For a year an independent career woman explored deeper questions surrounding the causes of the pins-and-needles sensations she had experienced which culminated in paralysis within 72 hours.
Sirene Paulse (43) has just launched a book on this painful quest entitled 72 Hours Changed My Entire Life.
“My book is a little about my upbringing, in which I openly share a ‘secret’ most people don’t know about and may be shocked to learn,” she explained. “It also takes in the unfolding of my career, how my life took shape when my Superman stepped into it, and how my life was turned upside down with the paraplegic diagnosis as a result of a rare autoimmune disease called Neuromyelitis optica [NMO].”
NMO, also known as Devic’s disease, is a rare condition in which the immune system damages the spinal cord and nerves of the eyes (optic nerves).
Paulse, who is married with two daughters, was born in Somerset West and grew up in Macassar, where she also completed her schooling, and pursued a BCom in Marketing. She worked for Telkom for 24 years as store manager, but was medically boarded last September.
As for what motivates her, Paulse shared staying busy through rehabilitation, study and outdoor activities. “And I’m getting back into the kitchen, my happy place. I’ve shown improvement in all my physical challenges. I’m able to do more for myself from my chair. I have a supportive family and friends. I’ve received the best medical treatment, and have had no relapse since the second major attack, which left me a paraplegic.”
Paulse related how she had gathered her family, calling them one by one, and explained to them how the manner in which family life was played out was about to change.
“It was one of the hardest things for me to do, transferring mom duties to my kids,” she said.
Her biggest motivation for writing a book was to consolidate a measure of control over her own situation, testament to the power of the mind as a major influencer of one’s quality of life.
“My kids and my husband believed in me and prayed with me, and through them I have never given up,” she said. “I had to convince myself that whatever this was, all of it would make perfect sense once all the dots were connected. Until I see the bigger picture let me continue playing the cards I’ve been dealt.”
With assistance from ghostwriter Brandon Lottering of DBL Publishers it took about six months to complete.
“The book is about getting the message of hope out to those who face difficult challenges,” Paulse said. “Now the book is complete I feel proud and energised, and I’m optimistic. Maybe an influencer or role-model. Mind over matter is what matters.”
Paulse’s book launch was held on Saturday 21 May at Ysterplaat Air Force Base, a central location between her friends and family. “It was a great success, and our first print of 100 books is already nearly sold out, and positive feedback continues to stream in,” she said.
To get a copy of Paulse’s book, at R200, visit the Facebook page “72 Hours Changed My Entire Life” and send a direct message.
