a

[Guest guest]

Hi a,

Sorry it took me so long to get this email. I have been in a lot of pain lately

with working from

4:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Tuesday and turning around and working from 8-5 on

Wednesday, so I haven't

been able to sit at the computer. It was a really strange place without a decent

chair in the

building. I say " was " because it wasn't a situation I could continue. This not

being able to work

has been devastating to me; emotionally and financially. I am just feeling a

little lost and at a

crossroad.

The sinus infection appears to have cleared up...thanks for asking.

What wonderful news about you being able to have your insurance pay for your

splint. It really is

a shame that they have to be threaten with a lawsuit to do what is right. After

my first TMJ

surgery, I wore one at night for quite a number of years. They really do help.

Mine is acting up

again...probably from clenching my teeth. I really need to go back and get a

splint as I don't

know what has happened to mine. Last time I called, I found out that the doc who

had done two of

my surgeries had sold his practice and retired. The grinding and popping is

getting worse but that

is livable but the pain from it is not manageable. Damn, this disease!

a, over this past week my wrists and hands have been really hurting and

swelling. Something

happened several times that was scary and strange. All of the blood left my

pointer finger and it

went totally numb and cold and turned completely white to where it looked like a

dead finger. Do

you think this could be related to disc problems in my neck. If so, I guess I

better get some new

xrays as it has been several years.

It really sounds as though I am falling apart, doesn't it? Thanks for listening.

Hugs. Iris

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> Iris,

> Are you feeling any better? Has your sinus infection cleared up?

> a

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Wrong e-mail address my name is not a, please double check address.

Thanks! :0)

On Sat, 24 May 2003 17:02:28 -0700 (PDT) Iris Nosker <inosker@...>

writes:

Hi a,

Sorry it took me so long to get this email. I have been in a lot of pain

lately with working from

4:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Tuesday and turning around and working from 8-5 on

Wednesday, so I haven't

been able to sit at the computer. It was a really strange place without a

decent chair in the

building. I say " was " because it wasn't a situation I could continue.

This not being able to work

has been devastating to me; emotionally and financially. I am just

feeling a little lost and at a

crossroad.

The sinus infection appears to have cleared up...thanks for asking.

What wonderful news about you being able to have your insurance pay for

your splint. It really is

a shame that they have to be threaten with a lawsuit to do what is right.

After my first TMJ

surgery, I wore one at night for quite a number of years. They really do

help. Mine is acting up

again...probably from clenching my teeth. I really need to go back and

get a splint as I don't

know what has happened to mine. Last time I called, I found out that the

doc who had done two of

my surgeries had sold his practice and retired. The grinding and popping

is getting worse but that

is livable but the pain from it is not manageable. Damn, this disease!

a, over this past week my wrists and hands have been really hurting

and swelling. Something

happened several times that was scary and strange. All of the blood left

my pointer finger and it

went totally numb and cold and turned completely white to where it looked

like a dead finger. Do

you think this could be related to disc problems in my neck. If so, I

guess I better get some new

xrays as it has been several years.

It really sounds as though I am falling apart, doesn't it? Thanks for

listening. Hugs. Iris

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> Iris,

> Are you feeling any better? Has your sinus infection cleared up?

> a

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dear a,

This was a very interesting article, thanks for forwarding it. I know that you

and I have

discussed this topic several times. I was diagnosed with a mycoplasma around the

time that my

symptoms began. I have never tried antibiotic therapy, have you? Iris

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> ŒI refused to live in a wheelchair1

> Tuesday, May 20, 2003

> By Meredith Grenier Copley News Service

>

>

> When most people learn they have crippling rheumatoid arthritis, they seek

> specialists, take powerful autoimmune drugs and resign themselves to a life

> of pain and suffering.

>

> But when one-time TRW rocket scientist and RAND senior researcher

> Poehlmann of Torrance, Calif., was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in

> 1993, she took on a new mission: to discover the cause of her disease and

> find a cure.

>

> After all, the author of more than a dozen scientific reports on space

> technology, defense policy analysis and aircraft logistics figured the human

> body was 3just another system.2

>

> 3I came down with RA and I said, ŒNo way. I am not going to give up my life

> of traveling and enjoying the world.1 I refused to live my life in a

> wheelchair,2 said Poehlmann.

>

> Her story began 10 years ago when she tripped and fell down stairs while in

> Boston on business. She tore ligaments in both ankles and was treated at the

> emergency room with ibuprofen and air casts. Once home, the pain,

> inflammation and swelling persisted for weeks.

>

> When overwhelming fatigue and pain prevented her from standing, walking and

> driving, several rheumatologists confirmed she had rheumatoid arthritis and

> prescribed Naprosyn followed by Relafen and Voltaren ‹ anti-inflammatory

> drugs.

>

> Eventually, she had to work at home. In her spare time, she poured her

> research skills into understanding her disease and healing herself.

>

>

> Book the key

>

> In the process she discovered the book 3The Road Back,2 written in 1988 by

> Dr. McPherson Brown, who believed there is a link between infection

> and rheumatoid arthritis and other related chronic illnesses.

>

> He successfully treated patients with a long-term, low-dose regimen of the

> tetracycline family of antibiotics, the best of which is Minocycline. The

> antibiotic regimen is akin to the same treatment given to teenagers with

> acne.

>

> Four rheumatologists refused to give her a prescription for the antibiotic,

> favoring instead more powerful drugs and even bone fusion surgery. In

> desperation, she self-medicated with tetracycline. Seeing relief after just

> a few weeks, she persuaded her family doctor to give her a prescription.

>

> After eight months of taking the antibiotic and following a diet low in

> sugar, she was symptom-free and stopped taking the medication. A couple of

> years later, she had another flare-up and this time she took the antibiotic

> for only four weeks before symptoms left. Two years later, a third episode

> required another four weeks of treatment.

>

> Since then, free of all pain, she has hiked in Tibet, Chile and over

> sections of the Great Wall of China.

>

>

> Two years of research

>

> Eager to share Brown1s antibiotic therapy with the country1s 3 million

> rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, she wrote and published 3Rheumatoid

> Arthritis: The Infection Connection2 (Satori Press), a clear, concise

> treatise on targeting and treating the cause of the chronic illness.

>

> Through her two years of intensive research, she meticulously studied and

> later documented in the book everything from a comprehensive description of

> what arthritis is to how the immune system works.

>

> Eventually, she knew so much about microbiology, among other subjects, that

> she wrote her doctoral dissertation based on her research and earned a

> doctorate in health science in 1997.

>

> Dr. Tsuyoshi (Pete) Okada, a Gardena, Calif., a specialist in internal and

> geriatric medicine, agrees with the idea that bacteria could be at the root

> of arthritis.

>

> 3The theory is correct. There is no question that arthritis can be caused by

> either a virus or bacteria. I spent 3ˆ years in the Army and I have seen

> gonorrhea cause arthritis,2 he said.

>

> The medical community takes a long time to change, Okada observed. When he

> started medical school in 1956, he recalled, nitroglycerin was not

> recommended for heart attacks. Now it is standard practice.

>

> In her research, Poehlmann learned that rheumatoid arthritis often occurs in

> people with a history since childhood of bronchitis, strep throat or

> pneumonia. The bacterial remnants from these illnesses have an affinity for

> particular tissues, setting the stage for rheumatoid arthritis later in

> life.

>

> Sports injuries to joints in youth also can host latent mycoplasma colonies

> that emerge later as rheumatoid arthritis, she said.

>

>

> Can1t battle infection

>

> She said arthritis usually flares up when the person1s immune system is

> dysfunctional and unable to fight off the infection. The dysfunction can

> come from stress, poor diet or a repeat of a childhood illness that, in

> turn, activates the hidden bacteria.

>

> Because a robust immune system is essential to fighting off infection, it is

> important to maintain good health habits, including proper nutrition, adding

> vitamins and supplements, drinking plenty of water, limiting sugar, reducing

> stress and getting enough cardiovascular exercise.

>

> While Brown1s effective treatment has been known for 30 years, most

> rheumatologists treat the ailment with anti-rheumatic drugs, such as

> Methotrexate, Plaquenil and gold salts. They consider Brown1s antibiotic

> therapy to be controversial, she said. However, this is starting to change

> as more of their patients become aware of Brown1s treatment and call for a

> protocol that targets the cause, not just the symptoms.

>

> Various statistics point to success with 50 percent to 75 percent of the

> people who tried this therapy (one study claimed that 80 percent of patients

> did 3remarkably better2). Yet Poehlmann admits it does not work for

> everyone.

>

> 3I am the first to caution that antibiotic therapy is not for everyone,2

> Poehlmann said. 3It is not a silver bullet. But it has had spectacular

> results for a great many people like myself, who would otherwise be

> permanently crippled and in need of assisted care.2

>

> In some cases, people have had little success because they have given up the

> antibiotic too soon or they refuse to follow the proper nutrition and

> exercise, which is very important.

>

> http://www.cantonrep.com/index.php

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I did go to a rheumatologist that prescribes the antibiotic protocol a few

years ago, but I wasn't comfortable with the doctor and I didn't go back to

him. Then I convinced my last rheumatologist to let me try it, but he

wanted me to take it with MTX and from what I've read only doctors

experienced in the AB protocol should prescribe AB's in combination with

MTX. My doctor was not experienced so again I felt uncomfortable. When I

go back to my current RD next week I am going to ask for it. Yesterday I

finally got to the library and got the book " The New Arthritis Breakthrough "

which is the book written about this protocol by Henry Scammell. I'm only

on the 3rd chapter and I am amazed at the information in the book. There are

just so many stories of complete remission to discount this therapy. Since

you have been diagnosed with micoplasma, you may be a very good candidate

for the Abs. I'm very surprised that since you were diagnosed with

micoplasma, that they didn't treat it.

a

> Dear a,

>

> This was a very interesting article, thanks for forwarding it. I know that you

> and I have

> discussed this topic several times. I was diagnosed with a mycoplasma around

> the time that my

> symptoms began. I have never tried antibiotic therapy, have you? Iris

[Guest guest]

Dear a,

I do think that he probably would change the diagnosis to enable me to take the

Enbrel and see if

it would work. He told me that he is hesitant to call it sero-negative RA and so

gave it the

official code of non-reactive arthritis, spondyloarapathy. I tend to not state

how severe the pain

is nor do I list all of the symptoms. I need to write a letter to him expounding

on all of these

things. All I know is that the pain, achiness, swelling and stiffness are

increasing. When I get

up from bed in the morning it takes me a while to walk standing up. Now it is

happening whenever I

get up from a chair. I am having a lot of heat in my feet and hands along with

the swelling.

Today I read an article that was about Remicade being used for sciataca pain and

having great

success. In the Enbrel instructions it talks about it being used for

Spondyloarapathy so I don't

understand why Wyeth won't provide assistance under this diagnosis too.

I will pass on your congrats to Ian. Thanks. Iris

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> Iris,

> Congratulations to Ian. It's great to hear that some schools have the

> achievement atmosphere and he is not labeled a nerd for wanting to learn.

>

> Do you think your doctor would add RA to your diagnosis so you could get

> enbrel? I am not ANA positive and have a diagnosis of sero-negative RA.

> a

>

>

> > ,

> >

> > It would be awfully nice to be able to let Ian share some of the blame, but

as

> > he told everyone

> > that he thought had driven his truck, I guess I will have to take full

> > responsibility.

> > laughed with everyone else; he is such a good sport. Anyway, I'm sure that

the

> > news will spread

> > because there is another game every night this week.

> >

> > I was busy making sure that Ian didn't feel too bad about the game because

he

> > played really well

> > and pitched a great game that they lost in a judgement call (not a very good

> > one, of course) that

> > I didn't even think about . This is the first year that he has been

> > dugout coach so he has

> > been at the games. I'm not accustomed to him being there.

> >

> > I am so happy that school lets out next week and it will be a welcome

respite.

> > I am so proud of my

> > Ian because he has had a wonderful year. He won the Medal of Excellence in

> > History and academic

> > recognition. His teacher announced during the presentation that Ian's

favorite

> > TV channel was The

> > History Channel. In my day he would have been named a nerd due to that fact

> > but the school that

> > Ian attends has an atmoshere of achievement.

> >

> > I called the Enbrel folks today and they told me that they couldn't help

> > financially because of my

> > diagnosis being Spondyloarapthy, reactive arthritis and that if my rheumy

> > changed my diagnosis to

> > RA they could help. All of my symptoms are the same but I do not test

positive

> > to ANA. This is a

> > real disappointment as lately I have been flaring and the aching in my

joints

> > has been quite

> > painful.

> >

> > I have rattled on much to long and now I must go pick Ian up from school.

Talk

> > to you later. Iris

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I don't have it,I didn't know what it was

> I did go to a rheumatologist that prescribes the antibiotic

protocol a few

> years ago, but I wasn't comfortable with the doctor and I didn't

go back to

> him. Then I convinced my last rheumatologist to let me try it,

but he

> wanted me to take it with MTX and from what I've read only doctors

> experienced in the AB protocol should prescribe AB's in

combination with

> MTX. My doctor was not experienced so again I felt

uncomfortable. When I

> go back to my current RD next week I am going to ask for it.

Yesterday I

> finally got to the library and got the book " The New Arthritis

Breakthrough "

> which is the book written about this protocol by Henry Scammell.

I'm only

> on the 3rd chapter and I am amazed at the information in the book.

There are

> just so many stories of complete remission to discount this

therapy. Since

> you have been diagnosed with micoplasma, you may be a very good

candidate

> for the Abs. I'm very surprised that since you were diagnosed with

> micoplasma, that they didn't treat it.

> a

>

>

> > Dear a,

> >

> > This was a very interesting article, thanks for forwarding it. I

know that you

> > and I have

> > discussed this topic several times. I was diagnosed with a

mycoplasma around

> > the time that my

> > symptoms began. I have never tried antibiotic therapy, have you?

Iris

[Guest guest]

I don't have it,I did not know what it was

Jane

> I did go to a rheumatologist that prescribes the antibiotic

protocol a few

> years ago, but I wasn't comfortable with the doctor and I didn't

go back to

> him. Then I convinced my last rheumatologist to let me try it,

but he

> wanted me to take it with MTX and from what I've read only doctors

> experienced in the AB protocol should prescribe AB's in

combination with

> MTX. My doctor was not experienced so again I felt

uncomfortable. When I

> go back to my current RD next week I am going to ask for it.

Yesterday I

> finally got to the library and got the book " The New Arthritis

Breakthrough "

> which is the book written about this protocol by Henry Scammell.

I'm only

> on the 3rd chapter and I am amazed at the information in the book.

There are

> just so many stories of complete remission to discount this

therapy. Since

> you have been diagnosed with micoplasma, you may be a very good

candidate

> for the Abs. I'm very surprised that since you were diagnosed with

> micoplasma, that they didn't treat it.

> a

>

>

> > Dear a,

> >

> > This was a very interesting article, thanks for forwarding it. I

know that you

> > and I have

> > discussed this topic several times. I was diagnosed with a

mycoplasma around

> > the time that my

> > symptoms began. I have never tried antibiotic therapy, have you?

Iris

[Guest guest]

Hi a,

At the time that the doc told me about my bloodwork for mycoplasma, it was not

active. He thought

that I probably had either Lupus or Cat Scratch Fever but that turned out to not

be the case. It

was never mentioned that this can go dormant and reappear. He did give me a

month's worth of

antibiotics and didn't tell me about any correlation of mycoplasma to immune

diseases. I didn't

attach any importance to this until last year when I started reading all of the

articles. I am

going to make an appointment and discuss antibiotic therapy with him. But first,

I am going to

check out that book at the library.

I found a group just for people doing the antibiotic treatment. Its key

word is rheumatic.

Let me know what your doc does.

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> I did go to a rheumatologist that prescribes the antibiotic protocol a few

> years ago, but I wasn't comfortable with the doctor and I didn't go back to

> him. Then I convinced my last rheumatologist to let me try it, but he

> wanted me to take it with MTX and from what I've read only doctors

> experienced in the AB protocol should prescribe AB's in combination with

> MTX. My doctor was not experienced so again I felt uncomfortable. When I

> go back to my current RD next week I am going to ask for it. Yesterday I

> finally got to the library and got the book " The New Arthritis Breakthrough "

> which is the book written about this protocol by Henry Scammell. I'm only

> on the 3rd chapter and I am amazed at the information in the book. There are

> just so many stories of complete remission to discount this therapy. Since

> you have been diagnosed with micoplasma, you may be a very good candidate

> for the Abs. I'm very surprised that since you were diagnosed with

> micoplasma, that they didn't treat it.

> a

>

>

> > Dear a,

> >

> > This was a very interesting article, thanks for forwarding it. I know that

you

> > and I have

> > discussed this topic several times. I was diagnosed with a mycoplasma around

> > the time that my

> > symptoms began. I have never tried antibiotic therapy, have you? Iris

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

a, I hope she returns to her normal self soon too! Thanks for the

advice. It doesn't make much sense to me to take off the TED hose at

night, but that's what they're still having her do. I can see why she

might be depressed after surgery, but she's so angry. It's just weird.

I feel like somebody took my mom (my very best friend) and left behind

someone mean and nasty, and that all the love I've put into her the past

month has been for naught. Boy, I am in self pity mode!

I need to get on with my own life, and forget about this mess for the

time being. Between Stan's trading fiasco (when our business has slowed

down drastically), and my mom's continued arguments, I'm losing it.

Thanks for the support. You're a great friend, in case I haven't said

so lately.

Love,

Carol

Re: [ ] Another DVT scare with my mom

Carol,

When I wore teds after surgeries, I had to wear them 24 hours a day. I

was

not allowed to take them off at night. I agree with , this is

question

for her doctor.

As far as personality differences, I was told that I went through

similar

experiences. I get depressed after surgery. I'm not sure if it's the

pain

or the pain meds, but I believe it is a combination of both. Since your

mom

is having anxiety with this DVT, it could be causing these personality

changes. Just remember that we take things out on those that are

closest to

us. You are very close to your mom, so you will be the one she takes

her

frustrations out on. I hope she returns to her normal self soon.

a

> Well, I just got off the phone with the cardiologist. They want to do

> another stat ultrasound, now on the other leg to rule out DVT. Again!

> They're doing it first thing in the morning.

>

> I've read that DVT can cause personality changes, and my mom does have

> pain and redness in the non surgical leg as well. I feel like she's

> just not getting the best follow up care. Phone consultations, but

> little in person. The cardiologist's office is going to see her,

> though, once her rehab is over. I feel like something is being

missed,

> and I hope they find it. I told her I think she should go see her

> internist if the ultrasound is negative, just to be safe. I'd like

one

> more doctor actually LOOKING at her.

>

> It just never ends. Well, prayers are being solicited one more time.

> , a: can she wear her TED hose tonight when she sleeps, just

to

> be safe? She normally removes them at night. Thanks!

>

> Love to all,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

Carol,

You are a good friend too Carol and I'm sorry you're going through this.

Your plate is quite full and the self pity is understandable. I hope today

was a better day for both you and your mom. Besides her foul mood, how is

she progressing physically?

a

> a, I hope she returns to her normal self soon too! Thanks for the

> advice. It doesn't make much sense to me to take off the TED hose at

> night, but that's what they're still having her do. I can see why she

> might be depressed after surgery, but she's so angry. It's just weird.

> I feel like somebody took my mom (my very best friend) and left behind

> someone mean and nasty, and that all the love I've put into her the past

> month has been for naught. Boy, I am in self pity mode!

>

> I need to get on with my own life, and forget about this mess for the

> time being. Between Stan's trading fiasco (when our business has slowed

> down drastically), and my mom's continued arguments, I'm losing it.

>

> Thanks for the support. You're a great friend, in case I haven't said

> so lately.

>

> Love,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

And if there were any way for you to send it to me, I'd pay the postage!

We're having 2 more days of RAIN!

Hugs,

Moldy a

> Dearest a...if I knew ANYWAY to pack up this nasty heat and send it

> to you, I'd be happy to do that! We're supposed to have 2 more '90'

> days, then gradually 80's then 70's.

>

> Love You...

>

> Tess

[Guest guest]

Hi a,

She's doing well physically. She's able to bend her knee 110 degrees,

and 120 is the goal. When I spoke to her this morning, and we had our

wonderful talk, she said her pain is much better and she's using mainly

Tylenol now. Hopefully it was the pain med that was causing the

personality changes, and we can get back to being best buddies. I've

missed my mom so much this week.

They gave her a diuretic for the swelling in both legs and she said it

has improved immensely. She's having some problems with her bowels

(stagnation), but I had some helpful hints for her. Otherwise I think

boredom is the worst problem for her. She can't drive yet, and being

homebound isn't fun.

Love and hugs,

Carol

Re: [ ] a

Carol,

You are a good friend too Carol and I'm sorry you're going through this.

Your plate is quite full and the self pity is understandable. I hope

today

was a better day for both you and your mom. Besides her foul mood, how

is

she progressing physically?

a

> a, I hope she returns to her normal self soon too! Thanks for the

> advice. It doesn't make much sense to me to take off the TED hose at

> night, but that's what they're still having her do. I can see why she

> might be depressed after surgery, but she's so angry. It's just

weird.

> I feel like somebody took my mom (my very best friend) and left behind

> someone mean and nasty, and that all the love I've put into her the

past

> month has been for naught. Boy, I am in self pity mode!

>

> I need to get on with my own life, and forget about this mess for the

> time being. Between Stan's trading fiasco (when our business has

slowed

> down drastically), and my mom's continued arguments, I'm losing it.

>

> Thanks for the support. You're a great friend, in case I haven't said

> so lately.

>

> Love,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

This is really great Carol. I'm so happy that your mom is back. I know it

was a big scare. Hopefully the bowel problem will resolve now that she's

off of the pain meds. Surgery like she had is so traumatic. I remember

going through deep depressions while in the rehab hospital both times I had

my knees replaced. This is all behind her now and mom is back!

a

> Hi a,

>

> She's doing well physically. She's able to bend her knee 110 degrees,

> and 120 is the goal. When I spoke to her this morning, and we had our

> wonderful talk, she said her pain is much better and she's using mainly

> Tylenol now. Hopefully it was the pain med that was causing the

> personality changes, and we can get back to being best buddies. I've

> missed my mom so much this week.

>

> They gave her a diuretic for the swelling in both legs and she said it

> has improved immensely. She's having some problems with her bowels

> (stagnation), but I had some helpful hints for her. Otherwise I think

> boredom is the worst problem for her. She can't drive yet, and being

> homebound isn't fun.

>

> Love and hugs,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

Tess,

One day when you feel up to it, maybe you could make a phone call to an

attorney just to verify the information. I know exactly how it goes when

you work and flare. The last 2 positions I took at the temp service I was

working for made me flare. Sigh.........

Love you too sweetie. You're a very special person and I'm happy to know

you.

a

> Hi a...I talked to a couple of people...apparently the criteria for

> receiving a widow's pension at age 50 is stricter than for other

> benefits. I have thought of passing this by an SS attorney, but it

> feels overwelming. I tried so hard to work - got excellent reviews, but

> eventually I'd flare so badly I would fall apart. It does seem wrong

> that trying to be employed would be a double-edged sword and the little

> bit of money I made would prevent me from the widow's benefits for 10

> years!!!

>

> Love you, a....

>

> Tess

[Guest guest]

a,

I am sorry to hear of your ex sister-in-law's passing; how tragic for her

family...not knowing for

months. Even though we may divorce a spouse, their family is always thought of

with love and fond

memories that are in the fabric of your life. Iris

P.S. I think we should all go to Las Vegas as most cities have special airfares

to get there.

Besides, I have always wanted to go.

--- a <paula54@...> wrote:

> Yes, I'm also on Enbrel and will be taking it regularly instead of skipping

> injections if I'm having a good day. Between all these storms and some

> stressful things going on, my poor body doesn't stand a chance lately.

> Oh well, things will get better. My ex Sister in law was found murdered in

> Philly. They found her months ago, but didn't know who she was. Pretty

> sad.

> a

>

> > I think he knows he'll never be able to shut you up, a, LOL!

> >

> > That's great news. I hope the Minocin helps you. Will you also be on

> > Enbrel?

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

<<I read these studies

and wonder who is smoking crack.>>

LOL LOL LOL

That's too funny, a! But well said. I think they're just looking

for cushy research, maybe. They don't want to work too much. Who

knows. The crack idea is probably closest to the truth.

I'll bet your kids are more compassionate, too.

Love and hugs,

Carol

Re: [ ] VeritasMedicine - Parenting Skills and Women

with RA

Hey, we all survived. My kids are semi normal LOL! I think they have

more

compassion for those with pain and disability than most kids. Faced

with

difficulties as we ALL are, we manage to find ways to do what we have to

do.

Wasted grant money is also a major pet peeve of mine. I read these

studies

and wonder who is smoking crack.

a

> Oh, a. I'm so sorry you had to go through all that. I know the

end

> justifies the means, but it's a shame you couldn't have had an easier

> time parenting.

>

> Common sense, people! Do they do these studies just to stay employed?

> Do they pocket some of the grant money? I would think there are

better

> uses of research money than that. I wish we could write to these

people

> and ask why they spend so much money on ridiculous studies. I

wouldn't

> know who to write. I guess the thing that gets me most is that the

> results don't offer any solution anyway. Just an observation. OK,

I'm

> getting off my soapbox now!

>

> Love and hugs,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

Oh no, a! I'll bet he was mortified. I'm glad you had a sense of

humor about it. I guess it's the only thing you can do. I think years

from now the bride and groom will get a good laugh. Randall is such a

fun and upbeat young man (and a TOTAL hunk, by the way), I'm sure he'll

be laughing.

The ebay store has been a blast so far. The e-zine I'm beginning

publication on is LOTS of fun. I'm watching all the designer

collections, then suggesting ways to get the same look for less money.

Of course, I'm trying to tie in my merchandise to the trends to increase

sales. Mainly I'm trying to add value and create " brand awareness' so

to speak. Loyal customers are what I hope will build my business. I'm

planning a trip to NYC to meet with wholesalers within the next couple

of months. I'm trying to get an invite to a coupe of the Spring 04

collections during fashion week in Sept. If I can, that's when I'll go

up.

My arthritis has been cooperating very well, I'm happy to say.

Hopefully that's a trend that will continue. Most importantly, my

depression is getting better. I don't think I realized how depressed I

was until I started to feel better.

Are you still having problems with the headaches?

Love and hugs,

Carol

[ ] Carol

Carol,

Good luck with your ebay store. It sounds very enjoyable. I hope it

enables you

to get insurance.

I'm shocked at the Pastor's behavior at the wedding you went to. I

can imagine the

bride's family not being to happy with him. It will hopefully give

them something to laugh

about for a long time. At my wedding my husband's brother was best man

and

did the toast to the bride and groom. Only problem is he toasted to

the groom

and his EX WIFE instead of me. He was pretty horrified, but it's

something we

laugh about to this day.

a

[Guest guest]

So glad your arthritis is behaving. You need a break. How is your mom

doing?

Yeah I'm still having the headaches. So far the splint is just giving

me mouth sores.

It to soon to tell if it will help especially since I can't wear it the

way I'm supposed to.

Hope you get an invite! If you're passing through NJ on your way to

NY, hope we

can meet.

a

On Monday, July 14, 2003, at 08:58 PM, Carol wrote:

> From: " Carol " <carol@...>

> Date: Mon Jul 14, 2003 8:58:25 PM US/Eastern

> < >

> Subject: RE: [ ] a

> Reply-

>

> Oh no, a! I'll bet he was mortified. I'm glad you had a sense of

> humor about it. I guess it's the only thing you can do. I think

> years

> from now the bride and groom will get a good laugh. Randall is such a

> fun and upbeat young man (and a TOTAL hunk, by the way), I'm sure

> he'll

> be laughing.

>

> The ebay store has been a blast so far. The e-zine I'm beginning

> publication on is LOTS of fun. I'm watching all the designer

> collections, then suggesting ways to get the same look for less money.

> Of course, I'm trying to tie in my merchandise to the trends to

> increase

> sales. Mainly I'm trying to add value and create " brand awareness' so

> to speak. Loyal customers are what I hope will build my business. I'm

> planning a trip to NYC to meet with wholesalers within the next couple

> of months. I'm trying to get an invite to a coupe of the Spring 04

> collections during fashion week in Sept. If I can, that's when I'll

> go

> up.

>

> My arthritis has been cooperating very well, I'm happy to say.

> Hopefully that's a trend that will continue. Most importantly, my

> depression is getting better. I don't think I realized how depressed I

> was until I started to feel better.

>

> Are you still having problems with the headaches?

>

> Love and hugs,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

Hi a,

Mom's doing OK. She's healing really well, for which I'm grateful. Her

moods are still touch and go. She and have free tickets to come

and visit which expire in a few weeks, and she' s not sure she even

wants to use them. I hate to see her waste them, especially since

they're from earlier tickets which I bought. Oh well. I hope her

emotions even out soon. She still says what a disappointment I was and

that I didn't help her enough. Oh well.

If I do get invites (I hope, I hope) I'll be flying up, unfortunately.

Another free ticket, LOL. But I'm sure the time will come when I need

to drive, and I'll stop by then. I would SO love to meet you. And if

you're in Orlando, let me know.

All that money for the splint, I hope it starts to work. Can you

increase your mtx to help the mouth sores? Maybe an extra mg would help

keep your mouth from being so sensitive. Just a thought... Headaches

are just about the worst thing I can think of.

Love,

Carol

RE: [ ] a

> Reply-

>

> Oh no, a! I'll bet he was mortified. I'm glad you had a sense of

> humor about it. I guess it's the only thing you can do. I think

> years

> from now the bride and groom will get a good laugh. Randall is such a

> fun and upbeat young man (and a TOTAL hunk, by the way), I'm sure

> he'll

> be laughing.

>

> The ebay store has been a blast so far. The e-zine I'm beginning

> publication on is LOTS of fun. I'm watching all the designer

> collections, then suggesting ways to get the same look for less money.

> Of course, I'm trying to tie in my merchandise to the trends to

> increase

> sales. Mainly I'm trying to add value and create " brand awareness' so

> to speak. Loyal customers are what I hope will build my business.

I'm

> planning a trip to NYC to meet with wholesalers within the next couple

> of months. I'm trying to get an invite to a coupe of the Spring 04

> collections during fashion week in Sept. If I can, that's when I'll

> go

> up.

>

> My arthritis has been cooperating very well, I'm happy to say.

> Hopefully that's a trend that will continue. Most importantly, my

> depression is getting better. I don't think I realized how depressed

I

> was until I started to feel better.

>

> Are you still having problems with the headaches?

>

> Love and hugs,

> Carol

[Guest guest]

Hi a,

It is always so good to hear from you. Hope you are feeling well.

Yes, it is tough just having surgery and preparing to move. Here we are

leaving Oct 1 and have nowhere to move to and no mover to do it. We are not

sure

if it will be PA, DE or NJ..Bob would love to live in Ocean City, NJ but we

can't touch the prices.

Where are you located? Anything reasonable down there? i.e. $150,000? Sounds

like peanuts when I say it but in FL, you can get an absolutely beautiful home

for that price. I know you are in Jersey somewhere....

a, I love Florida but sadly we have everyone except my one son who is

here in FL, but all others are back in PA. I have a brother who is 72 and a

sister who is 66 back home and they are not getting any younger...but HOW WE

BOTH

HATE WINTERS and remember we have been in AZ for the last 10 yrs so we are not

used to cold....

I have an idea...How about we buy a small home down here and share it....? It

would work for me HAHA How about you? Bob and I would love to either buy a

mobile or a small home here for winters.

Hope to hear from you

Love Joanne

[Guest guest]

Joanne,

Ocean City is about 40 minutes from me. I don't go there often, but it has

a nice boardwalk. It has the boardwalk that Atlantic City USED to have. My

favorite shore island is Brigantine. It is a lot like Ocean City but there

is no boardwalk. I love the beaches there. It is clean and the people are

great.

If you looked for a home offshore 40-50 minutes away, you would find homes

in your price range. Have you checked out realtor.com? I've done many

hours of dream shopping for homes in Florida on that website. You really do

get a lot of house for your money there. I hear the homeowner's insurance

is very high due to hurricanes. Florida also taxes many things that aren't

taxed here. My major concern is health care. I'd have a problem living in

a state with inadequate healthcare.

The idea of sharing a Florida house is appealing, but fortunately for me, my

parents just bought a place in Florida with 2 extra bedrooms so the Florida

home is covered for me.

Family I a big consideration when relocating. Both of our family is all

here and we'd hate to leave them.

a

> Hi a,

>

> It is always so good to hear from you. Hope you are feeling well.

> Yes, it is tough just having surgery and preparing to move. Here we are

> leaving Oct 1 and have nowhere to move to and no mover to do it. We are not

> sure

> if it will be PA, DE or NJ..Bob would love to live in Ocean City, NJ but we

> can't touch the prices.

> Where are you located? Anything reasonable down there? i.e. $150,000? Sounds

> like peanuts when I say it but in FL, you can get an absolutely beautiful home

> for that price. I know you are in Jersey somewhere....

>

> a, I love Florida but sadly we have everyone except my one son who is

> here in FL, but all others are back in PA. I have a brother who is 72 and a

> sister who is 66 back home and they are not getting any younger...but HOW WE

> BOTH

> HATE WINTERS and remember we have been in AZ for the last 10 yrs so we are not

> used to cold....

>

> I have an idea...How about we buy a small home down here and share it....? It

> would work for me HAHA How about you? Bob and I would love to either buy a

> mobile or a small home here for winters.

>

> Hope to hear from you

> Love Joanne

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi a

Thank you so much for your input and great sites about the knee. It sure is

painful and swollen...I see the ortho tomorrow...I will keep you informed

Hugs

Joanne

[Guest guest]

You're welcome. Glad to help.

a

> Thanks for the kidney stones links! They were helpful!

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

You have a good philosophy Judi. I'm not sure I'd handle it as well as you

do. I'm sure you are a valued member of the support group and have a lot of

encouragement to offer them, just as you do here. You'll be in my prayers

on Monday as you tackle the next round of of surgery to remove the lumps.

a

> Hi a,

>

> Yeah, I really don't look forward to another surgery, but guess it is

> a fact of life now. I told someone at the pain support group I go to

> on Monday nights (part of the local pain clinic) that pain is not

> what defines me, it just gets in my way sometimes. They seem to like

> that philosophy.

>

> Surgery is scheduled for Monday morning, and I'm supposed to see the

> surgeon in the next couple of days so he can see what and where.

> probably 15-20 tumors on my back and sides, and as many as he feels

> it is safe to remove from my arms. This one will have to last me a

> few months until I can become established with the group in

> Cincinnati. Then they will see what has to be done abdominally, and

> what may be growing in or on organs. At least I know what I'll be

> for Halloween--it's a tossup between wiffle ball and Swiss cheese.

>

> Cheers,

> Judi

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

A lung biopsy doesn't sound like much fun. It's good that you are doing

better. Maybe that could mean that it was the MTX and now that you're off

of it, your lungs will improve. It's hard to figure out what is going on

since RA itself can cause lung inflammation that has the same symptoms of so

many other conditions. I've read that if it is caused by the MTX and you

stop taking it as soon as you have symptoms, MTX induced pulmonary syndrome

is usually reversible. I hope that is your case.

Glad you like the website. I've been adding many more links and updating it

more often.

a

> The mxt was helping some but was backing off, but it did help with

> the Humira, which I noticed a couple of days after the first

> injection. We will see what it does by itself, I have had two

> injections so far and nothing yet.

>

> The Pulmonary Specialist wants me back in three month, sooner if I

> get worse. The only way they can know for sure what is going on is

> to do a biopsy, they don't want to do that if they can help it

> because it causes damage. I was alright with that because it doesn't

> sound like much fun and I am doing better, lung wise.

>

> Hope everything is well with you, I appreciate all the work you do on

> the site, there is some really good information.

>

> in Central Oregon

>

>

>

>