Re : Vent

[Guest guest]

Hi Robin,

I may be the person referred to in another post who has lived with

this condition for a very long time. Having had severe abdominal

pain since early childhood, with a pattern of attacks that changed

over the years, going through different stages, I received my

definitive diagnosis only last year at the age of 57. This was

despite tests for pancreatitis in 1988 when I was probably at my

worst in terms of actual symptoms. The tests at that time did not

confirm the diagnosis of CP.

Anyway, enough about that. I certainly have been lucky in that I

have been able to work full time and am still doing so. My pattern

of attacks has left me enough pain-free or low-grade pain time to

pursue my career. (The exception was from 1986 - 88 when I was

pretty ill nearly all the time. When I look back now, I am amazed

that I did not simply resign.)

In 2000 the frequency and severity of my pains increased and, once

again, I was on the verge of resigning. Following the diagnosis, my

consultant pancreatologist put me on a regime of high doses of

Creon, no more than 100 grams of fat a day, no alcohol whatsoever,

frequent small meals rather than three large ones a day, etc. etc.

At the moment this regime is working for me and I feel considerably

better than I did.

I am really only writing now to offer my understanding about your

frustrations and to say that I wish I could do something to help.

This disease can go through differnt stages and patterns can change

and develop. One way or another, I do hope that soon you find

yourself moving forward from your present snese of hopelessness.

With very good wishes,

Fliss