He is in control!
He is in Control Indeed!
Have you ever come across someone who has a “remote control” to manage their brain activity?
Meet LB senior Goh Kwee Lam, 70, who underwent the Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery recently in the year 2022 to manage his Parkinson’s disease.
Looking at the steady hands during his pottery class, or his effortless strolling during the brisk walks organised by the LB AAC @ Ang Mo Kio 318, one could never tell that he is a person with the disease that is known to cause tremors and unsteadiness in its patients.
“When I get overwhelmed by my surroundings, I use the remote control to reduce the electric pulses in the brain.
“On the other hand, when I feel weak or slow, I’d fire up my electric pulses for me to buck up!
“It is most convenient and assuring for me to know that I am in control of my body, no matter what,” shared Goh in earnest.
He added that it also amuses him to see people’s reactions whenever he breaks the news that he is battling Parkinson’s to date!
“They would often be bemused that I function quite normally – I am very active, plus I join in the daily morning exercise routines at the AAC and also join all their physical activities!” exclaimed Goh adding that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s back in 2015.
The Diagnosis
He reminisced on how he realised his movements were lagging and the tremors that he was experiencing which prompted him to get himself checked at a nearby polyclinic, where he was referred to a specialist later at a hospital.
Goh’s nagging suspicions were confirmed when his doctor diagnosed him with Parkinson’s disease and was immediately put on medications and physiotherapy to manage it.
“While I was struggling with the reality of living with this crippling body, I was also feeling the financial pressure. They increased the medication dosages gradually and it was getting more and more expensive,” sighed Goh who was retired then from his technician supervisor job.
Unable to continue his recovery process with such a mental load, he asked his doctor for other viable options and was presented with the DBS surgery as a solution.
“I was told that they would crack open my skull and implant a device in my brain that would send electric signals to control my body movement.
“I was excited about the procedure! So much so that I didn’t even think of being afraid of the consequences, which stood at 50/50. I didn’t event consult my family members before saying yes to the doctor,” he explained.
The DBS surgery, while common, is a risky procedure which involves planting electrodes in the brain, connected to a stimulator device. Similar to a heart pacemaker, this neurostimulator uses electric pulses to regulate the patient’s brain activity. This neurostimulator is controlled externally by the patient.
Was He Ready?
Preparation for the surgery took about a year for Goh as the medical team had to monitor his health around the clock and track his progress during his physiotherapy sessions.
“I had to undergo multiple check-ups regularly, and they would take videos of me for them to check thoroughly. I was told that my health had to be at an optimum level, so much so if I had developed a cough or flu hours before the procedure, the surgery itself would be postponed until I am well enough!” he exclaimed.
The 8-hour-long arduous and complicated surgery breathed a new life to Goh who now has a better sense of control over his own body.
He was told to rest for a month post-surgery, and was given a special card that would allow him to bypass metal detectors by security teams. The doctor did not give him any other restrictions but advised him to be extra cautious with controlling the neurotransmitter and assured him that they are available any time to assist.
Life at the AAC
“I have learnt to appreciate my life and my body more. You would never know how it feels when you couldn’t even control your own hands and feet, until it hits you. I work hard more than ever now to keep myself fit as I do not want to lose this momentum of being independently mobile. I actively join their brisk walking activities and also underwent a full course of Strong Knees & Joint Meridian Therapy which made a huge difference to my agility,” said Goh who joined the AAC in July this year.
Despite this short duration spent here, Goh was surprised that his condition is improving greatly than expected!
“But I also know not to be too hard on my body. I balanced the physical activities with the crafty and artsy activities organised by the AAC. My hand-eye coordination is better, my memory is not as bad as before, and I feel both my body and mind is being stimulated with these activities,” he shared, happy that he is able to take life by the horns, while living with Parkinson’s .
He also encourages other seniors who are currently battling with illnesses to join their nearby AACs and enjoy themselves in a safe and conducive environment.
“Don’t isolate yourself! You must be part of a community, feel belonged, and happy, especially when you have your own personal battles. The staff would be more than happy to assist you. You will also benefit from their diverse programmes. Just remember to consult your doctor first before joining any strenuous activities!” advised Goh.
We hope that these stories would inspire you to reach out and touch the lives of others.
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