Re: Hello to all to Bob

[Guest guest]

Dear Bob,

I am so glad you have turned to us for help and support. You appear

to be going through a most difficult phase in your journey with this

disease and it's times like that when you need the comfort of others

who truly understand what you're going through.

Your issues with unrelenting pain are disturbing. No one should have

to deal with this much. You need to address this to your GI and

insist that he or she work harder to find an appropriate pain

medication regimen that will allow you more relief. Have you seen a

pain management specialist? What pain medications has your

gastroenterologist tried for you thus far? Sometimes one narcotic

will work better for an individual than another, and people often

have to try several to find the right combination. You say you're

wearing a duragesic patch. What dosage is it and what are you using

for breakthrough pain?

Many of us take enzyme supplements when we eat to help with the pain

caused by eating. Are you on enzymes? I understand about the fish

oil tablets, I take them myself, even though my tryglyceride levels

are normal. They are supposed to be beneficial for malabsorption and

heart problems, which I have, as well as for persons with high

triglycerides.

I see that a few members have already written to you with information

about the pancreatectomy, so I will not repeat their comments, except

to say that this is something you may wish to look into further.

Many have seen too much misunderstanding and strife with their family

relationships because of this disease. I consider myself blessed for

the understanding and support that my family gives me with my

problems with CP and diabetes, yet I know this is not the case for

many. Even with the best of support, it is still a medical problem

that alters your life in so many ways. It can frequently pull you

down so far spiritually, that you need to seek out others who

understand.

Please let us know how we can help you. There's a wonderful group of

sufferer's here that try so hard to help each other, and often do, by

sharing their experiences and knowledge.

With hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & SE Regional Rep.

PAI, Intl.

Note: All comments and advice are personal opinion only, and

should not be substituted for professional medical consultation.