Hello

[Guest guest]

Hi, !

I think you pediatrician is not very enlightened. I have two children who have

been brain injured by vaccinations. I have learned the hard way that there is

no such thing as a safe vaccination. Anyone who vaccinates is gambling with

their life, especially infants and small children.

Hang in there, and stick to your guns, no matter what!

Hello

I am new to this group and glad I found you. I had yet another heated

conversation with my sons' pediatrician this week. I have two sons, one is

18 month old and the other is four years old. My second son has received

only one shot so far, for polio, because we were travelling this summer. Our

pediatrician calls vaccinating a moral duty, which I find highly

objectionable (and which makes me a terrible mother for refusing them).

ly I am getting tired to battle the medical establishment on a regular

basis. I feel the need for more ammunitions, which I hope to gain by joining

your group.

I am also 6-month pregnant with our third child.

C.

[Guest guest]

, thanks for your message. I am so sorry about what happened to your

children. It really infuriates me to read about your experience and to think

about all the times I've had to resist bad " medical " advice on immunization.

> From: " Steinbach " <tsteinbach4@...>

> Reply-Vaccinations

> Date: Fri, 26 Oct 2001 13:49:45 -0400

> <Vaccinations >

> Subject: Re: Hello

>

> Hi, !

>

> I think you pediatrician is not very enlightened. I have two children who

> have been brain injured by vaccinations. I have learned the hard way that

> there is no such thing as a safe vaccination. Anyone who vaccinates is

> gambling with their life, especially infants and small children.

>

> Hang in there, and stick to your guns, no matter what!

>

>

> Hello

>

>

> I am new to this group and glad I found you. I had yet another heated

> conversation with my sons' pediatrician this week. I have two sons, one is

> 18 month old and the other is four years old. My second son has received

> only one shot so far, for polio, because we were travelling this summer. Our

> pediatrician calls vaccinating a moral duty, which I find highly

> objectionable (and which makes me a terrible mother for refusing them).

> ly I am getting tired to battle the medical establishment on a regular

> basis. I feel the need for more ammunitions, which I hope to gain by joining

> your group.

> I am also 6-month pregnant with our third child.

> C.

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I would find a new pediatrician. It will only get worse and usually no amount

of research is going to sway their opinions. Yes, I had a friend who gave me

that line of " It's my civic duty to vaccinate " the herd immunity line. I've

been able to find to vaccination liberal pediatricians in my area. One does

homeopathy and a family practice (no he's not " classical " but my insurance

covers him) and the other does anthroposophical medicine which combines some

homeopathy and herbs as well. Both great alternatives to the run of the mill

pediatrician. Welcome.

L.

Proud mom to Autumn 1-13-97 & Zoe 8-8-00

Hello

I am new to this group and glad I found you. I had yet another heated

conversation with my sons' pediatrician this week. I have two sons, one is

18 month old and the other is four years old. My second son has received

only one shot so far, for polio, because we were travelling this summer. Our

pediatrician calls vaccinating a moral duty, which I find highly

objectionable (and which makes me a terrible mother for refusing them).

ly I am getting tired to battle the medical establishment on a regular

basis. I feel the need for more ammunitions, which I hope to gain by joining

your group.

I am also 6-month pregnant with our third child.

C.

[Guest guest]

Hi !

I'm pretty quick to respond to most everyone's posts these days, as

I spend a lot of time in my bedroom reading, chatting, talking on the

phone, and just generally recovering. Welcome aboard to a new " face " .

I've had more than my share of dental fun...five root canals, the first

one done at a dental school (no insurance at the time) with SIXTEEN

TRIPS!!! I was about ready to bite off the poor guys's hand. I put

several of them through their thesis, I'm sure. Anyway, I hope your

recovery is swift. I've heard of those tens units before. I know they

have worked for a friend of mine with bad feet. Just so everyone knows,

I am really NOT on line all the time, just happen to have a webtv with a

message light at the foot of my bed that even makes a little sound when

a new message comes in....I can't resist looking....I'm hopeless. I

feel like the receptionist! Ha! Do you like the flowers and the new

couches? Nice touch, huh?

Today I am in my studio across the street glazing a bunch of majolica

ware pottery for Christmas and a little sale at school where I work...my

husband, of course will enjoy carting it all over and back since I can't

lift anything heavier than a gallon milk container.

Carol, if I haven't made it plain as day yet, you are my new best

friend...thanks for ALL of your help. I still haven't had to test the

little blue pill. Thank GOd.

[Guest guest]

At 07:05 PM 01/23/2002 -0000, you wrote:

>Hi I am a new member of the group and would just like to say hello to

>everyone and tell you about my prediciment (any help would be

>appreciated).

>

>I am 36 from the UK (Gloucestershire) and have an 8 year old daughter

>who has had all the recommended jabs as well as everything needed to

>visit Africa, and a 9 week old baby who has not had anything yet.

>

>After researching the DTP, Polio, Men C and Hib jabs and the damage

>they can do I decided not to let her be vacinated until I research

>everything I can, I have got my GP to order Infanrix DTP Hib which

>does not contain mercury but am considering waiting until Asha is 6

>months to have any vacinations at all and then not all of them.

>

>I am very interested in Homeopathic vacinations and would love to

>know more - I had homeopathy for a problem I had after the birth, I

>am not sure how well it worked but I feel it did something for me.

>

>Best Regards

>

>Jane

>

Hi Jane,

Welcome again. As you know, I think all vaccines are extremely dangerous

at any age. Are you going to AFrica with the baby (or was that for a

previous trip?)

Also am not in agreement with routine homeopathic vaccination (similar with

most classical homeopaths I know) unless you are in imminent danger of

contracting something. I will send some articles to the list again as so

many of you are new!

I would see a homeopath to discuss.

In the UK

http://www.homeopathy-soh.org/

quality homeopaths can be found here to have a consultation.

More info on homeopathy

http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/homeo.htm

article I wrote

Are you breastfeeding? That is also very helpful.

I don't know personally any homeopath in Gloucester area - I have one in

Wales - Abergavenny and I know another in Swansea and an excellent one in

Bath. The list should help.

You will learn a lot here. The key is to educate yourself about the

diseases and the knowledge of homeopathy so that you no longer have the

fear of them that has been programmed into us. I truly fear the vaccines

more than any of the diseases.

But it takes a lot of research

Sheri

--------------------------------------------------------

Sheri Nakken, R.N., MA

Vaccination Information & Choice Network, Nevada City CA & Wales UK

$$ Donations to help in the work - accepted by Paypal account

vaccineinfo@...

(go to http://www.paypal.com) or by mail

PO Box 1563 Nevada City CA 95959 530-740-0561 Voicemail in US

http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm

ANY INFO OBTAINED HERE NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS MEDICAL OR LEGAL ADVICE. THE

DECISION TO VACCINATE IS YOURS AND YOURS ALONE.

Well Within's Earth Mysteries & Sacred Site Tours

http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin

International Tours, Homestudy Courses, ANTHRAX & OTHER Vaccine Dangers

Education, Homeopathic Education

CEU's for nurses, Books & Multi-Pure Water Filters

[Guest guest]

Hi Margie, I'm glad you've rejoined the Group. And I'm always thrilled to

meet another Mothering reader!

I think homeschooling is great. Matter of fact, that's what my gameplan is.

Only thing is, I hope you aren't homeschooling just because of the vaccine

thing. Yes, there are a few horror stories, but for the most part those are

people who simply didn't know what their rights were.

One day, nonvaxxers will be the majority. Truth eventually prevails. After

all, how many doctors do you see using leeches for bloodletting? Vaccination

is on the same par.

Kathleen

Vaccine info at http://www.whale.to/vaccines.html <A

HREF= " http://www.whale.to/vaccines.html " >VaccineWebsite.com</A>

http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm <A

HREF= " http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm " >Vaccination Information & Choice

Net

work - Vaccine/Vaccination/Immunization Dangers</A>

www.vaccinationnews.com <A HREF= " http://www.vaccinationnews.com/ " >New Page 1</A>

If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least once

in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things. ~ René Descartes 1596

-1650

In a message dated 2/11/2002 10:19:58 AM Central Standard Time,

mwhite128@... writes:

> Hello. My name is Margie and I was part of this list about a year ago. I

> didn't say much but I learned a lot. I have two children. My daughter had

> one shot - hep B and my son has never been vaccinated. I decided not to

> vaccinate because when I got pregnant I started reading a magazine called

> Mothering. It introduced me to a lot of new ideas. Well there was a big

> write up about vaccines and I just had to research after that. I decided

> that doctors were not gods and are in business for money and health is my

> responsibility. For me and my family this has been a great change. My

> family and friends however view me as bizarre and think I just want to be a

> rebel. They tell me I am endangering my children. My aunt is a nurse and

> keeps on me and I do know she is trying to be nice and share what she

> knows. Thanks to Phyllis I do homeopathic remedies instead of traditional

> medicine for my family and we eat MUCH better. I am homeschooling my

> children so I do not have to deal with school waivers...I have heard the

> horror stories. I am glad to be with people educated about vaccines and

> health. I wish there were more of you in my area. I feel like a major

> minority.

>

> Margie

>

[Guest guest]

Hello Kathleen. Thanks for the encouragement! I am sure the truth will show

when my kids are healthy in their later years and live long healthy lives.

I am homeschooling for much more than vaccines but it was a good excuse. I love

my children and it is a wonderful opportunity to share time, knowledge and love.

I quit my full time job in August to start and it has been the best. I can see

the difference in my children. I should have stayed home from the start.. one

of those lessons I learned the hard way.

Blessings,

Margie

Re: hello

Hi Margie, I'm glad you've rejoined the Group. And I'm always thrilled to

meet another Mothering reader!

I think homeschooling is great. Matter of fact, that's what my gameplan is.

Only thing is, I hope you aren't homeschooling just because of the vaccine

thing. Yes, there are a few horror stories, but for the most part those are

people who simply didn't know what their rights were.

One day, nonvaxxers will be the majority. Truth eventually prevails. After

all, how many doctors do you see using leeches for bloodletting? Vaccination

is on the same par.

Kathleen

[Guest guest]

Hi! :

When I was 6-month pregant, I was told my daughter had

AV Canal heart defect and she might have DS. Since we

decided not to do the test to know whether she had DS

or not, I just prayed God to give me peace to go

through the pregnacy. Indeed, there was sometime I was

so sad to think about it. But my husband kept

reminding me that I had to be peacful and joyful and

that was the best for our baby at that time. We were

referred to a bigger hospital just because of her

heart condition.

Thank God. SHe was very pink when she was born. She

received heart surgry when she was 4-month-old. She

was kind of changed to another person after the

surgrey. She ate better and very active. Like other

parents , I don't want to trade her for anything. She

is almost 14-month-old. She is such a joy to all of

us. With more and more information you are going to

have, you would have faith in your son. He would grow

up beautifully. Good Luck and take care!

( mom of Joanna-almost 14-month-old)

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

Hi! :

When I was 6-month pregant, I was told my daughter had

AV Canal heart defect and she might have DS. Since we

decided not to do the test to know whether she had DS

or not, I just prayed God to give me peace to go

through the pregnacy. Indeed, there was sometime I was

so sad to think about it. But my husband kept

reminding me that I had to be peacful and joyful and

that was the best for our baby at that time. We were

referred to a bigger hospital just because of her

heart condition.

Thank God. SHe was very pink when she was born. She

received heart surgry when she was 4-month-old. She

was kind of changed to another person after the

surgrey. She ate better and very active. Like other

parents , I don't want to trade her for anything. She

is almost 14-month-old. She is such a joy to all of

us. With more and more information you are going to

have, you would have faith in your son. He would grow

up beautifully. Good Luck and take care!

( mom of Joanna-almost 14-month-old)

__________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

I didn't know about ny before he was born. I had a hard pregnancy. from

the day i found out i was pregnant until he popped out {literally}. I am

lucky to have been very pain free & natural for my deliveries. And super

fast!! Like 2 hours total!!! Anyhow, When i waas about to get that test at 20

weeks a problem arose & i never was tested. I think for me that was good. I

look at it from both ends. If i had know we could have delivered in a better

hospital, not a birthing center. But i also would have been a wreck & my body

was trying from day 1 to rid my self of the pregnancy. So if i did know the

worry might litterally have killed him. We have finally made it past year1.

Heart surgery, hospital stays drs drs drs, and i can honestly say i wouldn't

change a thing about my ny. He is the angel who is leading me down the

path of fortune hope & love. It is very hard somedays when things happen, but

i can always look at my s miling little man and feel overwhelmed & overtaken

by love.

{{ DeStefano{{

{ Mommy to: Lynn & {

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{

[Guest guest]

Hi and welcome to the group. I am pretty new here to. My 8 y/o

daughter was diagnosed in May (last month) with A. This board has

been such a support and place of learning that I am sad for those who

had to suffer with with out it. Now that you have found it be sure to

go back and read a good mix of the posts that are here. I found that

it also helped to look up individual words in the search box. Good

luck and hope you enjoy the group as much as I do.

Christy

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 7/25/02 8:07:12 PM GTB Daylight Time, homeschl2@...

writes:

<<

I am a mother SAHM of 3 children, two girls an 8yr and 4yr old, and a

6month old boy. >>

Welcome to the list.Good health to you and yours!

Sara in ohio

[Guest guest]

Hi Angie...I think I will introduce myself also.

My name is Tonja. I have 4 kids and one on the way. My 2 yr old has only

recieved half of her vacc's for her age, my 10yr old is missing one shot

(Hep my 1yr old has only recieved his first set of shots at like 2mos,

and my 5 yr old has recieved about half for her age also.

I joined the group, since I am going to be taking out my 10yr old from

school. He is one shot short of his Hep B series and they said he has one

week or he has to leave. So I have decided to take him out and homeschool

once again.

I looked into the exemptions and none really apply to us. So really this

was an answer to prayer last week.

I am nervous, and wondering what retalliations will come about~but I will

stick to my convictions and be strong. I could use any support I can get

too.

I look forward to meeting ya'll.

Hugs,

Tonja in Texas

-- Hello

Hi everyone! I'm Angie and I'm happy to finally be here. My daughter is

16 months old and we haven't had any shots yet. I'm not entirely sure

why. Actually, that is why - I'm not entirely sure one way or the other.

I'm here to learn more so I can make a better decision or at least back

up the choice I seem to have already made.

When I was pg I had not questioned the idea of vax. I had a friend of a

friend who is very " crunchy " mention that she had not done any of her

kids. She opened my eyes to all kinds of ideas I had never thought of -

tandem nursing, home births, non-vax. I decided to do more research but

would hold off on the shots til I knew more. Then I had the baby and

have been too busy to do much so we're still just holding. My ped.

doesn't like it - he says if we differ on this issue we're bound to

differ on others and I'd be better off finding another ped. Now I just

see his CNP and we get along fine. She thinks I'm waiting til just

before school (3 or 4) and doesn't mention it any more.

Anyway, I don't mean to ramble, I just wanted to say hi. I'll mostly be

lurking, just collecting info. since I don't have much to add.

Thanks,

Angie

[Guest guest]

Contact Dawn At PROVE

you do NOT have to get vaccinations

She can help in Texas

Hopefully he escaped the horrible damage that hep b can give

Dawn prove@...

Parents Requesting Open Vaccine Education (PROVE)

8601 Crest View Rd.

Austin, TX 78737

(512) 288-3999

http://vaccineinfo.net

Exemptions: http://www.vaccineinfo.net/txrequirements/requirements.htm

Welcome

At 09:43 AM 09/24/2002 -0700, you wrote:

>Hi Angie...I think I will introduce myself also.

>

>My name is Tonja. I have 4 kids and one on the way. My 2 yr old has only

>recieved half of her vacc's for her age, my 10yr old is missing one shot

>(Hep my 1yr old has only recieved his first set of shots at like 2mos,

>and my 5 yr old has recieved about half for her age also.

>

>I joined the group, since I am going to be taking out my 10yr old from

>school. He is one shot short of his Hep B series and they said he has one

>week or he has to leave. So I have decided to take him out and homeschool

>once again.

>I looked into the exemptions and none really apply to us. So really this

>was an answer to prayer last week.

>

>I am nervous, and wondering what retalliations will come about~but I will

>stick to my convictions and be strong. I could use any support I can get

>too.

>

>I look forward to meeting ya'll.

>Hugs,

>Tonja in Texas

>

>-- Hello

>

>Hi everyone! I'm Angie and I'm happy to finally be here. My daughter is

>16 months old and we haven't had any shots yet. I'm not entirely sure

>why. Actually, that is why - I'm not entirely sure one way or the other.

>I'm here to learn more so I can make a better decision or at least back

>up the choice I seem to have already made.

>

>When I was pg I had not questioned the idea of vax. I had a friend of a

>friend who is very " crunchy " mention that she had not done any of her

>kids. She opened my eyes to all kinds of ideas I had never thought of -

>tandem nursing, home births, non-vax. I decided to do more research but

>would hold off on the shots til I knew more. Then I had the baby and

>have been too busy to do much so we're still just holding. My ped.

>doesn't like it - he says if we differ on this issue we're bound to

>differ on others and I'd be better off finding another ped. Now I just

>see his CNP and we get along fine. She thinks I'm waiting til just

>before school (3 or 4) and doesn't mention it any more.

>

>Anyway, I don't mean to ramble, I just wanted to say hi. I'll mostly be

>lurking, just collecting info. since I don't have much to add.

>Thanks,

>Angie

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

---

Hello Kathy,

You will learn a lot from this group. Everyone hear knows what you

are talking about and feeling and can offer support, guidance,

whatever you need.

I just had the laporascopic heller myotomy on Nov. 25. I was

diagnosed in May, began having symptoms in August 2001. I,too,

greatly suffered from the reflux. Before the surgery, I hadn't slept

through the night in about eight months. Now, about a month after the

surgery, I am able to eat and sleep normally. I was very lucky to

have a very successful surgery, minimal pain and immediate relief.

The night of the surgery, I slept like a baby and have been since. I

would highly recommend the lap. myotomy..........but of course, it

depends upon where and who you trust to do the myotomy. Make sure you

are going to someone who has lots of experience. Since this is a rare

disorder, not every gastroenterolgist/surgeon is experienced in this

specialty. You should check out this group's database of doctors who

come highly recommended.

Good luck in your treatment. You can email me directly if you have

any questions...bhughes85@...

Beth...Grantham, NH

In achalasia , " kathylassiter <gka@w...> " <gka@w...>

wrote:

> Well, I spent a lot of time last night reading the postings and

> learning a lot and nodding a lot, and tonight I made it onto the

> list. So I don't know my way around(have never belonged to an

> online group before), but right off am interested in the results of

> Debbi's poll.

>

> I started having some trouble about two years ago when I was 53.

> Thanksgiving 2000 stands out very sharply because I remember

sitting

> at the table at my uncle and aunt's house and thinking it was all

> going to come up right there. That is where I mark the beginning.

> I had a barium swallow(or somthing), an EGD and manometry in Feb

and

> March 2001 and got the achalasia diagnosis. I was not familiar

with

> it even though I am a nurse. My family practice doc suggested

doing

> the normal environmental interventions which I did - elevate head

of

> bed, eat small amounts (well, what choice do you have!!!) not eat

> or drink before lying down (I need at least four hours). That

> helped. I went to an acupuncurist 3 times(loved the experience but

> didn't notice any improvement in symptoms so decided not to

> continue - kind of expensive). Also saw a naturopath who suggested

> eating organically, and at least eliminating any food additives,

> artificial colors and flavors, etc. When I started doing that I

> noticed immediate improvement. Cause and effect or coincidence I

> don't know. I no longer am consciencious about eating organically

> but do avoid additives and yeast.

>

> At first I was regurgitating so often at night that I finally just

> took a big towel to bed with me. The regurgitation tapered off and

> stopped after a year or so. Is that because my esophagus became

> more dilated and lazy and just lets the food sit there without

> forcing it up?

>

> I thought I was doing OK and was willing to deal with the symptoms

> (which if I was watchful were minimal over the last year), and

> didn't go back to the doctor about it. But I decided I wanted to

> know what was going on inside so requested a repeat EGD in

> November. The strong recommendation of the gastroenterologist who

> did it was to have a laparoscopic myotomy due to dilation of the

> esophagus. He said I needed to have something done or else my

> esophagus would eventually become so dilated it would cease to

> function.

>

> SO, I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SURGEON ON JANUARY 8th. I would

> like to hear from people who have had the laparoscopic myotomy, and

> from anyone who will write me about the condition and their

> experiences, especially over the long term.

>

> Up to this point I have been sort of avoiding thinking of achalasia

> as something with serious long-term ramifications, or thinking of

> myself as anything but perfectly strong and healthy. Actually I

> regarded it as kind of a blessing because I needed to lose the 102

> pounds that have come off over the past two years (achalasia as

> aversion therapy for obesity!). I don't need to lose any more. But

I

> am beginning to realize that this is serious business so I am glad

I

> have found this group to help me deal with it.

>

> Wishing you all the blessings of Christmas - Kathy Lassiter

[Guest guest]

Welcome Holly..love your kids names!

" Parents should decide through informed choice, which vaccines if any should

be

given to their children "

<A HREF= " http://www.theforgotten.com/vaccines/ " > Vaccine Information</A>

[Guest guest]

Hi Holly,

Welcome to the group. I'm Debbie SAHM to 2 sets of identical twins. None have

ever been vaccinated .

Debbie from IL

Holly <maymom@...> wrote:My name is Holly. I am 26 SAHM to iel

(5/96) and Jenavieve (5/02).

My husband is Jim and we live in lower Michigan. We practice attachment

style parenting.

>I was a single mother with iel and did all the shots like I was

suppose to. He is almost 7 and we are dealing with ADHD and learning

disabilities that I believe could be from the vaccinations he got.

>With Jenavieve, I never felt right about getting her the vaccinations. But

my husband believed they were for the best. After her four month shots, she

started to get ear infections. Her first one was a week after the Prevnar

shot. I started doing a little research and my gut was telling me no more.

So my husband and I talked and agreed to discuss vaccinations after she

turned a year. Until then, all vaccinations have stopped. I am gathering

facts for my husband on why the vaccinations should not start when she

turns a year old.

>I am also into homeopathic and herbal remedies. iel gets flax seed

oil and Kali Mer for his ADHD. It works wonders. I am fairly new to this

but am learning. I have a wonderful friend is who my teacher and I believe

fate brought us together. My goal is to have all OTC medication and

prescriptions out of my home by May.

>I have come to the list as I seem to be the odd man out on most of my

lists when it comes to vaccinations. So it would be great to be around

people who questions the value of vaccinations. I hope to get more educated

and stopped being questioned (and at times accused of being a bad mommy).

Holly;

iel (5/96) & Jenavieve (5/02)

~The Emerald Jewels~

[Guest guest]

Hi Will

Welcome to the board. You have found the right place to be for

understanding and support. You did not say if you were having lap

surgery or an open procedure. With either procedure, you will find a

wealth of information about either of these.

My husband had an open procedure eight weeks ago, and life is back to

normal now. Chet is able to eat anything and he just needs to use a

little extra water and take smaller bites. He has finally gained

back six pounds - he had lost about 30 pounds in less than two

months.

Keep us updated on your consult with the surgeon.

> Hi everyone. I have been a member of this group for a while but I

> haven't written anything. I've had achalasia since 1995. I've had

> the dilation 3 times but it hasn't lasted very long. I went from

210

> pounds to 155 pounds in about 8 months. I'm 5'11 " so I was very

thin.

> I've been able to get my weight back up to 175 and thats were I

like

> it. I've adjusted my eating habits over the last few years. I eat a

> lot of high calorie foods and take multivitamins daily. I am also

> very active and play different sports regularly. I have learned to

> eat during the whole day not just 3 meals. I eat a little at a time

> and drink a lot of water or soda. I've discovered its not a good

> idea for me to eat popcorn as it sticks to my 'E'. (it really sucks

> because i love popcorn). When I do I start choking at night after I

> fall asleep.

> I have a consultation on 3/19 with the surgeon I picked for a

> myotomy. I'm not sure what it exactly involves but i'm starting to

> get a little nervous.

> Well I hope this wasn't to much to write. If anyone could shed some

> light on what I have to go through I would appreciate it. I put a

> pic on here so everyone could put a face to my name.

>

> Thank you

> Will

[Guest guest]

Hi Will,

Glad you wrote. I found the group last November or so when I started thinking about having surgery and it has been a great blessing to me.

I started having symptoms in November 2000 and was diagnosed in spring of 2001 and had the lap Heller myotomy with Toupet fundoplication on Feb 5 this year. So far so good and I am really glad I did it.

Deciding to have the surgery was hard for me but it sounds like you have already decided to go for it so in a way the hard part is done!

I posted an account of my hospital experience on Feb. 11, postings 7703, 7704 and 7737.

I think I will go see if I can find your picture.

Where do you live and where will you have your surgery?

Kathy

Washington

Hello

Hi everyone. I have been a member of this group for a while but I haven't written anything. I've had achalasia since 1995. I've had the dilation 3 times but it hasn't lasted very long. I went from 210 pounds to 155 pounds in about 8 months. I'm 5'11" so I was very thin.I've been able to get my weight back up to 175 and thats were I like it. I've adjusted my eating habits over the last few years. I eat a lot of high calorie foods and take multivitamins daily. I am also very active and play different sports regularly. I have learned to eat during the whole day not just 3 meals. I eat a little at a time and drink a lot of water or soda. I've discovered its not a good idea for me to eat popcorn as it sticks to my 'E'. (it really sucks because i love popcorn). When I do I start choking at night after I fall asleep. I have a consultation on 3/19 with the surgeon I picked for a myotomy. I'm not sure what it exactly involves but i'm starting to get a little nervous. Well I hope this wasn't to much to write. If anyone could shed some light on what I have to go through I would appreciate it. I put a pic on here so everyone could put a face to my name.Thank youWill

[Guest guest]

Hi, Will!

I just joined this group. I'm learning a lot from all of these nice

people. I hope everything goes well for you.

Kirsten

> Hi everyone. I have been a member of this group for a while but I

> haven't written anything. I've had achalasia since 1995. I've had

> the dilation 3 times but it hasn't lasted very long. I went from

210

> pounds to 155 pounds in about 8 months. I'm 5'11 " so I was very

thin.

> I've been able to get my weight back up to 175 and thats were I

like

> it. I've adjusted my eating habits over the last few years. I eat

a

> lot of high calorie foods and take multivitamins daily. I am also

> very active and play different sports regularly. I have learned to

> eat during the whole day not just 3 meals. I eat a little at a

time

> and drink a lot of water or soda. I've discovered its not a good

> idea for me to eat popcorn as it sticks to my 'E'. (it really

sucks

> because i love popcorn). When I do I start choking at night after

I

> fall asleep.

> I have a consultation on 3/19 with the surgeon I picked for a

> myotomy. I'm not sure what it exactly involves but i'm starting to

> get a little nervous.

> Well I hope this wasn't to much to write. If anyone could shed

some

> light on what I have to go through I would appreciate it. I put a

> pic on here so everyone could put a face to my name.

>

> Thank you

> Will

[Guest guest]

Hi Will,

I think in the files on the site there are several stories posted by

the recently (in the past year) myotomized. They can tell you what to

expect. There are also some places online where you can find info on

Myotomy. I know my former school (where my mom taught and I grew up) the

University of Iowa, has a site called preparing for surgery. They list lots

of surgeries and Myotomy is one of them. Just do a little google searching

on the word Myotomy, you will get more info then you care to know!! This

will arm you with question.

I just remembered, in the files on the site is a message that was posted

called " questions to ask your doctor " .

Ask lots of questions! Pick your surgeon carefully! You will be fine.

JC

Hello

> Hi everyone. I have been a member of this group for a while but I

> haven't written anything. I've had achalasia since 1995. I've had

> the dilation 3 times but it hasn't lasted very long. I went from 210

> pounds to 155 pounds in about 8 months. I'm 5'11 " so I was very thin.

> I've been able to get my weight back up to 175 and thats were I like

> it. I've adjusted my eating habits over the last few years. I eat a

> lot of high calorie foods and take multivitamins daily. I am also

> very active and play different sports regularly. I have learned to

> eat during the whole day not just 3 meals. I eat a little at a time

> and drink a lot of water or soda. I've discovered its not a good

> idea for me to eat popcorn as it sticks to my 'E'. (it really sucks

> because i love popcorn). When I do I start choking at night after I

> fall asleep.

> I have a consultation on 3/19 with the surgeon I picked for a

> myotomy. I'm not sure what it exactly involves but i'm starting to

> get a little nervous.

> Well I hope this wasn't to much to write. If anyone could shed some

> light on what I have to go through I would appreciate it. I put a

> pic on here so everyone could put a face to my name.

>

> Thank you

> Will

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Will,

Welcome to the group (even though you 've been with us for awhile)!

You know, I still have problems with popcorn even after surgery (but sometimes I just have to have it anyway, and pay for it later).

The first time I went in to see my GI doctor, we discussed all my options. He recommended surgery as being the longest lasting and most effective treatment, so surgery it was. I hadn't found this group yet so I was very much in the dark about which way to go. I let my doctor be my guide. I was scheduled for an endoscopy and a manometry over the next couple of months. The endoscopy was easy, I slept through most of it. The manometry wasn't fun, in fact it can be down right humiliating, especially when you throw up all over the technician ( which in my case, my technician was prepared for) but it's not the worst thing I've ever been through. The manometry is necessary to have done in order to to be considered for surgery. There are alot of postings explaining the procedure in detail if you go to the group site and search for manometry, (in the right hand corner) you might be able to find some detailed messages.

Within a couple of weeks after my manometry results, I was on my way into surgery. (my surgeon loves doing myotomies, and he rearranged his schedule to fit me in! )

Good luck with your consult next Wednesday! I hope you've found a wonderful doctor who will have you on your way back to eating again. You'll feel so much better.

Take Care.

Sandi in No Ca

-----Original Message-----From: WILLSent: Tuesday, March 11, 2003 11:42 PMachalasia Subject: HelloHi everyone. I have been a member of this group for a while but I haven't written anything. I've had achalasia since 1995. I've had the dilation 3 times but it hasn't lasted very long. I went from 210 pounds to 155 pounds in about 8 months. I'm 5'11" so I was very thin.I've been able to get my weight back up to 175 and thats were I like it. I've adjusted my eating habits over the last few years. I eat a lot of high calorie foods and take multivitamins daily. I am also very active and play different sports regularly. I have learned to eat during the whole day not just 3 meals. I eat a little at a time and drink a lot of water or soda. I've discovered its not a good idea for me to eat popcorn as it sticks to my 'E'. (it really sucks because i love popcorn). When I do I start choking at night after I fall asleep. I have a consultation on 3/19 with the surgeon I picked for a myotomy. I'm not sure what it exactly involves but i'm starting to get a little nervous. Well I hope this wasn't to much to write. If anyone could shed some light on what I have to go through I would appreciate it. I put a pic on here so everyone could put a face to my name.Thank youWill

[Guest guest]

Hi--I am forwarding your message to the Kenya-AIDS group in the hope that

other Africans and list members will have ideas to share with you.

Maranatha is developing a home in Nigeria for people with HIV/AIDS and a

place to help end discrimination. I'm not sure what the location of the

home is, but they are seeking support and funding. Emma, perhaps you could

share the location/address of the new home as well?

M.

At 02:18 AM 6/30/2003 +0800, you wrote:

>Hi ,

> Tops of the sunday to you.I appreciate your concern on our

> venture.I know base on your interest,that you would help if the resources

> is there.I am praying that the Lord bless you exceedingly and make you

> suceed in your ventures,so that you can assist as your heart desires.

> I don't really have addresses of various organizations that can

> assist,please send me emails so that I can be able to write them.

> We dont now have a web address due to financial wherewithal,but we

> have a phone address which is 234-8037199264 and this e-mail address.

> Thanks again for your sincere concern,EMMA

[Guest guest]

Hi Dawn ....

Welcome to the group .... what a awful time you have had.

I too was so glad to find this group. Until that time I felt really

alone with this ailment. I am scheduled to have my surgery (myotomy)

in the next few weeks. I opted to go right to surgery instead of

a balloon dilation because of the risk of rupturing of the esophagus.

With all of your ailments, how are you coping at this time?

Calgary, Canada age 51

dawwnerr wrote:

HI there, I just joined this group.

Have had achalasia since 1980,

had the balloon treatment thingybob and they ruptured my esophagus,

sewed it back up <I almost died>, and then I had corrective

surgery

in 1985 after it closed back up again totally this time.

Recently I had an endoscopy and this doc found all kinds of loverly

new ailments, so I came to browse here and lo! and behold, here

is a

group of fellow...achalasians?

Wow, I wish this had been around a long time ago, for so long I

have

been the only one I know and usually the only one most doctors

know

with this disease. I often have had to explain to the MDs what

it is

I have. I do know it has affected me and my life immensely.

It is a

handicap that does not show and many people do not understand.

My name is Dawn, I am 53 and live in Southern California.

I now

have distal esophagitis, gastric erosions, gastroparisis, and

duodenitis, yuck.

good to be here, thanks

dawn

[Guest guest]

How lucky to have the option of a myotomy. That looks like a much simpler procedure than I had. My surgery was full-blown, where they went in from the front, so I have very long scars.

One thing I used to do that I thought helped was drink (alcohol). Since I quit drinking 13 years ago, I have been able to eat quite well, and I wash everything down with liquids. I have no peristalsis. My main problem is at night with the acid reflux. I was taking Prevacid and that worked well, but my HMO is balking, so now i am taking Protonix. I have to take zantac too with that or I wake up in extreme pain.

They have been trying to make me take Reglan, too, for years, but the side effects are awful for me. There are many things I don't eat well, lettuce and fruit and spaghetti for some reason. UP until now, I have just eaten whatever I can get down, but it looks like now I might have to watch what I eat. After the surgery, I was so glad to be able to eat, I just have eaten whatever I wanted.

Stress is a huge factor in my comfort. When I am under a lot of stress, I have more trouble. I still have chronic pain, and any bending over things such as gardening affect me adversely.

I am a tall and large boned person, and weighed 112 before the surgery and had a tube through my nose to my stomach to take the ensure. I remember I used to have to cook for my family and I would suck on the meat.

I guess I will now pursue information on changing my diet so that I will be able to eat for a good long time, I didn't know I had all this stuff going on. That will not be an easy thing to do, but it is better than losing the ability to eat again.

Looks like Achalsia is a lifetime thing. I would be interested to hear how other people are able to eat after they recover fully from the corrective procedures.

Again, it is so nice to be able to talk about this.

thanks, dawn

I opted to go right to surgery instead of a balloon dilation because of the risk of rupturing of the esophagus. With all of your ailments, how are you coping at this time?