my update

[Guest guest]

A few weeks ago my GP discovered that I had a surgical staple in me that I

never knew that I had. Not only that, but that this staple has been moving

around in my abdomen and is now trying it's hardest to get out of my body by

itself. She has referred me to another doctor/surgeon to get this out. We

are not sure if this is the only one. Remarkable, it probably has not done

any damage to any of my organs (Thank God for that). It has caused other

problems (many infections since 2000 - when I first got sick and other

problems, etc). I was told by my GP to not do anything until I see the new

doctor and I am hoping that this Doctor will be able to do a procedure in

the office to get it out, otherwise it will be a hospital procedure.

I can't wait to get this staple out (and any others that may be hiding). I

had about 17 surgeries between 1989 and 1996 related to endometriosis and

the staple must have come from one of those surgeries, but we were never

told that I would have any staples. My GP said she had never, ever

experienced finding a staple in the manner that she did (no x-ray). She

also believes that the staple was not properly closed, or not closed at all

for it to have moved like it has.

When we first got the news about this, we were elated, because it explained

a lot of symptoms that were just not explained, but then we both were a bit

angry and frustrated that it took so long to be found and that we weren't

told about any staples in the first place. Now we are accepting it, and I

am trying to be patient for Wed when I see the doctor, but each day, it

seems to hurt more and more, not to mention the fact that I have fevers that

have to be related to the staple (it is in an area that is exposed to air).

Anyway, I wanted to share this with my stills family, because you have all

always been there for me. I think that this is something that is going to

help me get to a point where I may be able to go into a remission (which I

never have for those new to the group). My Rheumy also believes that this

may be part of my problems because my immune system is probably fighting

that staple (since it is moving) along with everything else, so it is on

extra overload. I hope they are all right!!!

Anyway Hugs to all,

Alli