Sam and others, Bextra, Celebrex

December 18, 2004

Dear Everyone,

While new to this group and diagnosis, I actually have been having symptoms

for over 2 years.

My family doc (God Bless his Big Heart) was suspicious and sent me to a

rheumy then, but

his PA saw me instead and quite " matter-of-fact " said, " Lupus, here's some

info on the meds, etc. "

I panicked and didn't go back until last week. (After seeing an internist

for my anemia, etc.)

I am not stupid, but I find comfort in denial sometimes. This is scary and

painful. Now that my

ANA is getting higher, the ratio of lupus to RA is changing...looking more

like Lupus or both.

Thank God there are those of you that will take the time to vent, explain,

describe and help

those newbies of which I am a member. I have met so many who won't say

anything.

I always have felt comfort by sharing with everyone and getting suupport

and feedback from

everyone that wanted to talk.

Concerning Celebrex and Bextra. Odd as it may seem, there are no

coincidences in life,

I know the discoverers of the 2 enzyme, Dave Dewitt and Bill . I

have worked with

them for almost 25 years. They don't believe there is a problem, but I

will get more scientific

data from the " horses' mouth " on Monday. A quick explanation is that

aspirin is from the

willow tree (salix) so we have salicylic acid (aspirin) which is great but

can upset the stomach.

So, aspirin is divided to take only the anti-inflammatory components and

make it into a pill, and

leave behind the stomach upset...well, we'll see.

I pray all of you here have a peaceful night, and painfree dawn. You and

my lupus list are

all I have to speak honestly. My family would probably run and hide since

I am the " rock. "

But, God help me, I hope I am underestimating them.

Peace, joyce in MI (haslett)

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