Reflection on GBS
In order to deepen my knowledge on Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS), I decided to read various patient stories on the The GBS | CIDP Foundation International website. On this website, they share many stories in hopes of increasing awareness and understanding of the conditions. The main story that stuck out to me was the story about Ariana, who is a four year old girl who has Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS).
I chose to read many patient stories on the website because I am interested in learning about people's personal experiences with GBS. From what we have learned in class, GBS can affect people in different ways. By reading multiple stories, I got to see the uniqueness of each person's experience with GBS. Ariana's story stuck out to me because she was diagnosed at such a young age. She was diagnosed in Gibraltar, which is a territory on the south coast of spain. I was interested in her story because she was the first child to be diagnosed with GBS in Gibraltar.
In class we have learned that GBS is usually preceded by an infection or stomach issues. In Ariana's case, the doctors initially thought she has a severe stomach ache. Since no child has been diagnosed with GBS in the area, it took a while for them to diagnose her. She underwent weeks of testing and unbearable pain until finally Spanish and UK medical teams confirmed her diagnosis. Ariana received medical treatment and therapy to address muscle weakness and nerve damage, which we have learned are some of the main symptoms associated with GBS. In her story, they mentioned that music gave her peace and allowed for her to escape from the pain. I found it interesting that music made her feel better. Her parents were the ones who discovered this because they knew she had previously loved music. This goes to show how essential it is to include family members in the treatment process. Throughout her story, they talk about how much support was given to Ariana by her parents. Support is so essential in one's recovery. Although Ariana had an abundant amount of support, it is our job, as occupational therapists, to also provide this support incase it is not present.
I highly recommend this resource as part of other's learning process. This story stood out to me among the many stories due to her diagnosis being given at such a young age. I found it inspiring to read about how much support Ariana has gotten in her recovery process. I feel that by reading this resource, others can learn more about GBS and how it affects individuals uniquely. Reading personal stories allows for further knowledge to be obtained about a condition or diagnosis that one may not learn in class.
Here's the link if you want to check it out!
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