Re: Just thought I'd say hello!to ee

July 31, 2004

Dear ee, I'm so sorry that you're feeling so low now. When I

was first dxd last April I was really feeling horrible at the time.

I also have Hep C and now my new rheumy has done more testing and

says that I don't have Lupus and it's the Hep C virus making me feel

so lousy. Either way, I feel sick everyday- horrible fatigue and

joint pain. I've expeienced all that you are feeling, the guilt (as

my husband does most all the housework and the shopping after

working as a Chef all day) and yes, feeling like my life as I knew

it has been taken from me. At first I was taking Xanax when I was

feeling really low, but finally I went to see a psychiatrist to deal

with the depression. I'm taking Effexor XR (anti-depressant) now and

it has helped me a lot. I'm still physically feeling pretty crummy

and haven't decided on treatment for the Hep C. But at least I'm not

crying everyday. I couldn't control it before. I wasn't able to see

any joy in anything. I can see some joy now. I'm 49 and have always

worked and been very independent. It's been a big transition for me.

The anti-depressants have helped a lot. This group is great. I was

able to meet with the some other Lupies in Florida a few weeks ago

and that was awesome. Hang in there. I'm thinking about you. With

luv, Robyn

> Hi everyone--

> > > Love,

> ee

July 31, 2004