A few questions

[Guest guest]

Les wrote:

>

> Hi I am new. I found out two weeks ago that I have Candida. I am

trying to do this correctly but by the time I found this loop, I have

discovered I am doing things differently and I am not sure what to do.

==>Hi Les. Welcome to our group! After reading my article, open the

1st folder (in our files) for the article Candida, How to Get Started.

>

> I started taking an anti fungal (Statin Capsules - Caprylic Acid

> Preparation) two weeks ago before I even changed my diet.

==>As you probably realize caprylic acid is derived from coconut oil

but we recommend the " real thing " , and you also start on it when you

start on the diet because of the importance of it as a fat.

> I also started taking the probiotics the same time. Over the first

week I started removing different food items until this past week I

am pretty well in line with your food plan. Should I continue taking

the anti fungal and probiotics as I have been or would you recommend

backing off them for the time being? I know you don't recommend it at

the start but I was not sure of what to do since I am already taking

them.

==>If you are doing okay on caprylic acid and probiotics you can

continue taking them, but also add coconut oil and Pau D'Arco tea as

well. Pau D'arco is a mild antifungal and it also helps detoxify,

along with many other benefits - see the Antifungal Folder for

details on the antifungals I recommend. When you finish the caprylic

acid on hand you do not need to buy any more, instead " when you are

ready " start on one of the 3 antifungals I recommend.

>

> My allergies testing showed I have an intolerance to coconut and to

eggs. I know you recommend oil of coconut every day so I am not sure

what to do in this case. I am still at the stage of feeling totally

overwhelmed by this whole idea. Any suggestions would be greatly

appreciated.

==>Allergy tests are totally inaccurate as well as the whole antibody

theory concocted by the medical community. The fact is Healing

Reactions are not Allergic Reactions which is why the field is so

misunderstood, but it is a big money maker. The medical community

does not believe in the body's ability to heal itself, like I and

many others do, therefore they don't give the body what it needs in

order to heal. Instead they label and treat individual symptoms

which force the body into a particularl situation which may

temporarily ease the immediate problem but they do not treat the

cause. I believe the cause is lack of nutrition and toxic overloads.

==>I don't believe anyone is allergic to good unadulterated nature-

made foods like eggs and coconut oil, but they can experience healing

reactions. When the body gets what it needs in order to heal it will

go into high gear creating healing reactions and symptoms which are

exactly the same as the list of allergic reactions. For more

information see the folders " Allergies, What They Are & How to Treat

Them " and " Germ & Antibody Theories Are False " .

==>Hang in there Les. There's a lot of information to absorb and

understand. Take your time, don't overwhelm your body and take one

step at a time. This is a whole new venture and it can be daunting.

We are here to support you and answer questions. I'm glad you found

us.

The best in health, Bee

[Guest guest]

>From: " fernfam3 " <fernfam3@...>

>Some of my symptoms that had disappeared rather quickly when I first

>got on the diet returned again. The symptoms are a dull ache in my

>hand joints and bad underarm odor. Does healing kind of go in cycles?

>

>Thanks,

>

>

,

Bee said healing is like a roller coaster ride. Some days will be better

than others and you never know what's around the next turn. For me at this

point it is mostly fatigue and emotional re-tracing (after 9 months on the

diet).

Shirley

[Guest guest]

>

> I'm taking a seperate niacin along with my B- complex. I take 50mg of

> niacin twice a day. I'm not getting any flushing reaction. Is there

> something wrong?

>

> Some of my symptoms that had disappeared rather quickly when I first

> got on the diet returned again. The symptoms are a dull ache in my

> hand joints and bad underarm odor. Does healing kind of go in cycles?

>

==> , there is nothing wrong if you do not flush, but you

could up the niacin a little and increase it once a week if nothing

happens.

I think Shirley answered your 2nd question; also read articles in the

Healing Naturally file to understand the healing process.

Luv, Bee

[Guest guest]

Dear ,

!, For me( and everyone is different, some have more abilities as far as a forward lean, I have little) I would say I feel stiff, at least my torso, my torso works like it's made of cement, one piece. Yes it weird and takes some adjustment. I also am aware of my back all the time, not painful, just feel muscles and hardware, this has taken a lot of getting used to. I also am profoundly numb on the majority of my back from all the trama it's had through four surgeries, which contributes to the weird feeling. With my Harrington Rod I was fused down to L-3 and could bend and put my hands flat on the floor, those days are over. I have a leaning quality, but don't go very far forward.

2. I doubt you wheelchair would be any worse than the bumpiness of a car, I think it would be fine.

3.I had donated four units for each surgery. I also had direct donations, I'm O negative, and quite the bleeder during surgery so I tryed to cover the bases. My landlords church had a donation system in place, and just sent there o negative people to donate directly to me, got four units that way.

4. they give you a form to sign before surgery giving you the ability to recieve your old hardware if you'd like it. I have my harrington rod, in a bag, and it's a great conversation piece. When they removed my hardware from my first revision( I've had two) I didn't request that hardware and regret it, would have been interesting to see it.

5. Self cathing wasn't something I had to do. Carla who had surgery with Kumar and I know did have to do that. She still has her L-5 S-1 open, and did self cath herself after surgery, but doesn't need to anymore. Getting to all those areas after fusion to the sacrum depends a lot on arm length. I'm blessed mine are very long and it sure helps with toileting, some have trouble inserting a tampax( sorry guys, just cover your eyes). I stand to get at my backside for wiping, helps with reach, and use Cottonelle wet wipes. I guess that having a short torso and long arms would be the best senario.

I'm the one who suggested Blindsided, isn't it an amazing book. He has another coming out, don't know the name, I'll check at Boarders the next time I'm there and pass it on. For those who don't know what we are talking about, Blindsided is a book written by Cohen, Meredith Viera's husband( of the View and the Today show) who has MS. It's truly the most inspiring, real book about dealing with a progressive illness. He's a journalist, and it's written beautifully, I highly recommend it for anyone who's drowning in a illness and can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. He doesn't sugar coat his troubles, MS and the resulting legal blindness and trouble walking, but Colon cancer that hit not once but twice. He speaks of dealing with family and work all the time while his body is going downhill. It's in my list of top three books I've ever read, lessons on almost every page.

[ ] a few questions

Hi everyone!I am just curious if people here might know the answers to any of these questions:1. I am currently fused to L4. If getting fused to the sacrum (or pelvis.. not quite sure?) how different does it feel? Everyone keeps saying how you'll only be able to bend from the hips, but I am wondering how different it is from being fused fairly low already.2. I have a powerchair - not a scooter, but a joystick-controlled electric wheelchair. After my surgery, do you think that it may be too jerky/bumpy to comfortably use? It almost fully reclines and tilts back and lifts legs, etc. to try to improve circulation for people who are sedentary, and the gel seat is very comfortable to sit in. 3. Did you have to donate blood ahead of time, and/or could family members donate for you?4. Weird question - for those of you who had your old rods removed -were you allowed to keep them to impress friends & family?5. If any of you self-cath'ed for bladder problems before surgery, did you have any problems resuming this after the new fusion? In other words, did the new lack of flexibility make it really difficult?And thanks to whomever suggesting reading Blindsided by Cohen. I am partway through it, and enjoying it

[Guest guest]

,

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions

As far as the benefits vs risks of going ahead with the surgery -

I've thought for a few months about it. My MS neurologist feels

that the surgery is a good idea, and the revision surgeon gave no

promises, but suggested talking it over with my neurologist. What

the surgeons were most concerned about were the following:

Will fusing me upright cause me to have the sensation of tipping

backwards (my sense of balance is slightly off due to MS)?

Would such a major surgery cause my MS to flare?

Would I be able to walk better as a result of being more upright?

Would I be able to have less pain as a result of having the surgery?

The answers to the questions are somewhat unknown. We won't know if

fusing me straight upright will make my brain mistakenly think I am

tipping over. And, according to my neuro, there's no way of knowing

this until it's been done. I am willing to take the risk.

My neuro says that the surgery should NOT cause an MS flare, maybe a

temporary worsening of symptoms, but nothing horrible. And the

rehab stuff afterwards should help immensely. I may be in rehab

longer than typical.

I will hopefully be able to walk better after being more upright.

By not leaning forward so much, I may even be able to go back to

using my quad cane instead of my walker for short distances. If

that's the case, I am optimistic that I may even be able to drive

again some day. Maybe I'm being a little too optimistic, but hell,

what do I have to lose??

And they are relatively sure that the surgery would lessen my

current level of back apin below the fusion, as well as helping my

neck pain (since I wouldn't always be craning my neck to look up).

You have a very valid point about the sitting stuff. But right now,

sitting it hard for me too. I sit almost the entire day, except for

short trips with my walker to the refrigerator, sink, or bathroom,

getting my in-home PT. My butt feels all sorts of pressure aches.

I have a great gel seat on my powerchair which is a big help.

Thanks for the advice with the self-cathing. I do happen to have

long arms and a short torso, so hopefully things won't take a lot of

adjustment.

And I'm glad to hear that you were able to keep your hardware

What a conversation piece that must be!

Sorry I couldn't remember it was you who recommended the book, but

thanks!

So anyways, I know that having this surgery is a bit of a gamble,

but with my current quality-of-life issues, I feel that I want to

try to do anything that gives me the slightest chance to improve.

If the only thing it does is take away some of the daily pain, then

it will still be worth the try

>

> Dear ,

>

> !, For me( and everyone is different, some have more abilities as

far as a forward lean, I have little) I would say I feel stiff, at

least my torso, my torso works like it's made of cement, one piece.

Yes it weird and takes some adjustment. I also am aware of my back

all the time, not painful, just feel muscles and hardware, this has

[Guest guest]

Cena, Yes I worry that down the road I will need to get osteotomies!

Things are going well for me but I really don't have much lordosis.

I'm very upright for now but actually Dr. didn't make me

extravagant promises of total perfection and told my husband right

after the surgery that because a nerve was in the way he couldn't do

all that he wanted and that another anterior surgery might be required

in the next few months. Now, he says that things look good and the

fusion is taking. But who knows in a few years? I really trust him

though for the time being:)

I've been getting these " attacks " of needing my brace since starting

physio. I get a pang of mild pain in the center of my back and feel

like I might colapse. It makes me cry out ahhh and my family gets

scared. They're getting used to it now and just run and get my brace.

After an hour or so I'm okay again. The physiotherapist says its my

muscles complaining about being forced to work again. Have you or

anyone else had this? It seems to make sense.

Francine

[Guest guest]

Hi Francine, I feel better having " met " you - having similar surgeries and being

at the same progress time! I didn't get a brace (they don't tend to give them

here in Canada too often anymore for spinal surgery, even revisions), but I have

experienced similar pains in my back. They even seem higher than where my

surgery was focused on. I asked my PT and specialist, and they said basically

the same as yours did, along with that my back needs to find a new balance now.

Before my upper back had settled in one spot according to what my lower spine

was doing, now that the lumbar area has been restructured, the rest of my spine

needs to find a new " balance " . I don't know if I'm explaining it properly -

they said it was to be expected b/c I have literally no tone in my back. I

always worry when I get these " spasms " , but have to remind myself that it's

" okay " . I do get scared about popping a screw though right now, or that the

fusion doesn't take. I had a nerve " get in the way " too - they ended up hitting

it, bruising it, which has given me some numbness and nerve pain in my leg. My

specialist said he couldn't say if I would need an osteotomy down the road, but

there is a good chance I would be okay with the reconstruction he did. He said

the problem I may have is with my last vertebrae - L5 down the road. What did

you have done exactly?

Take care,

Cena

________________________________

>

> From: franceegreen@...

> Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2007 21:48:10 +0000

> Subject: [ ] Re: a few questions

>

> Cena, Yes I worry that down the road I will need to get osteotomies!

> Things are going well for me but I really don't have much lordosis.

> I'm very upright for now but actually Dr. didn't make me

> extravagant promises of total perfection and told my husband right

> after the surgery that because a nerve was in the way he couldn't do

> all that he wanted and that another anterior surgery might be required

> in the next few months. Now, he says that things look good and the

> fusion is taking. But who knows in a few years? I really trust him

> though for the time being:)

> I've been getting these " attacks " of needing my brace since starting

> physio. I get a pang of mild pain in the center of my back and feel

> like I might colapse. It makes me cry out ahhh and my family gets

> scared. They're getting used to it now and just run and get my brace.

> After an hour or so I'm okay again. The physiotherapist says its my

> muscles complaining about being forced to work again. Have you or

> anyone else had this? It seems to make sense.

> Francine

>

_________________________________________________________________

Explore the seven wonders of the world

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[Guest guest]

Cena and Francine,

Rest assured a lot of the " complaints " that you mentioned

are in fact, healing pain. Or as your doctor says, finding a new

balance. I am almost a year out and have experienced spasms

that had me held in suspension as they passed. I had pain where

the screws are. For the longest time I could hear my back as

I moved. I had a " butt " ache for almost a year as I did core

strengthening. I tilted 10-15 degrees forward until I saw a

PT specialist in posture after I had done 6 months of core strengthening.

All of these things cleared....it just takes time. Take heart.

[Guest guest]

Dear ,

I. I only had one day revisions, and yes my period hit either the second or third day after. I hope someone chimes in about after surgery # 2, but my thought that even if it did hit once again it probably would be light since materials wouldn't have time to build up that quickly.

2. Self cathing wasn't something I had to do, but it might be tricky depending on how far up and down you are fused. I'm fused T-1 to the sacrum, and there are compromises that I had to figure out for toileting. I stand to wipe, I can't get to everything sitting, first I have long arms but not quite long enough to manage everything without standing. I've never been a tampon user, for me those days are gone too tricky, might be possible laying down. I'm a huge fan of wet wipes for the toilet for adults, they give me the extra couple of inches to get my backside wiped sucessfully. Please know that I'm a bit special since most of us aren't fused as high as I am. I did find a difference in function from my fusions ending at T-5 and then going up to T-1. Mostly getting into cars, and wiping, having a very stiff torso makes for compromises, but I managed to figure them out and I'm sure you will too. Practice self cathing without bending your torso and see if it's possible.

3. I have always been able to sleep on my back, but mostly am a side sleeper. I could never sleep on my stomach before revision, and truly haven't tried it, mostly cause it's unnatural after all those years of not doing it.

4.I had no tailbone issues.

5. I didn't have a second insurance like medicare, and I'm a fluffy girl, only wish I had to worry about keeping weight on, but I have a dear friend who has that problem and ensure is her best friend when she gets sick. I'd discuss this with your doc and talk to a nutritionist before surgery, to start buliding yourself up before hand. Most of us do loose weigh with this surgery, so for you this is an issue of concern to really talk out with your doc, and I think a nutritionist would be key.

[ ] a few questions

My surgery is going to be in mid-July with Dr. Ondra at Northwestern in Chicago. I had a couple that I'd like to ask. I apologize if some seem a bit graphic, but I'd really like to know!!1. For those of you who were still menstruating - I know that it is "normal" to end up having your period right after you have surgery. I am having 2 surgeries done a week apart, so I assume that I wouldn't likely get another period after that second one..?2. For those of you who may have had severe bladder problems and self-cathed - was this difficult to continue after your surgeries? My incontinence is most likely due to other things, so we're not expecting the surgery to alleviate the need for self-cathing.3. Were you guys able to sleep on your backs before surgery?? I haven't been able to do so for a couple of years, because it causes too much pain. Are you able to sleep on your back after surgery?4. When sitting on the toilet, I sit all the way back so that (sorry for the graphics) I can get my hands in front for the self-cathing stuff. I've noticed in the past year that my tailbone seems to be sticking out more and it rubs very uncomfortably on the toilet seat as I am sitting. Has anyone else noticed strange things with their tailbone? When I look at myself in the mirror after a shower, I see a small lump that sticks out there, right above my "crack". Most people seem have a sway inward there right above their butt.5. For those of you were thin going into the surgery - did you lose a lot of weight after your surgeries? Over the past few years, I have had a problem keeping weight on. I carry any weight in my tummy and the rest of me is skinny. I already drink ensure shakes and protein shakes to try to keep my weight from dropping. I also dutifully eat my fair share of cookies and ice cream, haha :)6. I have been on disability for two years now and Medicare will be kicking in about a month before my surgery. I have fantastic health insurance through my husband, and will therefore only be taking the free Medicare coverage, not any of the extra coverage. Does anyone have experience with this? Will it interfere with my current coverage through my husband, and make the surgery a billing nightmare? Currently, I will only need to pay a $100 co-pay for the surgery, then everything else will be covered 100%. I am hoping that Medicare won't mess things up, but I won't hold my breath since it IS a government program :)Anyways, I probably have a lot more questions, but that is all I can think of at the moment. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I think that when you are on Medicare because you've been on disability for 2 years, you are under 65, and you are covered by your spouse's insurance through his employer, then your coverage through your spouse's employer is primary and Medicare is secondary. Your private insurance pays first and then sends an EOB to Medicare and Medicare pays it's portion and sends you an EOB telling you what amount you may be billed by the provider. I'm sure that when your Medicare coverage begins, you'll get information from Medicare explaining all this. Also, the benefits person at your husband's office should know how it works.

Hope this helps.

Bonnie

[ ] a few questions

My surgery is going to be in mid-July with Dr. Ondra at Northwestern in Chicago. I had a couple that I'd like to ask. I apologize if some seem a bit graphic, but I'd really like to know!!1. For those of you who were still menstruating - I know that it is "normal" to end up having your period right after you have surgery. I am having 2 surgeries done a week apart, so I assume that I wouldn't likely get another period after that second one..?2. For those of you who may have had severe bladder problems and self-cathed - was this difficult to continue after your surgeries? My incontinence is most likely due to other things, so we're not expecting the surgery to alleviate the need for self-cathing.3. Were you guys able to sleep on your backs before surgery?? I haven't been able to do so for a couple of years, because it causes too much pain. Are you able to sleep on your back after surgery?4. When sitting on the toilet, I sit all the way back so that (sorry for the graphics) I can get my hands in front for the self-cathing stuff. I've noticed in the past year that my tailbone seems to be sticking out more and it rubs very uncomfortably on the toilet seat as I am sitting. Has anyone else noticed strange things with their tailbone? When I look at myself in the mirror after a shower, I see a small lump that sticks out there, right above my "crack". Most people seem have a sway inward there right above their butt.5. For those of you were thin going into the surgery - did you lose a lot of weight after your surgeries? Over the past few years, I have had a problem keeping weight on. I carry any weight in my tummy and the rest of me is skinny. I already drink ensure shakes and protein shakes to try to keep my weight from dropping. I also dutifully eat my fair share of cookies and ice cream, haha :)6. I have been on disability for two years now and Medicare will be kicking in about a month before my surgery. I have fantastic health insurance through my husband, and will therefore only be taking the free Medicare coverage, not any of the extra coverage. Does anyone have experience with this? Will it interfere with my current coverage through my husband, and make the surgery a billing nightmare? Currently, I will only need to pay a $100 co-pay for the surgery, then everything else will be covered 100%. I am hoping that Medicare won't mess things up, but I won't hold my breath since it IS a government program :)Anyways, I probably have a lot more questions, but that is all I can think of at the moment. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I had a lot of

questions, too, before my surgery and the forum members were very helpful in

answering them. I can give you some answers to your numbered questions as they

pertain to me, however, I’m sure other forum members will/may have other

suggestions or information for you as it relates to their experiences.

1.

I’m post-menopausal but I still ended up having a substantial

period following my surgery and while still in the hospital. I didn’t

prepare for it as I didn’t expect to have one because I am post-meno. The

nurses were wonderful and provided me with what I needed. My surgery was done

in one day so I can’t answer (with authority) what might happen following

the second, separate surgery. I did, however, have another period the next

month following my return home from the hospital.

2.

No severe bladder problems, no self-cathing needed. I did have a

catheter (like everyone else) but I don’t remember having one. My husband

has told me about it.

3.

Before surgery, I could not sleep on my back unless I had a big

pillow under my knees, and even then could only do it for a short time before

having to turn on my side. Now (8 ½ weeks post op), sleeping on my back feels

great.

4.

Can’t offer any info on this item but am sorry about the pain

you’re having. Hopefully, your surgery will alleviate this problem. It

will probably also change your shape.

5.

I began an eating program to lose weight shortly before my surgery.

I needed to lose about 30 pounds. I lost about 12 pounds after the surgery

because I think my appetite was greatly diminished because of the pain meds. I’m

off them now and continue to lose weight slowly because I’m eating often

and watching my portion sizes. I don’t go hungry and feel satisfied. You

may find that you lose weight. I think most everyone has. But after you mend

for a while, you may be feeling so good that your appetite picks up and you

maintain a steady, healthy weight. Others will have to weigh in about this.

Note: About pain medication. I know others have indicted having

problems with the anterior incision. I didn’t but I think it was because,

in addition to the other morphine I initially received through my arterial IV, Dr.

Flemming also attached a “morphine ball” (not sure what the real

name is for it) to my anterior incision. It would “self” administer

and was planned so that it would run out about the time I would be leaving to

go home. The nurse removed it when the ball was finally emptied during the last

night I was in the hospital. It was placed so unobtrusively that I actually

never new it was there. After that, my incision felt tender, but not painful,

so it took care of the more intense pain, without my needing to feel it, until

that passed.

6.

I read ahead on this issue and think Cam

probably provided the most helpful answer for you so I won’t add

anything.

I know what you’re

facing is scary. I think most folks who’ve had the surgery (whether new

op patients or those who are several years past their surgeries) would assure

that you’ll be glad, afterwards at some point, that you chose to have

your surgery. I can only hope that your surgery and hospital experience is as

event-free as mine was. I have no complaints regarding my care at the hospital;

the nurses were excellent, attentive, helpful, friendly. I could not have asked

for better. I even liked the hospital food. It was really good.

I had two drain

tubes (anterior and posterior); neither gave me any trouble nor were they

uncomfortable. Dr. Flemming placed them in such a way as to be sure they would

not bother me. They didn’t. I had an arterial IV. It didn’t bother

me either. It was placed high up on my chest and they used tape that I was not

allergic to. They removed it the day before I left.

I went to meet

the nursing staff before my surgery to ask them if there was anything I could

do to help them do their job to care for me. Jaws dropped. They seemed

genuinely grateful that I willingly wanted to participate in my care and healing

as much as they are charged to do. I don’t know if that had anything to

do with the excellent care and attention I received at their hands. I’m

inclined to think not because I had met only two of the nurses during my pre-op

visit and there were many more nurses who looked after me.

I wear a brace.

Dr. Flemming also wanted me to be fitted for it prior to surgery so I could

wear it a few days to see how it fit. If there were pressure points and

uncomfortable places, he wanted to make sure those were removed so I wouldn’t

have to deal with them following my surgery. I’m probably one of the few

people who LOVES the brace. It’s had to be reworked a couple of times

because of my weight loss and because I’ve changed shape. The orthopedic

people Dr. F used to do that have also been wonderful.

Like everyone

else, I’ve had ups and downs since coming home, but as folks with

experience will tell you, I’m only 8+ weeks post surgery and I’m

still healing so ups and downs are normal.

I’m glad I

had the surgery and I’m glad I went with Dr. Flemming. I like my new

shape and I LOVE being able to stand upright. It’s a blessing.

Kay

From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of rebeccamaas

Sent: Sunday, April 22, 2007 5:20

AM

Subject: [ ] a few

questions

My surgery is going to be in mid-July with Dr. Ondra

at Northwestern

in Chicago. I

had a couple that I'd like to ask. I apologize if

some seem a bit graphic, but I'd really like to know!!

1. For those of you who were still menstruating - I know that it

is " normal " to end up having your period right after you have

surgery. I am having 2 surgeries done a week apart, so I assume

that I wouldn't likely get another period after that second one..?

2. For those of you who may have had severe bladder problems and

self-cathed - was this difficult to continue after your surgeries?

My incontinence is most likely due to other things, so we're not

expecting the surgery to alleviate the need for self-cathing.

3. Were you guys able to sleep on your backs before surgery?? I

haven't been able to do so for a couple of years, because it causes

too much pain. Are you able to sleep on your back after surgery?

4. When sitting on the toilet, I sit all the way back so that (sorry

for the graphics) I can get my hands in front for the self-cathing

stuff. I've noticed in the past year that my tailbone seems to be

sticking out more and it rubs very uncomfortably on the toilet seat

as I am sitting. Has anyone else noticed strange things with their

tailbone? When I look at myself in the mirror after a shower, I see

a small lump that sticks out there, right above my " crack " . Most

people seem have a sway inward there right above their butt.

5. For those of you were thin going into the surgery - did you lose

a lot of weight after your surgeries? Over the past few years, I

have had a problem keeping weight on. I carry any weight in my

tummy and the rest of me is skinny. I already drink ensure shakes

and protein shakes to try to keep my weight from dropping. I also

dutifully eat my fair share of cookies and ice cream, haha

6. I have been on disability for two years now and Medicare will be

kicking in about a month before my surgery. I have fantastic health

insurance through my husband, and will therefore only be taking the

free Medicare coverage, not any of the extra coverage. Does anyone

have experience with this? Will it

interfere with my current

coverage through my husband, and make the surgery a billing

nightmare? Currently, I will only need to pay a $100 co-pay for the

surgery, then everything else will be covered 100%. I am hoping

that Medicare won't mess things up, but I won't hold my breath since

it IS a government program

Anyways, I probably have a lot more questions, but that is all I can

think of at the moment. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Guest guest]

I can only address two of your questions, . My period was due

the day after my first surgery, and guess, what, it came right on

time! Unfortunately, the hospital didn't have the proper " items " on

hand, but did eventually get them. My second surgery was exactly a

week later, and NO, I did not get another period then. Now, however,

I know it is past due for this cycle, and nothing has happened yet. I

have no idea when it will come now. But, I'm pre-menopausal, and have

months like that, anyway. The second question is about the weight. I

LOST weight in the hospital, but between two surgeries a week apart,

and all the restrictive diets that go along with that, PLUS AWFUL

hospital food I could barely stand eating, I lost around 6 pounds!

Sorry, other than that, can't help with the other questions.

Carol V.

>

> My surgery is going to be in mid-July with Dr. Ondra at

Northwestern

> in Chicago. I had a couple that I'd like to ask. I apologize if

> some seem a bit graphic, but I'd really like to know!!

> 1. For those of you who were still menstruating - I know that it

> is " normal " to end up having your period right after you have

> surgery. I am having 2 surgeries done a week apart, so I assume

> that I wouldn't likely get another period after that second one..?

> 2. For those of you who may have had severe bladder problems and

> self-cathed - was this difficult to continue after your surgeries?

> My incontinence is most likely due to other things, so we're not

> expecting the surgery to alleviate the need for self-cathing.

> 3. Were you guys able to sleep on your backs before surgery?? I

> haven't been able to do so for a couple of years, because it causes

> too much pain. Are you able to sleep on your back after surgery?

> 4. When sitting on the toilet, I sit all the way back so that

(sorry

> for the graphics) I can get my hands in front for the self-cathing

> stuff. I've noticed in the past year that my tailbone seems to be

> sticking out more and it rubs very uncomfortably on the toilet seat

> as I am sitting. Has anyone else noticed strange things with their

> tailbone? When I look at myself in the mirror after a shower, I

see

> a small lump that sticks out there, right above my " crack " . Most

> people seem have a sway inward there right above their butt.

> 5. For those of you were thin going into the surgery - did you lose

> a lot of weight after your surgeries? Over the past few years, I

> have had a problem keeping weight on. I carry any weight in my

> tummy and the rest of me is skinny. I already drink ensure shakes

> and protein shakes to try to keep my weight from dropping. I also

> dutifully eat my fair share of cookies and ice cream, haha

> 6. I have been on disability for two years now and Medicare will be

> kicking in about a month before my surgery. I have fantastic

health

> insurance through my husband, and will therefore only be taking the

> free Medicare coverage, not any of the extra coverage. Does anyone

> have experience with this? Will it interfere with my current

> coverage through my husband, and make the surgery a billing

> nightmare? Currently, I will only need to pay a $100 co-pay for

the

> surgery, then everything else will be covered 100%. I am hoping

> that Medicare won't mess things up, but I won't hold my breath

since

> it IS a government program

> Anyways, I probably have a lot more questions, but that is all I

can

> think of at the moment. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Pat,

Sounds like you could use a hug! I don't have either condition, but we have heard of the Arachioditis, some members do have that hopefully they will chime in. I understand your foot pain as my Mom has awful neuropathy in her feet from Diabetes, and you say what she say exactly, she struggles to sleep all the time from the pain. I too hated getting the bone scan, it was postional for me too, laying on my back before surgery was almost impossible for me too, very painful, they gave me something to relax me and I got through it barely. I'll keep my fingers crossed LaGrone will be able to help you, he's one of the best, and if anyone could operate on you he'd be one of them. I know when you are unable to sleep, the world can seem small and painful and hard( sure is for my Mom). What are they doing for your leg pain, any relief? Maybe if you get to a good doc that handles Neuropathy you might get some answers to help you rest better. My Mom is on a combo of med's after much trying and several doc's that really helps her, and truly despite Breast cancer and various problems she's seeming much more postive, just from being able to rest. I'm glad you shared, we are here for the good the bad and the trying, and know we are in your corner!

Colorado Springs

[ ] A few questions

Hi Everyone,

It's almost 3am and I'm still trying to get some sleep. I'm so tired of being tired all the time because it hurts so much to lay down and then I can only lay on my right side with my head elevated. I usually sleep sitting up, leaning forward on my coffee table. I would give anything to lay flat and stretched out on my bed. I went today for a bone scan, but because I can't lay flat on my back, the tech only scanned my right forearm. I was looking forward to seeing how my bones in my spine are. I'll get the test results tomorrow and get a copy to send along with my films and some records to Dr. LaGrone.

My question to you.... Do any of you have Arachnoiditis or RSD. I developed Arachoiditis almost immediately after getting a myelogram 2 months before my fusion surgery. Then I got RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) in both feet after the surgery. The Arach.. has progressed into Adhesive Arachnoiditis in my lumbar spine and it is possible I could have it elsewhere in my spine and brain. For those that don't know what Arach..is please goto http://www.burtonreport.com/InfSpine/AdhesArachIntro.htm It is even possible some of you may have Arachnoiditis, since this is one disease doctors don't want to talk about and some even deny there is such a disease, because it is doctor induced and also because radiologist report it as scarring. I had to send my films off to Hopkins Neuroradiology after one doctor suspected Arach.., to get a definite diagnosis. One neurosurgeon told me he wouldn't do any surgery on me because of the arach... so I worry that if I can get in to see Dr. LaGrone, that he might not want to do surgery either if necessary. Diane B. also has Arach., and I was really surprised she was able to have revision surgery.

I also have RSD in my feet, which I think is worse than Arach., for me. Both feet are dark purple and the muscles look wasted as my bones and ligaments really stand out. My toenails are deformed, thick and brittle. They are numb, yet it feels like I have glass and rocks in my slippers when I walk. I have constant burning tingling pain and the slightest cold will sky rocket the pain. In my left leg it has advanced to almost my knee and the other half way up my calf below the knee. Every doctor that first sees my feet thinks I'm diabetic, but I'm not. The really funny thing is, my feet never swell even when I have gone days without putting my feet up. When I do try sleeping in bed, having my feet up escalates the pain, so I will wake up after an hour or so in worse pain. It is because of the RSD that I sleep sitting up, so I can keep my feet on the floor.

I didn't mean for this to sound like I'm whining and crying. I want to know if anyone else has other diseases and did it effect or makes worse after having revision surgery. I'm praying Dr. LaGrone takes me and can do revision surgery, as I can't take sleeping the way I am and also being so bent over. Also I'm 65 and worry maybe my age will keep me from getting help too.

You all are so great in sharing and helping everyone. It feels like you are one big family and are there for each other. How wonderful and amazing.

Pat E. .

[Guest guest]

Pat,

I'll try to burn an extra copy of the CD before sending it off to

. Please email me privately with your address, and I will

let you know when I get it sent off.

As far as a doctor operating on you for revision when you have other

health issues - it depends on the surgeon, how comfortable they are

with handling your unique situation, if your conditions are stable or

progressing, and probably most importantly - what the actual " extra "

conditions are and how they may be affected by spinal surgery.

I don't know that much about RSD or arachoiditis, but I do have

severe multiple sclerosis, with many lesions on my brain and spinal

cord. I also knew upfront that I wouldn't be able to do all the

walking that others do to help with their recoveries. My surgeon was

comfortable with operating on me, because my MS was fairly stable,

and he's operated on many scoliosis spines where people are confined

to wheelchairs from CP or other conditions (so they aren't able to do

the walking aftewards either). We discussed the possible bad

scenarios/outcomes that might occur if my MS flared up, and we had a

game plan in place to address it. I would be cleared to get high

dose IV steroids as soon as 2 weeks post-op if necessary. It

wouldn't be ideal for my fusion, but the risk:benefit ratio was worth

it. He'd had to do that with a lady who had a severe RA attack after

her revision, and she ended up fusing just fine. Like I said, it's

not something they would like to do, and luckily I didn't end up

needing anything special for my MS afterwards, other than extra rehab

due to serious overall muscle weakness. But we knew that going into

the operation and were prepared.

So, my point isn't really to tell you everything that I went through

with my surgery, but to let you know that it may be possible for you

to go ahead with revision, even with " extra " issues. If the

circumstances are right, and if you & the surgeon feel that the

benefits outweigh the risks, then it may be a possibility. If you

really feel that you would benefit from revision and the first

surgeon doesn't want to tackle it, perhaps you could look elsewhere.

Just be sure that both you and the surgeon feel comfortable and

secure with your decision.

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> It's almost 3am and I'm still trying to get some sleep. I'm so

tired of being tired all the time because it hurts so much to lay

down and then I can only lay on my right side with my head elevated.

I usually sleep sitting up, leaning forward on my coffee table. I

would give anything to lay flat and stretched out on my bed. I went

[Guest guest]

Hi Pat, I am so sorry you are suffering so much. I hope & pray you

can get Dr LaGarrone to operate on you. I told Dr Boachie I had AA &

it didn't make a bit of difference to him as far as operating. I

don't know if this happens to everyone who has AA but since my

Revision I feel a whole lot better. If you remember before my

Revision, I was always in the ER because even MS didn't always help

my pain. Since the Revision I have not had any ER visits,...not

even one & it will be 3 yrs June 8th. Having the Revision was one of

the best things I've ever had done, although for the 1st 6-9 months

I wondered if I did the right thing. It takes a very long time to

recover but so worth it. Remember I had that added complication of

the seizure 5 days post op & it did wipe out my memory............I

even forgot I had AA & didn't remember till 18 months after when I

found some old medical records. It jogged my memory & it all came

flooding back to me.

Love & Prayers,

Diane

>

> Dear Pat,

>

> Sounds like you could use a hug! I don't have either condition, but

we have heard of the Arachioditis, some members do have that

hopefully they will chime in. I understand your foot pain as my Mom

has awful neuropathy in her feet from Diabetes, and you say what she

say exactly, she struggles to sleep all the time from the pain. I too

hated getting the bone scan, it was postional for me too, laying on

my back before surgery was almost impossible for me too, very

painful, they gave me something to relax me and I got through it

barely. I'll keep my fingers crossed LaGrone will be able to help

you, he's one of the best, and if anyone could operate on you he'd be

one of them. I know when you are unable to sleep, the world can seem

small and painful and hard( sure is for my Mom). What are they doing

for your leg pain, any relief? Maybe if you get to a good doc that

handles Neuropathy you might get some answers to help you rest

better. My Mom is on a combo of med's after much trying and several

doc's that really helps her, and truly despite Breast cancer and

various problems she's seeming much more postive, just from being

able to rest. I'm glad you shared, we are here for the good the bad

and the trying, and know we are in your corner!

>

>

> Colorado Springs

> [ ] A few questions

>

>

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> It's almost 3am and I'm still trying to get some sleep. I'm so

tired of being tired all the time because it hurts so much to lay

down and then I can only lay on my right side with my head elevated.

I usually sleep sitting up, leaning forward on my coffee table. I

would give anything to lay flat and stretched out on my bed. I went

today for a bone scan, but because I can't lay flat on my back, the

tech only scanned my right forearm. I was looking forward to seeing

how my bones in my spine are. I'll get the test results tomorrow and

get a copy to send along with my films and some records to Dr.

LaGrone.

>

> My question to you.... Do any of you have Arachnoiditis or RSD.

I developed Arachoiditis almost immediately after getting a myelogram

2 months before my fusion surgery. Then I got RSD (Reflex

Sympathetic Dystrophy) in both feet after the surgery. The Arach..

has progressed into Adhesive Arachnoiditis in my lumbar spine and it

is possible I could have it elsewhere in my spine and brain. For

those that don't know what Arach..is please goto

http://www.burtonreport.com/InfSpine/AdhesArachIntro.htm It is even

possible some of you may have Arachnoiditis, since this is one

disease doctors don't want to talk about and some even deny there is

such a disease, because it is doctor induced and also because

radiologist report it as scarring. I had to send my films off to

Hopkins Neuroradiology after one doctor suspected Arach.., to

get a definite diagnosis. One neurosurgeon told me he wouldn't do

any surgery on me because of the arach... so I worry that if I can

get in to see Dr. LaGrone, that he might not want to do surgery

either if necessary. Diane B. also has Arach., and I was really

surprised she was able to have revision surgery.

>

> I also have RSD in my feet, which I think is worse than Arach.,

for me. Both feet are dark purple and the muscles look wasted as my

bones and ligaments really stand out. My toenails are deformed,

thick and brittle. They are numb, yet it feels like I have glass and

rocks in my slippers when I walk. I have constant burning tingling

pain and the slightest cold will sky rocket the pain. In my left leg

it has advanced to almost my knee and the other half way up my calf

below the knee. Every doctor that first sees my feet thinks I'm

diabetic, but I'm not. The really funny thing is, my feet never

swell even when I have gone days without putting my feet up. When I

do try sleeping in bed, having my feet up escalates the pain, so I

will wake up after an hour or so in worse pain. It is because of the

RSD that I sleep sitting up, so I can keep my feet on the floor.

>

> I didn't mean for this to sound like I'm whining and crying. I

want to know if anyone else has other diseases and did it effect or

makes worse after having revision surgery. I'm praying Dr. LaGrone

takes me and can do revision surgery, as I can't take sleeping the

way I am and also being so bent over. Also I'm 65 and worry maybe my

age will keep me from getting help too.

>

> You all are so great in sharing and helping everyone. It feels

like you are one big family and are there for each other. How

wonderful and amazing.

> Pat E. .

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Bee,

>

> I started this diet a few weeks ago and I have some questions.

> I am up to 1000mg vit C and 2-3 tbsp coconut oil a day. My die-off symptoms

are acne, diarrhea, extreme dry skin, red dry eyes and fatigue. I have celiac

(diagnosed 2007) and osteopenia (2008). I have low body temperature and other

thyroid symptoms, but blood work always normal.

+++Hi Anni. Just so you know, all candida sufferers have celiac disease.

>

> I have been taking 3000 IU Vit D because my level was only 17 when tested, do

you still think it's OK to lower to your recommended dose?

+++No, I do not recommend taking more of any one supplement because laboratory

tests say they are low. That is because your body will re-balance all of its

nutrient levels as it heals, and taking more of one causes problems. For

example, if you take more vitamin D you will need to take more cal/mag.

>

> I don't have heartburn or nausea, but diarrhea 2-4 days in a week, would I

benefit from taking HCI?

+++You may benefit, but diarrhea is mainly due to getting rid of toxins.

>

> Would I benefit from doing enemas at this time, which kind of enema should I

start out with?

+++Yes you would benefit by doing enemas; start with coffee enemas.

>

> Is ascorbic acid powder as good as vit C tablets?

+++Ascorbic acid is only one of many nutrients in " true " vitamin C. So tablets

must be taken because they contain bioflavonoids and other nutrients, but you

can take a mixture of both and do okay.

>

> If I drink chicken broth should I skip calcium and magnesium supplements on

those days?

+++If your broth is soaked in an acid prior to cooking and cooked long enough so

it is mineral-rich, and you consume 2 mugs of it any particular day you can skip

cal/mag supplements.

>

> I am so grateful to have found your site, I believe I'm on my way to great

health:)

+++Good for you Anni! You go girl!

The best to you, Bee

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi everyone Im

>

> I have been trying to fuly get on the candida diet for about 3 months not but

have slowly been making progress. I have been having the drunk feeling and alot

of dashavoo (sry spelling) I just want to know if this is common??

>

>

Hi

I think is common to feel drunk if you are eating the good stuff after years of

bad stuff. I know I do and lots of things can come up so stay the course and all

will be well. If I may ask, why are you not fully on the diet?

Pesky Neal

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi everyone Im

>

> I have been trying to fuly get on the candida diet for about 3 months not but

have slowly been making progress. I have been having the drunk feeling and alot

of dashavoo (sry spelling) I just want to know if this is common??

>

+++Hi . Yes it is very common to feel drunk when you have candida,

since candida produces over 79 different kinds of toxins, but most of them are

alcohol. So you will get feelings just like a person gets when they have a

hangover, which includes headache, brain fog, dizzyness, etc. These symptoms

are also called die-off symptoms, which includes many other symptoms - to

understand die-off symptoms see this article:

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/heal2.php

Do you mean deja vu, which are feelings that a new situation had occurred

before?

It is important that you get completely on the diet, and ensure you are taking

all of the supplements. Are there reasons you are taking so long?

All the best, Bee

[Guest guest]

Hi Bee,

Yes that is what I mean Deja vu. Is that normal to have it so much with

Candida??

THe reason I have taken so long is because in the begining I was telling myself

that I could not have anything and it was not working so I have been slowly

eliminating things. I am almost their though so yay!

I am having trouble with when I have die off symptomes such and retraching a

panic attack I reach for food that I should not have because I get scared that I

am going to die. DO you have any suggestions of what to grab instead of food

that I should not eat? I have done the Vitamin C and the deep breathing but I

get in such a panic state.

Also I have been having alot of problems with muscle fatigue this is normal

correct it is a die off symptom??

> >

> > Hi everyone Im

> >

> > I have been trying to fuly get on the candida diet for about 3 months not

but have slowly been making progress. I have been having the drunk feeling and

alot of dashavoo (sry spelling) I just want to know if this is common??

> >

> +++Hi . Yes it is very common to feel drunk when you have candida,

since candida produces over 79 different kinds of toxins, but most of them are

alcohol. So you will get feelings just like a person gets when they have a

hangover, which includes headache, brain fog, dizzyness, etc. These symptoms

are also called die-off symptoms, which includes many other symptoms - to

understand die-off symptoms see this article:

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/heal2.php

>

> Do you mean deja vu, which are feelings that a new situation had occurred

before?

>

> It is important that you get completely on the diet, and ensure you are taking

all of the supplements. Are there reasons you are taking so long?

>

> All the best, Bee

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Bee,

>

> Yes that is what I mean Deja vu. Is that normal to have it so much with

Candida??

>

> The reason I have taken so long is because in the begining I was telling

myself that I could not have anything and it was not working so I have been

slowly eliminating things. I am almost their though so yay!

@@@ Open all your drawers and cupboards and get a big garbage bag and throw the

junk in. Don't be tempted to give it to someone else. Don't save it for a treat,

(another great word when it comes to food). Throw it away.

>

> I am having trouble with when I have die off symptomes such and retracing a

panic attack I reach for food that I should not have because I get scared that I

am going to die. DO you have any suggestions of what to grab instead of food

that I should not eat? I have done the Vitamin C and the deep breathing but I

get in such a panic state.

@@@ Grabbing food that you shouldn't eat. Do you want to get well? Keep the good

stuff around and eat it and the sooner you do this the sooner you will get well.

I know that feeling with 3 major healing reactions I have had. I thought death

was near and here I am writing you a letter. Comfort food, (i love to hate these

two words together) will comfortably put you in the hospital. The only food

worse for health is that you will be served there. They scrimp on their food

budget in hope that you will become a life long customer and they have to pay

tons of money to skilled men & women to remove organs from living human beings.

Why else would they cut like that?

>

> Also I have been having alot of problems with muscle fatigue this is normal

correct it is a die off symptom??

@@@ Muscle fatigue and a plethora of other TEMPORARY side effects do arise and

they will go away. There will be challenges and they are just that. Actually you

want them because that means that bad stuff in you is leaving and it is way

better to have that stuff outside you than inside you. It's like that unruly

person you just got up the strength for and kicked out of your house. There is a

lot of screaming and threats and when the door closes behind them it's peaceful.

@@@ , if I sound mean i'm not trying to be and I have grown weary of

sugar coating things, my food and my words.

@@@ Can I say one more thing? There is something attractive for me about folks

that can research the facts and then live their life accordingly. Too many folks

are wishy washy, uncommited and think everything in moderation. They think that

way because they are addicts.

>

>

Neal and still venting.

>

> ---

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Bee,

>

> Yes that is what I mean Deja vu. Is that normal to have it so much with

Candida??

+++Hi . You can be assured that anything you experience on this program

is going to be a normal way for your body to react during the healing process.

Here's an article about re-experiencing emotional, mental, etc. issues during

healing: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/heal10.php

>

> THe reason I have taken so long is because in the begining I was telling

myself that I could not have anything and it was not working so I have been

slowly eliminating things. I am almost their though so yay!

+++Good for you !!!

>

> I am having trouble with when I have die off symptomes such and retraching a

panic attack I reach for food that I should not have because I get scared that I

am going to die. DO you have any suggestions of what to grab instead of food

that I should not eat? I have done the Vitamin C and the deep breathing but I

get in such a panic state.

+++If you think you are going to die, the last thing you need are foods that

will increase your panic attacks. It is important to " not have " foods in your

home that are not on the diet, so you aren't tempted. Here's some things to

help you curb your cravings:

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/help3.php

>

> Also I have been having alot of problems with muscle fatigue this is normal

correct it is a die off symptom??

+++Yes, since muscle fatigue, aches, pains and symptoms are caused by toxins,

which will circulate and move around the body. In order to help alleviate such

symptoms do things that help your body detoxify, i.e. Epsom salt baths, coffee

enemas, dry skin brushing, etc.

+++Please read more about die-off symptoms so you understand what you can

expect: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/heal2.php

All the best, Bee

[Guest guest]

Thanks for all your help and support Bee and Neal

from PA

> >

> > Hi Bee,

> >

> > Yes that is what I mean Deja vu. Is that normal to have it so much with

Candida??

> >

> > The reason I have taken so long is because in the begining I was telling

myself that I could not have anything and it was not working so I have been

slowly eliminating things. I am almost their though so yay!

>

> @@@ Open all your drawers and cupboards and get a big garbage bag and throw

the junk in. Don't be tempted to give it to someone else. Don't save it for a

treat, (another great word when it comes to food). Throw it away.

> >

> > I am having trouble with when I have die off symptomes such and retracing a

panic attack I reach for food that I should not have because I get scared that I

am going to die. DO you have any suggestions of what to grab instead of food

that I should not eat? I have done the Vitamin C and the deep breathing but I

get in such a panic state.

>

> @@@ Grabbing food that you shouldn't eat. Do you want to get well? Keep the

good stuff around and eat it and the sooner you do this the sooner you will get

well. I know that feeling with 3 major healing reactions I have had. I thought

death was near and here I am writing you a letter. Comfort food, (i love to hate

these two words together) will comfortably put you in the hospital. The only

food worse for health is that you will be served there. They scrimp on their

food budget in hope that you will become a life long customer and they have to

pay tons of money to skilled men & women to remove organs from living human

beings. Why else would they cut like that?

> >

> > Also I have been having alot of problems with muscle fatigue this is normal

correct it is a die off symptom??

>

> @@@ Muscle fatigue and a plethora of other TEMPORARY side effects do arise and

they will go away. There will be challenges and they are just that. Actually you

want them because that means that bad stuff in you is leaving and it is way

better to have that stuff outside you than inside you. It's like that unruly

person you just got up the strength for and kicked out of your house. There is a

lot of screaming and threats and when the door closes behind them it's peaceful.

>

> @@@ , if I sound mean i'm not trying to be and I have grown weary of

sugar coating things, my food and my words.

>

> @@@ Can I say one more thing? There is something attractive for me about folks

that can research the facts and then live their life accordingly. Too many folks

are wishy washy, uncommited and think everything in moderation. They think that

way because they are addicts.

> >

> >

>

> Neal and still venting.

> >

> > ---

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi there! This is again. I had a few questions that I would like to

throw out.

>

> First off, I am looking for a multi-vitamin for my daughter. Can anyone here

recommend a good multi-vitamin I can purchase for her that doesn't contain

sugar, soy, additives, etc, etc...?

+++Hi . Please do not use any multi-vitamins, since they are often of

low quality, since that many nutrients cannot be jammed into one product. They

also won't contain the correct amount of nutrients, nor the correct kinds.

+++Give your daughter the same supplements I recommend - see this article for

children's doses: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/baby.php

>

> Also, I found a Magnesium drink and it sounds ok, but I just wanted to get

an opinion on wether I made a good pick and should or should not stick with it;

I bought a Magnesium supplement by Gillham's Natural Vitality line. On the

back of the bottle it states there is no: yeast, dairy, egg, gluten, soy, wheat,

sugar, starch, preservatives or artificial color or flavor. Also no added

fructose.

>

> It also states it is made with certified organic raspberry & lemon flavors

and certified organic stevia.

+++No, that product shouldn't be taken, not even when a person is healthy.

>

> Also, i had a question regarding fruit. I know that it was mentioned that the

sugars from fruit help feed candida and what i am wondering is if one can eat

fruit AFTER they have been on the diet and healed their body and the Candida has

been turned back to a friendly form of yeast?

+++No, fruits aren't good for anyone.

>

> I really cannot imagine eating JUST meat, good oils & low-carb veggies the

rest of my life.

+++I do, and I don't feel I'm deprived in any way. I find fruits and other

sweets grate on me, since they are just too sweet for my tastes.

>

> Also, are there receipes for different foods a person can eat post-diet?

+++When you are healthy you can have any foods in my article Foods That Damage,

Foods That Heal: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/heal13.php

>

> And my last question, for the moment, is when my daughter swims in a

swimming pool that contains chlorine and other chemicals is there anything I can

put on her skin that will lower the amount of chlorine absorbed by her skin or

something I can put onto her skin after she, or I swim, that will draw out the

chemicals from the pool?

+++Most pools don't allow putting oils on your skin, but if they do apply

unrefined coconut oil. After swimming she can take an Epsom salt bath.

Bee

[Guest guest]

Hi there! My name is , and I live in northern Illinois. I had my

original spinal fusion in 1989 at UW-Madison! The doctor you spoke of must have

been gone by then, and I was seen by Dr. Mann. I heard that he just

retired last year. I too was given the same set of restrictions that you were

given as far as horse-back riding, skiing, etc. I was told that having kids was

fine, and successfully had 2 girls a few years back. I didn't have Harrington

rods - they were using the " next generation " Luque rods in 1989. Unfortunately,

they didn't hold off flatback for me, and I had revision surgery in 2007.

I would not bother going back to UW Madison for a consult, especially if you see

someone who focuses on children's scoliosis issues. I went there in 1999 when I

was first having some troubling symptoms (which turned out to be multiple

sclerosis, but the flatback was clearly visible on my x-rays at that point!),

and my former surgeon told me that my fusion looks beautiful and to look

elsewhere for answers to my troubling symptoms.

We moved out near Los Angeles for a few years, and I saw a couple of regular

orthos out there, all of whom said " Wow, what a long fusion - it looks solid!

What a great job! Go look elsewhere for answers to your problems. " It wasn't

until moving back to northern Illinois that I came upon online groups like this

where people were talking about various post-fusion issues that I decided to

look into it further.

I chose to consult with a revision surgeon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in

Chicago, and then had my revision surgeries there in the summer of 2007. I

don't believe there is anyone at UW Madison who has extensive revision

experience. I recall one member who went with someone there, but she hasn't

posted much since her surgery, and I cannot remember her name. I was very happy

with the care and attention I received at Northwestern with Dr Koski, and he

would probably be worth having a consultation with since he is fairly close.

There is a very good group of revision surgeons in St Louis - Drs. Bridwell and

Lenke.

If you would like more info about Northwestern, and on getting an appointment

there, please don't hesitate to ask. Typically it takes 3-4 months to get an

appt, but they do have a special spine program where they get patients with

serious spinal deformities in much faster.

Good luck with everything! Where in Wisconsin are you located? My parents grew

up in the tiny towns of Pittsville & Babcock - which are between Marshfield &

Wisconsin Rapids

>

>

> I'm new to the group and taken the suggestion to read through older

> posts before posting. I did find many inspiring and informative, and

> it's very reassuring to know that I'm not alone in this pain. However,

> I do have a few questions on topics that have been touched on, but I

> haven't seen specific answers to.

>

> Has anyone had surgery for endometriosis and has that helped with lower

> back pain? Has breast reduction surgery made a big difference in the

> pain and does that help long term? Also will surgeons operate on

> someone significantly overweight (230 pounds) and will losing weight

> alone alleviate the pain?

>

> This is my story. I wore a milwaukee brace from age 9 until 13, when my

> doctor said I was growing " too tall " and it wasn't helping anymore, that

> my curves (upper and lower) were getting significantly worse. I'm not

> sure of exact numbers but I believe it was over 80 degrees. At age 14 I

> had a spinal fusion done at the University Hospital in Madison, WI by

> Dr. Denis Drummond, in 1980. Has anyone else had him as a surgeon? I

> believe he went on to practice at Children's Hospital in Philadelphia.

> I believe I was also one of the first in the country to have two

> harrington rods in my fusion.

>

> I remember at my last post op doctor visit being told to avoid horse

> back riding, skiing, and that I wouldn't need to come back unless I had

> children or a serious car accident. Since neither happened (I was

> pregnant twice but had two early miscarraiges) I never went back except

> in 2003 when I had a TIA (small stroke). At that time they said my

> fusion looked fine.

>

> I realise I have been very lucky, I've had a few bouts with pain (mainly

> from lifting heavy objects) through the years, that would get better

> with rest. I thought of my scoliosis as a childhood problem that had

> been fixed. Until about two years ago, when I started getting severe

> lower back pain constantly. Also I've had pain in my leg, weakness, and

> sciatic nerve, that I attributed to my stroke, but now I wonder. I have

> occasional numbness in my fingers and toes, that my neurologist thought

> may be neuropathy, but tests ruled that out. I have tightness and pain

> in middle of my back, and neck. I've seen a chiropractor and physical

> therapist, but these various pains aren't getting better.

>

> I was shocked to read about flatback and realise all of this may be

> related to my harrington rods! Does anyone know any doctors anywhere in

> the state of Wisconsin that I could start with? Do I need to return to

> the University Hospital where I had my original spinal fusion?

>

> I really appreciate everyone's help and support. Thank you.

>

[Guest guest]

---In , " kylene_f " <kferbrache@...> wrote:

>

> Hi all! I am new to the group. I have been following a similar diet but I used

to take tons! of anti-fungles. I have since finding this group stopped

everything except the coconut oil.

+++Hi ne. Welcome to our group.

I am slowly incorporating (because of money) the supplements you all recommend.

I have a question. I bought from whole foods nutritional yeast. It is red star

brand. I have been taking two tablespoons a day. I split up the dose but I do

not get any reaction from it. No flush, no itch. Am I supposed to? I am not new

to nut-yeast so is my body just used to it?

+++It can take time for you to get a niacin flush from the yeast flakes, which

involves other nutrients as well. In order for niacin to flush out toxins you

need to be getting enough of the good fats, and since you are new to the program

it takes time to increase your fats because they cause more healing/detoxifying

reactions.

+++You will get a flush when your body is ready.

Also, I get so sick with nausea from the egg drink. I used to only be able to

take a sip or two. Now I can drink two eggs, two TBS butter, two TBS coconut

oil. It still makes me nauseous although I can get it down. It has been a few

weeks. Will this ever go away? I guess I am surprised I still have this reaction

to it. yuck. Thanks to all of you who spend time everyday answering our

questions. You are all so helpful.

+++You might need to take Betaine hydrochloric acid (HCl) which may help the

nausea - see this Stomach Acid article:

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/dig14.php

+++Since you a new please ensure you follow " Curing Candida, How to Get Started "

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/intro1.php

For encouragement and inspiration see these wonderful Success Stories by members

of this group: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/success/index.php

All the best, Bee