Guest guest Posted July 7, 2008 Report Share Posted July 7, 2008 Barbara... I am so glad you are feeling better & your results are so good. Thank you for posting about the exhaustion & how people treat you. I am experiencing so much of that also. I was only diagnosed 10 months ago. I really didn't know what it was or what I was in store for. I really haven't told many people, but I'm starting to tell more now b/c people just don't understand why I'm so tired, so achy, not able to do all the stuff I used to with ease. But even after telling people, they still don't really get it. It helps to know that there really are others who understand. *hugs* Enjoy your time at the Cape. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2008 Report Share Posted July 7, 2008 This was a beautiful post Barbara!! Very positive and uplifting and just helped to make my day! I am sooo very happy for you that you are finding some relief! Those days, moments, hours, seconds even are such blessings to have! I am so glad you are able to get some things done and are resting and pacing yourself! I can't wait for you to be able to pick up your paint brushes!!! That trip to Cape Cod will be so amazing for you! I am praying that this RA continues to stay quiet for you!! From: Barbara <bcreedon@...> Subject: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL......... Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 12:00 PM Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows...... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2008 Report Share Posted July 7, 2008 What a wonderful post! I am happy for you. This gives all of us an uplift that each one deserves. Have a fantastic trip home and be sure to fill us in. Thanks, Shirley Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Hi Shirley: Thanks for posting to me. I am feeling good so far, and counting the days until I go home. I have 2 little granddaughters who are 2 and 1, that I can't wait to get my hands on. Wishing you pain free days. Hugs, Barbara From: nana2livi <s.p5315@...> Subject: [ ] Re: I AM HOPEFUL......... Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 4:06 PM What a wonderful post! I am happy for you. This gives all of us an uplift that each one deserves. Have a fantastic trip home and be sure to fill us in. Thanks, Shirley Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Hi : Thank you for your wonderful letter to me. I agree totally with you, that anytime we have without pain, is wonderful! I still can't believe how I am doing......the minute I woke up this morn.. I was testing my hands, feet, etc., then I stood up, and I could walk without fear of falling! You know how bad my feet and ankles have been for months and months, so I am totally shocked by all of this. My hands and wrists are a little painful, but nothing I can't handle. I am still very, very, swollen from the Pred., but my Rheumy said it will take at least 6 months for it to be gone. Darn it........I wanted it back to normal???? whatever that is!!! I have never told you this before , but you have been my inspiration in my daily struggle with RA. As we have written often, I know what you have to deal with, day in, and day out. You are amazing, just getting up and out, is a big thing for you each day. You are so young to have so many issues to deal with. But, you just dust yourself off, and go forward. How easy to just not get out of bed, pull the covers up and over yourself, and say, " forget it, it's not worth the time and effort anymore " . See, that's what I am talking about. I was truly housebound, my RA was winning, I was at the end of my rope with these feet, and that terrible pain. I can't walk outside in this awful heat and humidity, so I started walking, [ hobbeling ] in the house. Step by step. I do this a few times a day, set the timer, etc. I still use the elec. cart at the food store, as the floors just kill me. I am still very tired, but rest a lot, etc. I know you are getting out more and more, especially in the nice weather you are having. How wonderful for you to be able to do this, you must be so proud of yourself..... I am proud of you too. I do know what it takes for you to go out that door! I would say to myself, " If can get dressed, and out that door, then I can certainly try to get up on these feet and walk " . So, I did this when I could, no matter what or how I was feeling that day. It felt good mentally and physically.... a great sense of accomplishment for me. My Spirit was renewed! My feet aren't perfect, but right now, I am so thankful I am pain free. I am grateful for how ever long this lasts. I pray you will have pain free days. God Bless you in all ways. I hope you are still enjoying your bubble baths...... wish I could get into my garden tub for a bubble bath, but I can't get out of the tub!!!! My showers will have to do, but not the same as a " tubby " . I don't have to call the fire depart. to get me out of the shower, ha ha ha. Have a wonderful day. Hugs, Barbara From: Barbara <bcreedon (DOT) com> Subject: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... @gro ups.com Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 12:00 PM Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows...... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 omg, this sounds exactly like me. I am in so much pain. and the doctor is holdong off on steroids because i had infections and they got to clear up. according to the rheum doctor and my primary doctor tysm i will try harder From: Barbara <bcreedon (DOT) com> Subject: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... @gro ups.com Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 12:00 PM Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows...... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Barbara ty so much . I am reading all these letters and people are going through what i am and they are helping me so much talking about the medications and the thoughts in their minds are like mine clora kloey From: Barbara <bcreedon (DOT) com> Subject: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... @gro ups.com Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 12:00 PM Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows...... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Thanks so much for your nice letter. I am sorry to hear you have RA, and like you, I knew nothing about it either. You sure have a lot to deal with in a short time. You are so overwhelmed right now, plus, trying to explain to family and friends about RA, etc. I really don't think anyone truly knows how much we have to deal with all the time, except all these great people here. Each and every person here, whether they have 1 or multiple diseases, know the battle we all have to fight. Everyone here hates the tiredness, pain, etc., and knows fully, that people just don't get it. I wish it was simply take pain meds, rest, go out. That's what is so wonderful about this group, THEY DO KNOW, we can say exactly how we feel, good or bad, angry or sad, tired or not, and we don't have to apoligize!!!! They know exactly what we are going through! I feel like shaking some people when they just get that look....it makes me crazy! Just do the best you can for yourself, take one day at a time. That's what I have to do too. Wishing you pain free days, and I pray you will be feeling better soon. Hugs, Barbara From: keptoz <keptoz@...> Subject: [ ] Re: I AM HOPEFUL......... Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 10:37 AM Barbara... I am so glad you are feeling better & your results are so good. Thank you for posting about the exhaustion & how people treat you. I am experiencing so much of that also. I was only diagnosed 10 months ago. I really didn't know what it was or what I was in store for. I really haven't told many people, but I'm starting to tell more now b/c people just don't understand why I'm so tired, so achy, not able to do all the stuff I used to with ease. But even after telling people, they still don't really get it. It helps to know that there really are others who understand. *hugs* Enjoy your time at the Cape. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Hi Kloey: So nice to hear from you. Yes, this group is very special indeed. I know you feel better, just knowing someone here does know what you are going through. We all have struggles and many issues everyday. I want to welcome you to our group, and glad you found us. I know you don't feel good, and I hope your infection clears up soon. No fun having that! Yes, the squeaky wheel does get the grease! We have to really be our own advocate, and when we are in pain, the dr. has to listen to us. It is no fun suffering with agonizing pain, so if we have to be forceful in asking for stronger meds., so be it. Not all pain meds. work the same on everyone, and we have to find what works best for ourselves. I hope you get more relief soon. Please take care of yourself, and feel better soon. I am glad you have a very caring and supportive husband. I know that means everything to you. Wishing you pain free days, and may God Bless you always. Hugs, Barbara From: Barbara <bcreedon (DOT) com> Subject: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... @gro ups.com Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 12:00 PM Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows...... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 HI BARB, I'M SOO HAPPY FOR U!! IT'S NICE TO HEAR THAT SOME PEOPLE CAN REALLY GET OFF THE PRED. & B PAIN FREE. I WISH THAT WAS THE CASE FOR ME AS WELL BUT I'VE TRIED & I'M TOTALLY BEDRIDDEN.. IT SUX!! HOWEVER, I HAVE CUT DOWN TO 5MG.DAILY, THAT'S GREAT FOR ME. YOU ARE ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES BARB, SO KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK & DO WHAT U CAN, FOR AS LONG AS U CAN, BY ALL THE MEANS U CAN!!!!!! I KNOW WHEN I HAVE PAIN FREE DAYS I FEEL AWESOME, SO I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW YOU FEEL,BARB!! I'M GLAD THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO YOUR WRISTS OR HANDS,SO AWESOME!! I'M SURE YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN INSIDE & OUT, JUST BY THE WAY YOU COME ACROSS HERE IN THE RA GROUP!!!!! WELL, I KNOW I'M LUCKY TO HAVE YOU TO CHAT WITH,BARB. GOD BLESS,MELYNDAGAMEZ 7/8/08 7:57P.M.CENTAL [ ] I AM HOPEFUL......... Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows....... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 hi barb, i know what u mean about waiting to c your grandchildren. i don't have grandchildren mind you but i have a nephew,NOAH NOAH, i call him. I MISS HIM SOOO MUCH since my sisterwent back to her hub in CANCUN,MEXICO. she had him here in the states then took him away from me. I MISS NOAH TOO MUCH,TOO MUCH. i call him my gordito!! missing him everyday!! HOPE you have an awesome trip home to c your family & friends!!! be safe & may god bless,melyndagamez 7/8/08 8:32p.m.central [ ] Re: I AM HOPEFUL.......... Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 4:06 PM What a wonderful post! I am happy for you. This gives all of us an uplift that each one deserves. Have a fantastic trip home and be sure to fill us in. Thanks, Shirley Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 9, 2008 Report Share Posted July 9, 2008 Hi Melynda: So very happy to hear from you, and thank you for your kind words. It is really good that you have been able to reduce your pred. dose. WAY TO GO!!!!!!! You sure have a lot to deal with everyday, and I hope your pain meds. really work well for you. You know it is trial and error to find the right combination of meds. that work, and hopefully, you will be out of pain soon!!! Hard enough to be in bed all the time, so I pray that you will have pain free days. You need a break!!!! I hope your long weekend was good, and you got to the Fiesta Park. I am sure your hubby and daughter enjoyed the long weekend too! We all need a " fun break " , even for a day...... it renews our Soul and Spirit. I am still doing good, just had to take 2 Tylenol today. I sat too long, and was stiff and sore when I got out of my chair. Still trying to pace myself better. Just happy that I can do things here, at my own " slow " speed. Please take care, and know you are in my prayers. It is always nice to hear from you Melynda. God Bless you always, and in all ways. Hugs, Barbara From: Melynda Gamez <melyndagamez@...> Subject: Re: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL......... Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2008, 5:59 PM HI BARB, I'M SOO HAPPY FOR U!! IT'S NICE TO HEAR THAT SOME PEOPLE CAN REALLY GET OFF THE PRED. & B PAIN FREE. I WISH THAT WAS THE CASE FOR ME AS WELL BUT I'VE TRIED & I'M TOTALLY BEDRIDDEN.. IT SUX!! HOWEVER, I HAVE CUT DOWN TO 5MG.DAILY, THAT'S GREAT FOR ME. YOU ARE ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES BARB, SO KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK & DO WHAT U CAN, FOR AS LONG AS U CAN, BY ALL THE MEANS U CAN!!!!!! I KNOW WHEN I HAVE PAIN FREE DAYS I FEEL AWESOME, SO I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW YOU FEEL,BARB!! I'M GLAD THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO YOUR WRISTS OR HANDS,SO AWESOME!! I'M SURE YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN INSIDE & OUT, JUST BY THE WAY YOU COME ACROSS HERE IN THE RA GROUP!!!!! WELL, I KNOW I'M LUCKY TO HAVE YOU TO CHAT WITH,BARB. GOD BLESS,MELYNDAGAMEZ 7/8/08 7:57P.M.CENTAL [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows....... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara ------------ --------- --------- ------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 9, 2008 Report Share Posted July 9, 2008 hi barb,u r welcomed! we had FUN BUT IT RAINED SO WE JUST KINDA WENT WITH THE FLOW!! I'M GLAD THAT U R DOING GOOD, GOD WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS!! QUOTE FOR THE DAY: IT'S BETTER 2 LIGHT A CANDLE, THAN 2 CURSE THE DARKNESS. CHINESE PROVERB GOD BLESS MELYNDAGAMEZ 7/9/08 10:52P.M.CENTRAL [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... ..... Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows....... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore.. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara ------------ --------- --------- ------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 9, 2008 Report Share Posted July 9, 2008 GOOD NIGHT TO ALL & MAY ALL OF U HAVE A BLESSED DAY,TOMORROW!! MELYNDAGAMEZ 7/9/08 11P.M.CENTRAL [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... ..... Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows....... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore.. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara ------------ --------- --------- ------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 9, 2008 Report Share Posted July 9, 2008 Amen to that, and thanks...... From: Melynda Gamez <melyndagamez> Subject: Re: [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... .... @gro ups.com Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2008, 5:59 PM HI BARB, I'M SOO HAPPY FOR U!! IT'S NICE TO HEAR THAT SOME PEOPLE CAN REALLY GET OFF THE PRED. & B PAIN FREE. I WISH THAT WAS THE CASE FOR ME AS WELL BUT I'VE TRIED & I'M TOTALLY BEDRIDDEN.. IT SUX!! HOWEVER, I HAVE CUT DOWN TO 5MG.DAILY, THAT'S GREAT FOR ME. YOU ARE ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES BARB, SO KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK & DO WHAT U CAN, FOR AS LONG AS U CAN, BY ALL THE MEANS U CAN!!!!!! I KNOW WHEN I HAVE PAIN FREE DAYS I FEEL AWESOME, SO I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW YOU FEEL,BARB!! I'M GLAD THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO YOUR WRISTS OR HANDS,SO AWESOME!! I'M SURE YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN INSIDE & OUT, JUST BY THE WAY YOU COME ACROSS HERE IN THE RA GROUP!!!!! WELL, I KNOW I'M LUCKY TO HAVE YOU TO CHAT WITH,BARB. GOD BLESS,MELYNDAGAMEZ 7/8/08 7:57P.M.CENTAL [ ] I AM HOPEFUL..... ..... Hello Everyone: I wanted to write something positive to our wonderful group. I have been feeling so good for the past month, my RA is quiet, and my feet and ankles are happy. I have been on Pred. for 5 1/2 years, tried before to get off of it, but wasn't successful. I went from 10mg. a day, to 5 mg. a day, and stayed at this does for 2 months. I have been on 2.5 mg. a day for the past 2 weeks. I have never taken this lower dose before. I have had no pain or swelling anywhere, since I started this decreasing of Pred. I just can't believe it!!!!! I have not taken any pain meds., except for an occasional Tylenol. I start taking the 2.5 mg. every other day this Saturday, for 2 weeks, then every third day, for 2 weeks, and that's it!!!! I am so HOPEFUL everyone. I am taking .8 of MTX injection 1x a week, 2 Sulfasalazine 500 each, 3x a day =3,000 mg. a day, 2 Placquenal a day, and 2 Lecovorin a week. My MRI's of both feet, both hands and wrists, showed no damage anywhere, nor were any bones compromised. It was wonderful news!! I am still tired, resting often, and trying to pace myself, etc. I haven't picked up my paintbrushes yet, but I will do that this week. I have slight stiffness in the a.m., but that goes away shortly. I still can't sit too long, but that's o.k. I get up, do some things around the house, then rest for awhile. I just do the best I can each day. I am going home to Cape Cod Aug. 2 for a month. How I will be then, who knows....... that will be the true test!!! We moved here to S.W. Florida 4 years ago, because I couldn't take the weather there anymore.. This group has been my salvation. This RA scared the ---- out of me, as I had never heard of it before. I looked it up on the Internet, read a few things, never looked it up again. None of my family or friends knew anything about it either. They just didn't get it, " why, you look so healthy, beautiful, how can you be so tired " ? Try to explain that! " We are going shopping, etc. " , just come with us, you can rest later " . Great, but I can't walk too good, and I need to stop and rest!! All of us shopped until we dropped, now I can't do it!!! You all know what we have given up in our lives, so now I just focus on the things I can do, and I am very happy that I can do anything. I stopped saying " I'm sorry, I'm too tired or hurting, etc., and I can't go today " . I felt so guilty, they looked at me like I was a baby, and I was just getting lazy about things. Great for your moral. Then I found all of you caring, wonderful, people, who were going through so much of what I was going through, pain, suffering, tiredness, life changes due to these diseases, etc. I thank God everyday for all of you, just knowing how you all care, all the info. you have, the research gives us, your support system, and mostly, the compassion and true understanding of what we deal with 24/7 each and everyday of our lives. I am very lucky to be part of this group, and I count you all as " my friends " . Wishing everyone pain free days, and thanks again, for always being here, so understanding, and so helpful. You all have helped me so much, and you are so much a part of my life, truly. Hugs, Barbara ------------ --------- --------- ------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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