After being diagnosed and treated for bowel cancer in 2019, Rex Buckley then found himself up against a lesser-known autoimmune disease - Guillame – Barre Syndrome (GBS).
GBS is when the body's immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis.
Rex’s GBS journey inspired him to start a support group to help others with the syndrome.
“It has been an important part of my journey. It’s great to be with people who really know how you feel and can share your experience. It helps you feel as though you are not alone.”
He shares his story with us as a way to raise awareness of the disease.
“After having a bowel operation and chemotherapy for bowel cancer, things were looking good. I enjoyed walking and could walk down to the pond and even further down to Pine Harbour which was encouraging.
“However, I noticed that my walking was getting slower and the range of walking was getting shorter. I began to feel that I couldn’t go far unaided. It was harder walking up the small inclines.”
In June 2020, Rex’s symptoms resembled a stroke, his legs were not working, and he was admitted to the hospital.
“Everything seemed to be crumbling, my face, my eyes, my speech. I could not chew. it looked as if both sides of my face were drooping.”
“It was very scary, but the health professionals were positive, caring, and respectful. Nothing was too much trouble. I was watched very closely.”
After tests, he was diagnosed with GBS and started treatment including intravenous immunoglobin (a plasma product) and physiotherapy.
In 2023, Rex spent another period in hospital after losing the use of his legs.
“After the slow return of my leg movement, I can now get around with a stick and a walking frame. These days, I still have pain in my legs especially at night. I cannot walk far from home for long. Thank goodness, the garden is a wonderful haven!”
Recovery can be a long road and having the support of others experiencing the same problem can make a difference.
“Googling GBS was quite scary so I visited GBS NZ, a voluntary organisation, for better information about the syndrome.
“I coordinate the GBS coffee support group in East Auckland, and we meet every three months for a general chat.”
If you want more information on the coffee group, please contact GBS NZ.
The Auckland Botany Coffee Group meet every three months at Columbus Coffee, Mitre 10 Botany, Flatbush.
Next meeting Wednesday, 20 November at 10.30 am.