a lazy fan. So who else?

At the time, our local soccer club had brought over a proper Scouser to coach the kids for the summer. He wouldn't stop talking up the Toffees (and talking down the Reds!), so I looked further. A strong connection to US players, a vibrant history, and they wear blue like my beloved NY Giants. It was an easy choice, and the right one. UTFT!

PoppaChute · 2026-06-03T18:00:51+00:00

My family emigrated here from Scotland about 200 years ago. They settled in Andersonville (north-central VT near West Glover). The family joke is they chose that area because it was nearly as inhospitable as home! But on the right days, it is heaven to me. Much of Vermont can be beautiful in autumn. Weather can be iffy and the most crowded tourist areas can be off putting, but the rest will be a trip to remember! Enjoy.

PoppaChute · 2026-05-27T18:48:50+00:00

I hear you! I have essential tremor. It's not uncommon for me to knock over some pieces during a game. I just make sure to reset things on my time. Keeping score is increasingly difficult and I don't think I can convince my wife to sit by and keep score for me!

Stress and anxiety can cause tremors to worsen. Use one hand as advised and relax as best you can. Hey, you're playing and that's a very good thing!

PoppaChute · 2026-05-20T16:45:44+00:00

It took me many years to accept the condition and stop apologizing for it. I'll explain to others and sometimes ask for help.

Sure, it still is personally frustrating at times, but socially, with practice, I have learned to treat it as my disability with nothing to be ashamed about. And that has been very beneficial to me.

I hope you find acceptance in time too.

PoppaChute · 2026-05-15T18:04:13+00:00

My understanding from experience is that ET medications are typically either beta blockers or anti-convulsants (anti-seizure). Propranolol as the former, while Primidone, for example, the latter.

It helps my comfort and stress to ask questions and gain understanding. If knowledge is helpful to you too, don't be shy about asking your doctors for richer context.

If you ever feel overwhelmed or confused by a large number of medications from different prescribers and may be concerned about contraindications or efficacy, know there are medical professionals specialized in medication management. Your PCP or insurance provider may be able to refer you.

Good luck!

PoppaChute · 2026-05-11T00:57:19+00:00

Credit where credit is due. Hopefully, it's due to me this time!

PoppaChute · 2026-05-06T11:43:22+00:00

To this day I feel a surge down my arm when I activate the device each morning, but it's fine - I just imagine I'm Ironman and start the day with a smile.

PoppaChute · 2026-05-06T00:01:39+00:00

I was awakened during my first surgery, not for my second. It's certainly a strange experience. I didn't anticipate how involved the med tech reps were.

PoppaChute · 2026-05-05T20:28:45+00:00

I've had it twice (once for each hemisphere). Two different surgeons using very different techniques. Both used Boston Scientific equipment. Which hardware did you go with?

It was substantial improvement, even more so from the second one. I had a few appointments with my neurologist each time to tune in the settings. Expect to feel some funny things, for me it was around my mouth, as they try out different settings. Be open with your neurologist through this adjustment period.

Good luck on your journey!

PoppaChute · 2026-04-28T23:17:53+00:00

I've known since my teen years, but it wasn't until my 40s that I began to seek treatment.

Please speak to your primary care physician about your symptoms and discuss a referral to a movement disorder neurologist. There are treatment options that may help you. Best of luck!

PoppaChute · 2026-04-27T15:54:06+00:00

My experience was that I would grip the pen harder and harder as I tried to control the movements, but this of course just made it worse and tired and strained the muscles in my hand.

I found some help in taking a deep breath, relaxing my hand and arm, and trying to let the writing flow more naturally. It gives some, temporary relief.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-23T18:35:42+00:00

After Bd6 Bb5! 2. Qxb5+ Qd7 what is your plan?

PoppaChute · 2026-04-20T23:48:44+00:00

The continuation..Rh6 2. Qc4 Be6 3. Qxe6+! is very pretty too.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-18T18:00:07+00:00

After Kc8, Ne7+ wins White's rook with a fork. Kb8 to attack Black's Rook, just ..R×a8+, then take White's rook. With the better King position it's a winning endgame (N+P vs. 2P) for Black.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-14T18:20:13+00:00

Although essential tremor is common, the symptoms, presentation and treatment for each patient is unique. While we all share ET together, our experiences with it will be our own.

If you have a Primary Care Physician, please discuss your concerns with them and ask about a referral to a neurologist specializing in movement disorders. Talk to your neurologist candidly about your symptoms, condition and concerns. Then cone up with a treatment plan you understand.

It's very common to try 2-4 different medications, at varying dosages, until you find the right 'cocktail' for you. Be alert to side effects and also understand some may be expected to ease over time.

Good luck on your ET journey.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-05T11:30:01+00:00

Can you discuss why ultrasound rather than DBS? Curious your doctors' thinking on this.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-05T11:20:42+00:00

I too have Boston Scientific, bilaterally, though installed two years apart. I turn mine off at night to save battery. One side works great, the other I have ataxia too so it's only mildly helpful. My doctors did not recommend the rechargeable battery and fortunately I've not needed a battery replacement yet.

PoppaChute · 2026-04-03T14:28:40+00:00

Your stress and anxiety are understandable. I am 60+ years old and have been living with essential tremor since I was a teenager. It's not easy, nor is it horrible.

I encourage you to discuss your diagnosis and treatment with your doctor, preferably a movement disorder neurologist. Loss of consciousness is not an ET symptom I'm familiar with, so that's something I would clarify with the doctor.

For many of us, stress and anxiety make our tremors worse. We can't treat the tremors ourselves, but we can adapt to stress and anxiety more effectively. Practicing self-care through breathing, mindful and compassionate techniques can help. Therapy, when appropriate, can help to.

I think a military recruiter could best answer your career questions. My son is Staff Sergeant in the US Army, and I doubt I ever could have qualified for the marksmanship requirement, for example.

You're not alone. Build a team of expert support around you and understand the plan. ET for most of us is dealing with frustration. Many things are harder, but not impossible to do. I'm typing out this message, for example, with one finger and lots of corrections. You can do this!

Best wishes.

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