I have noticed recently that there have been a recent incline in commercials advertising medications for Fibromyalgia.
I am going to get a lot of flack for this, so I am going to state right away, medication does work for some, and if it works for you I am so happy that you found something that makes your life easier.
The two main commercials I have been watching are for Lyrica, and Cymbalta, two I have tried and have been unsuccessful. These commercials remind me of an infomercial. You have the person leading the perfect life, doing things that without the medication would be absolutely impossible. Then in a low tone, with the speed of an auctioneer, you hear the side effects and who should not use it, while the person is walking with the sun shining, or chasing after children, or working and living a normal life.
If only it was this easy!
You might as well have Mr. T do the commercials.
Pop this pill and your life will return to normal, just ignore the nausea, the dizziness, the vertigo, the weight gain, heart racing, shakes, insomnia or excess tiredness, and you will be as good as new.
Its scary when they are using the same tactics for meds as they do for selling cars, beer, food or any other material item.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Disability Part Two
I wrote about Disability the other day, and today I am going to continue on that subject.
Disability is very helpful for those who are just diagnosed, or unable to get their Fibro under control. It is a pain in the ass to get, but once you are approved it gives you the freedom to take care of your own health. You are able to figure out what works best for your body.
However, should we think of it as a permanent solution? Are we then able to say, okay I have Fibro and I will never be able to work again. Once we are on disability do we become complacent.
When you are working you have that need for the money, the drive to get better, the need to have the doctors try to help quicker, the want to be able to live our daily life as we know it. Do we still have that when we have the security of disability?
There is no timeline, for some you can start to feel better, more active and productive, in months, two years, or as one friend I have ten years. Are you striving to get back to work? To live a life like the one you used to know, as close as possible at least?
Having Fibromyalgia does not mean that we are not able to work, we are no longer able to shop, to run errands, we just have to retrain our body, and figure out a new way to do it. Are you sitting on the couch, watching tv, not being active through out the day?
We should be using disability as a chance to get healthy and get back out to work. What are you doing while you are on disability?
Disability is very helpful for those who are just diagnosed, or unable to get their Fibro under control. It is a pain in the ass to get, but once you are approved it gives you the freedom to take care of your own health. You are able to figure out what works best for your body.
However, should we think of it as a permanent solution? Are we then able to say, okay I have Fibro and I will never be able to work again. Once we are on disability do we become complacent.
When you are working you have that need for the money, the drive to get better, the need to have the doctors try to help quicker, the want to be able to live our daily life as we know it. Do we still have that when we have the security of disability?
There is no timeline, for some you can start to feel better, more active and productive, in months, two years, or as one friend I have ten years. Are you striving to get back to work? To live a life like the one you used to know, as close as possible at least?
Having Fibromyalgia does not mean that we are not able to work, we are no longer able to shop, to run errands, we just have to retrain our body, and figure out a new way to do it. Are you sitting on the couch, watching tv, not being active through out the day?
We should be using disability as a chance to get healthy and get back out to work. What are you doing while you are on disability?
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Step Into Their Shoes - Disability
Many people living with Fibromyalgia are no longer able to live the life they want, or used to live before their diagnosis. This includes working, which is a necessity of life, unless you have a trust fund, married rich, or won the lottery.
Working with Fibro is near impossible if your symptoms are not under control, and even if your symptoms are under control it is still very difficult. We then turn to Disability. Applying for disability is a job in itself, that you wish you had an Assistant to do for you. You file the paperwork, go through interviews, have many doctors do examinations mental and physical. Then the majority of the time you are denied, and have to reapply.
I understand that some of these people are absolute idiots with no compassion or sensitivity. I will not say all as I am sure there are a few good ones, I am being hopeful on this. We go through the questions, the stares, the insinuations that it is mental, as well as the suggestions that we want on disability for the free ride. Sometimes it works, it does turn people off, and stop the process of the individual applying for disability. Is it deferring the right people?
Have you ever sat down and thought about it from their point of view? I know this is difficult, especially when they are going through the process. These individuals deal with hundreds, if not thousands of people a year, with a percentage of people who are faking the symptoms and trying to get a free ride. I have met a few of these people, as I am sure some of you have. Then we have a disease, that has not been recognized in every state, province, county, city, or country, as more than a symptom. There are few tests that diagnose it, actually really only the 18/19 point test (some doctors are doing 19 points now). These are employees who have been trained to look at the medical information given to them, including xrays, ultrasound, and test results. Which we are unable to give them.
We are the red flag. Before they have talked to us, they have reviewed all the information, as soon as they see Fibromyalgia it is a red flag, and it is not fair to us. However, how many people file using Fibro as their reason without actually having it. We are the individuals that have really no medical proof, yet we are going to the government saying "We are sick, we need help, we cannot work".
They are going to be extra cautious to approve a person with Fibromyalgia.
Although the Disability staff does have reasoning to be more cautious, it does not give them the ability or right to treat you with disrespect. They will, one person will definitely make a comment, or say something absolutely ridiculous.
"If you want money marry rich" (that was my favourite)
"You don't look sick"
"It is just mental"
"You are feeling overwhelmed that is all"
and the straight to the point comment;
"You are trying to scam the system" (I have had this numerous times)
No one, at any time as a right to speak to you with this kind of ignorance, disrespect, or lack of compassion.
Please remember though, when you get these comments, try to remember how many people they have who try to commit fraud, or that these employees have been trained to red flag us, or that in some cases they just are not to bright and can't get pass if they don't see it, it is not true (if there is no medical proof, it is not true). As many times they make the comment, as many times as they deny you, remember these things, because you will want to say something, you will get frustrated, and you will get extremely angry, but hold your tongue, and remember this is how they have been trained, and if you comment they will deny you on that alone.
Working with Fibro is near impossible if your symptoms are not under control, and even if your symptoms are under control it is still very difficult. We then turn to Disability. Applying for disability is a job in itself, that you wish you had an Assistant to do for you. You file the paperwork, go through interviews, have many doctors do examinations mental and physical. Then the majority of the time you are denied, and have to reapply.
I understand that some of these people are absolute idiots with no compassion or sensitivity. I will not say all as I am sure there are a few good ones, I am being hopeful on this. We go through the questions, the stares, the insinuations that it is mental, as well as the suggestions that we want on disability for the free ride. Sometimes it works, it does turn people off, and stop the process of the individual applying for disability. Is it deferring the right people?
Have you ever sat down and thought about it from their point of view? I know this is difficult, especially when they are going through the process. These individuals deal with hundreds, if not thousands of people a year, with a percentage of people who are faking the symptoms and trying to get a free ride. I have met a few of these people, as I am sure some of you have. Then we have a disease, that has not been recognized in every state, province, county, city, or country, as more than a symptom. There are few tests that diagnose it, actually really only the 18/19 point test (some doctors are doing 19 points now). These are employees who have been trained to look at the medical information given to them, including xrays, ultrasound, and test results. Which we are unable to give them.
We are the red flag. Before they have talked to us, they have reviewed all the information, as soon as they see Fibromyalgia it is a red flag, and it is not fair to us. However, how many people file using Fibro as their reason without actually having it. We are the individuals that have really no medical proof, yet we are going to the government saying "We are sick, we need help, we cannot work".
They are going to be extra cautious to approve a person with Fibromyalgia.
Although the Disability staff does have reasoning to be more cautious, it does not give them the ability or right to treat you with disrespect. They will, one person will definitely make a comment, or say something absolutely ridiculous.
"If you want money marry rich" (that was my favourite)
"You don't look sick"
"It is just mental"
"You are feeling overwhelmed that is all"
and the straight to the point comment;
"You are trying to scam the system" (I have had this numerous times)
No one, at any time as a right to speak to you with this kind of ignorance, disrespect, or lack of compassion.
Please remember though, when you get these comments, try to remember how many people they have who try to commit fraud, or that these employees have been trained to red flag us, or that in some cases they just are not to bright and can't get pass if they don't see it, it is not true (if there is no medical proof, it is not true). As many times they make the comment, as many times as they deny you, remember these things, because you will want to say something, you will get frustrated, and you will get extremely angry, but hold your tongue, and remember this is how they have been trained, and if you comment they will deny you on that alone.
Have A Sense Of Humour
Today I went for a brain scan. Not my first, it is my fourth or fifth. I suppose they are making sure the wheel is still moving, or at least the hamster is still breathing.
It is a very simple process, you go in they inject you with the radioactive material (you don't get any special powers from it, I wish I could at least fly), wait 45 minutes, and then they lay you down, pop your head into a machine while it circles and takes pictures for about 15mins. Very simple.
My theory is whether you are in a horrible mood, if you are going into the doctors or know you are going to get a needle, or have a medical procedure you do not piss anyone off. Go in with a good attitude and remember your manners and it seems to work. However, today it seems that I ran into everyone that was lacking a sense of humour.
I had my mother with me, and nothing worked. The jokes went right over these nurses heads, a good attitude, smiles, everything seemed to skip over them. I had a total of three nurses, or lab technicians, and none of them could joke around. I even made a joke when it took three attempts and two nurses to get a needle into my vein. But for some reason nothing. Normally I would say maybe it is because I am not funny, but no, not today, I was having fun, my mom was having fun, and the people in the waiting room were having fun along with us, just not the medical staff.
There were cancer patients, heart patients, chronic pain patients, and the last thing we need is a moody or unhappy person sticking us with a needle, or performing tests on us. A smile, a laugh, a nice word, goes a long way.
For all the medical staff out there, I understand you have bad days, but put yourself in your patients place. A smile, doesn't take much, heck it will even lessen the wrinkles, a kind word, a little dialogue goes a long way. It will put the person at ease, and make your day go alot smoother, and trust me a kind word goes a long way when you are digging a needle into the arm of a person.
A sense of humour, is it possible? Is it too much to ask for?
It is a very simple process, you go in they inject you with the radioactive material (you don't get any special powers from it, I wish I could at least fly), wait 45 minutes, and then they lay you down, pop your head into a machine while it circles and takes pictures for about 15mins. Very simple.
My theory is whether you are in a horrible mood, if you are going into the doctors or know you are going to get a needle, or have a medical procedure you do not piss anyone off. Go in with a good attitude and remember your manners and it seems to work. However, today it seems that I ran into everyone that was lacking a sense of humour.
I had my mother with me, and nothing worked. The jokes went right over these nurses heads, a good attitude, smiles, everything seemed to skip over them. I had a total of three nurses, or lab technicians, and none of them could joke around. I even made a joke when it took three attempts and two nurses to get a needle into my vein. But for some reason nothing. Normally I would say maybe it is because I am not funny, but no, not today, I was having fun, my mom was having fun, and the people in the waiting room were having fun along with us, just not the medical staff.
There were cancer patients, heart patients, chronic pain patients, and the last thing we need is a moody or unhappy person sticking us with a needle, or performing tests on us. A smile, a laugh, a nice word, goes a long way.
For all the medical staff out there, I understand you have bad days, but put yourself in your patients place. A smile, doesn't take much, heck it will even lessen the wrinkles, a kind word, a little dialogue goes a long way. It will put the person at ease, and make your day go alot smoother, and trust me a kind word goes a long way when you are digging a needle into the arm of a person.
A sense of humour, is it possible? Is it too much to ask for?
Thursday, August 4, 2011
I Hope It Is Not Just Me
I am hoping that it is not just me.
I am an absolute clutz, hurting myself without knowing how. If I am moving, there is a 100% chance that I can hurt myself. I am the one who walks into walls, and people just ignore it now.
I have hurt my wrist, but I have gotten so used to pain that I just ignore it most of the time, any kind of pain I ignore.
So the question is, are we really hurt, or is it the Fibro overreacting to a simple bruise?
Have you ever wondered? When do we need to go to the doctor right away, or when should we wait and see if it is actually serious or not?
Confusing, we are oversensitive to pain, but we learn to deal and our pain threshold increases constantly to compensate, but does that mean we ignore something like a sprain, or a fracture?
In the past I have ignored a fractured ankle, thinking it is the Fibro. I walked on it, carried my children, ran, did all the wonderful things you are not supposed to do, and found out years later it was actually fractured. All because I have a high pain threshold and have learned to ignore the pain.
Pain tells us when there is something wrong with our body. All we know is pain, so how do we know it is the Fibro or there is something wrong with our body?
I am an absolute clutz, hurting myself without knowing how. If I am moving, there is a 100% chance that I can hurt myself. I am the one who walks into walls, and people just ignore it now.
I have hurt my wrist, but I have gotten so used to pain that I just ignore it most of the time, any kind of pain I ignore.
So the question is, are we really hurt, or is it the Fibro overreacting to a simple bruise?
Have you ever wondered? When do we need to go to the doctor right away, or when should we wait and see if it is actually serious or not?
Confusing, we are oversensitive to pain, but we learn to deal and our pain threshold increases constantly to compensate, but does that mean we ignore something like a sprain, or a fracture?
In the past I have ignored a fractured ankle, thinking it is the Fibro. I walked on it, carried my children, ran, did all the wonderful things you are not supposed to do, and found out years later it was actually fractured. All because I have a high pain threshold and have learned to ignore the pain.
Pain tells us when there is something wrong with our body. All we know is pain, so how do we know it is the Fibro or there is something wrong with our body?
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Drugs
I have been doing amazing with controlling my Fibro. Today it is raining, and besides the fact that I am tired (2 kids will do that alone), I was able to get up and get moving.
Lately I have been having a few stomach issues that are not related to Fibro. The pain has stopped me from eating, and when I do try to eat something small I am fatigued right away. That is not important, anyways i have had an ultrasound done and they are waiting for the results. I have spoken to my doctor and it can be anything from scar tissue issues from my previous surgeries, or previous drug intake (from the prescription drugs dealing with Fibro), to just a fluke.
I have mentioned drugs and my problems with them previously. My recent issues have made me think again about what the drugs can do to your body, and this has made me want to remind everyone to make sure that everyone is educated in their choices with prescription drugs and Fibro. I have heard doctors tell me about possible side effects when you are taking the drug, but what is the side effect for taking the drug on a long term basis. Has a doctor ever told you what could happen to your kidneys, liver, or your system period if you are on the drug for a long period of time?
I understand that you are sometimes in so much pain, discomfort that you will try anything. If it works great, but what happens 40 years from now.
The majority of the prescriptions for Fibro patients have not been on the market long enough to see the long term effects. Some of the drugs are only conditionally approved.
We really need to start taking responsibility, and holding our doctors responsible for telling us the effects now and the effects that could happen in the future.
You are in pain now, what are you going to feel when your body can no longer clean the drugs out of your system (especially narcotics), or start to negatively affecting your body?
Please just question, and question the doctors answers.
Lately I have been having a few stomach issues that are not related to Fibro. The pain has stopped me from eating, and when I do try to eat something small I am fatigued right away. That is not important, anyways i have had an ultrasound done and they are waiting for the results. I have spoken to my doctor and it can be anything from scar tissue issues from my previous surgeries, or previous drug intake (from the prescription drugs dealing with Fibro), to just a fluke.
I have mentioned drugs and my problems with them previously. My recent issues have made me think again about what the drugs can do to your body, and this has made me want to remind everyone to make sure that everyone is educated in their choices with prescription drugs and Fibro. I have heard doctors tell me about possible side effects when you are taking the drug, but what is the side effect for taking the drug on a long term basis. Has a doctor ever told you what could happen to your kidneys, liver, or your system period if you are on the drug for a long period of time?
I understand that you are sometimes in so much pain, discomfort that you will try anything. If it works great, but what happens 40 years from now.
The majority of the prescriptions for Fibro patients have not been on the market long enough to see the long term effects. Some of the drugs are only conditionally approved.
We really need to start taking responsibility, and holding our doctors responsible for telling us the effects now and the effects that could happen in the future.
You are in pain now, what are you going to feel when your body can no longer clean the drugs out of your system (especially narcotics), or start to negatively affecting your body?
Please just question, and question the doctors answers.
Monday, August 1, 2011
The Dentist
I have been avoiding the dreaded dentist for over five years now, before I was officially diagnosed with Fibro, this week I could avoid it no longer.
The last time I went, they had to pull my back tooth, where a previous person who claimed to be a dentist did a bad root canal. Thank goodness it is the very back tooth, and I wont be having a gaping hole in my mouth, vanity always the foremost concern. However, after 8 needles of trying to numb that area with no success, and pulling half the tooth out, I could no longer take the pain. Now it is time to have the other half taken out and a full cleaning and all that wonderful stuff.
I went to the same dentist that pulled half the tooth out, he was wonderful before, and decided to go to him again. I had spoken to my doctor and his solution was for them to put me out completely as the numbing medicine no longer works with me. This dentist is also a surgeon and is licensed (I did check) to put me out.
I went in, filled out the paperwork. I went thru the paperwork, explained to the Admin Assistant, who was wonderful, that I had Fibro and all that wonderful stuff. They took me to the room, and there I waited. It took all my self control to not bolt out the door, it also helped that someone else drove me so I didn't have the car keys. After about 15 mins the dentist came in, asked how I was, and I replied don't want to be here. He asked what had happened, and why it took so long to come back, and I explained the whole Fibro thing and I was officially diagnosed. To my delight he said "glad you told me, I have other patients with Fibro, and I have to change how I treat you because of it".
Who knew? Well of course someone knew, I was the dolt. I was so worried about the pain factor, and having to go through with it and having to feel it all. What an idiot I was. I let fear overcome me, and didn't even bother to research the process, alternatives, or even call my dentist, I just completely ignored it. I should of known better with Fibro, you need everything healthy, and I was just ignoring a part of me that was getting more and more ill. I was an absolute fool.
Don't let fear ever run your life, research, get informed, there is always a way. Learn from my years of hiding in a box.
The last time I went, they had to pull my back tooth, where a previous person who claimed to be a dentist did a bad root canal. Thank goodness it is the very back tooth, and I wont be having a gaping hole in my mouth, vanity always the foremost concern. However, after 8 needles of trying to numb that area with no success, and pulling half the tooth out, I could no longer take the pain. Now it is time to have the other half taken out and a full cleaning and all that wonderful stuff.
I went to the same dentist that pulled half the tooth out, he was wonderful before, and decided to go to him again. I had spoken to my doctor and his solution was for them to put me out completely as the numbing medicine no longer works with me. This dentist is also a surgeon and is licensed (I did check) to put me out.
I went in, filled out the paperwork. I went thru the paperwork, explained to the Admin Assistant, who was wonderful, that I had Fibro and all that wonderful stuff. They took me to the room, and there I waited. It took all my self control to not bolt out the door, it also helped that someone else drove me so I didn't have the car keys. After about 15 mins the dentist came in, asked how I was, and I replied don't want to be here. He asked what had happened, and why it took so long to come back, and I explained the whole Fibro thing and I was officially diagnosed. To my delight he said "glad you told me, I have other patients with Fibro, and I have to change how I treat you because of it".
Who knew? Well of course someone knew, I was the dolt. I was so worried about the pain factor, and having to go through with it and having to feel it all. What an idiot I was. I let fear overcome me, and didn't even bother to research the process, alternatives, or even call my dentist, I just completely ignored it. I should of known better with Fibro, you need everything healthy, and I was just ignoring a part of me that was getting more and more ill. I was an absolute fool.
Don't let fear ever run your life, research, get informed, there is always a way. Learn from my years of hiding in a box.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
I Did It My Way
I went to my doctors this week.
He walked in and the same questions came out that always starts our visits;
"Hows the Fibro doing?"
I was actually able to say "Great".
My Doctor looked at me and was shocked. He asked "Really What Are You Doing?"
I told him, diet, exercise, and just taking it day by day. No more drugs, which meant no more side effects, increased fatigue, all those nice things.
His response
"You did what 95% of Fibro sufferers do not do, and that is do it the natural way, which is the most effective"
Okay, I remember you telling me exercise would help. However, I also remember you writing the tens of prescriptions, offering me narcotics, and then saying exercise, if I can manage it, on top of that. I was dumbfounded.
I Did It My Way. I found out what worked for me, and it is working.
He walked in and the same questions came out that always starts our visits;
"Hows the Fibro doing?"
I was actually able to say "Great".
My Doctor looked at me and was shocked. He asked "Really What Are You Doing?"
I told him, diet, exercise, and just taking it day by day. No more drugs, which meant no more side effects, increased fatigue, all those nice things.
His response
"You did what 95% of Fibro sufferers do not do, and that is do it the natural way, which is the most effective"
Okay, I remember you telling me exercise would help. However, I also remember you writing the tens of prescriptions, offering me narcotics, and then saying exercise, if I can manage it, on top of that. I was dumbfounded.
I Did It My Way. I found out what worked for me, and it is working.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Censoring
I was speaking with my mother today. Nothing like a mothers wisdom, I wonder when the wisdom will reach me.
We were talking about support groups, and how you have to kind of censor yourself while in the group. I realized I have been censoring myself with my blog. I am trying to be so correct, and take everyone's feelings into consideration, that I am not saying what I truly want to say.
I absolutely despise when others censor themselves with me, or sugar coat it, so why would I do it in my blog.
From now on, it is exactly what I want to say.
We were talking about support groups, and how you have to kind of censor yourself while in the group. I realized I have been censoring myself with my blog. I am trying to be so correct, and take everyone's feelings into consideration, that I am not saying what I truly want to say.
I absolutely despise when others censor themselves with me, or sugar coat it, so why would I do it in my blog.
From now on, it is exactly what I want to say.
My Idea
I mentioned recently that I had an idea. Rare, but yes I had an idea.
My idea, what was it?
A person live 48 hours in my shoes. Simulate as close as possible living with Fibromyalgia.
My mom, agreed to do an experiment, without knowing exactly what the experiment is. After I explained it to her, she said as long as I do not make her get sick to her stomach she is up for it. Brave woman.
The key now, is to figure out what to simulate the key aspects of Fibro.
Any suggestions, symptoms that you would like to see simulated, or thoughts, are welcomed.
My idea, what was it?
A person live 48 hours in my shoes. Simulate as close as possible living with Fibromyalgia.
My mom, agreed to do an experiment, without knowing exactly what the experiment is. After I explained it to her, she said as long as I do not make her get sick to her stomach she is up for it. Brave woman.
The key now, is to figure out what to simulate the key aspects of Fibro.
Any suggestions, symptoms that you would like to see simulated, or thoughts, are welcomed.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Simple Things Are Sometimes The Hardest
We make things more complicated. Simple as that.
Especially when you are living with Fibro or chronic pain, there are more things to consider, worry about and you seem to over think, over compensate, and it makes it more complicated than it seems, and makes us less likely to do anything.
10 errands, 10 simple tasks to a normal person, is more along the lines of 100 for you or I. Grocery Shopping, Making 3 Meals A Day, Laundry, Cleaning, Paying Bills, Showering and Getting Ready Is A Chore For US, and then if you have WORK, you are ready to collapse by 9am.
Then we are constantly worrying, thinking HOW ARE WE GOING TO FIND THE ENERGY, when am I going to have time, and then if you don't do them, the guilt is unbelievable.
Why? Why think about it?
Is there anything that important that you must do it today? If so do that one thing and say F" It to the rest (except work).
I found the key, is to stop worrying, and stop over thinking. Stop caring about what other people say and just do what you can. If you accomplish work, and making homemade meals YOU ROCK. If you do another thing, you are AMAZING, if you have a fantastic day SUPERWOMAN.
If anyone has anything to say about it, tell them where to go.
Especially when you are living with Fibro or chronic pain, there are more things to consider, worry about and you seem to over think, over compensate, and it makes it more complicated than it seems, and makes us less likely to do anything.
10 errands, 10 simple tasks to a normal person, is more along the lines of 100 for you or I. Grocery Shopping, Making 3 Meals A Day, Laundry, Cleaning, Paying Bills, Showering and Getting Ready Is A Chore For US, and then if you have WORK, you are ready to collapse by 9am.
Then we are constantly worrying, thinking HOW ARE WE GOING TO FIND THE ENERGY, when am I going to have time, and then if you don't do them, the guilt is unbelievable.
Why? Why think about it?
Is there anything that important that you must do it today? If so do that one thing and say F" It to the rest (except work).
I found the key, is to stop worrying, and stop over thinking. Stop caring about what other people say and just do what you can. If you accomplish work, and making homemade meals YOU ROCK. If you do another thing, you are AMAZING, if you have a fantastic day SUPERWOMAN.
If anyone has anything to say about it, tell them where to go.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Just One Day
I have always said that I would not wish Fibro, or Chronic Pain on my worst enemy. At times, I do question myself.
It is not with strangers, it is with family, friends, co workers, or any other person who is in my life on a consistent basis. On a daily basis I have someone telling me how I can feel better, improve my life, a new vitamin, trying to sympathize, or try to tell me that it really can't be that bad. I am in a much better place now, than I was a year ago.
I understand that it is coming from a good place. I try to remember that, some days are harder than others. Sometimes, and it is rare, the thought crosses my mind, "What would you do if you had to live with it for one day?". Today that thought crossed my mind.
It is not with strangers, it is with family, friends, co workers, or any other person who is in my life on a consistent basis. On a daily basis I have someone telling me how I can feel better, improve my life, a new vitamin, trying to sympathize, or try to tell me that it really can't be that bad. I am in a much better place now, than I was a year ago.
I understand that it is coming from a good place. I try to remember that, some days are harder than others. Sometimes, and it is rare, the thought crosses my mind, "What would you do if you had to live with it for one day?". Today that thought crossed my mind.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Support Groups
I have had the great pleasure of speaking with a few support groups that are not Canadian based.
It seems that some support groups, not all, have taken the attitude that I am trying to adopt. What is this attitude? Stop the complaining, Get up and GO!
Groups do activities, bike rides, raise money and awareness for Fibromyalgia on an ongoing, daily basis.
I am aware that there are a few groups in Canada and even fewer in my surrounding area that does bring awareness to our wonderful symptom, disease, syndrome, whatever you would like to call it. However, I have contacted no fewer than 21 support groups in the immediate area, general area, and a distance of 100km surrounding the city I live in. I have contacted over 50 across Ontario, and 100 across Canada. Not one support group, has a group specifically designated for the individuals in our support system, and about a handful across Canada have an exercise based group. None of these in Ontario. I could have just contacted the wrong ones, I am sure I did not contact them all.
Every support group was welcoming and suggested that I do come to a meeting, to sit, discuss how I feel, and to gather more information. I appreciate every offer. However, I am tired of discussing how I feel, I am tired of researching what is happening to my body, unless you have new research that has a sliver of hope that leads to a cure. I am ready to take action.
I am really trying not to judge, and I am positive that these groups do help and give people the support they need. However, when do you finally say "Okay, enough, it is time to get off my ass, stop complaining, and do something for myself, help myself"?.
I have attended a few meetings, not alot, call me a snob, could care less. I just can not sit around and listen to the same complaints, the same symptoms, the same depressing thoughts that I already feel. Great you have someone who knows you are not faking the pain, not acting tired. Fantastic you have someone who relates to you, we all need that. Continually going to these groups does it really help with the depression, does it help with the lack of will to do anything, or does it feed into it? From what I have seen, it feeds into it. Honestly, How can it not? If you go into a room of people who are depressed, it is bound to affect you.
I am no better than anyone else. I am just wondering, do Support Groups always help, or do they feed into our symptoms?
It seems that some support groups, not all, have taken the attitude that I am trying to adopt. What is this attitude? Stop the complaining, Get up and GO!
Groups do activities, bike rides, raise money and awareness for Fibromyalgia on an ongoing, daily basis.
I am aware that there are a few groups in Canada and even fewer in my surrounding area that does bring awareness to our wonderful symptom, disease, syndrome, whatever you would like to call it. However, I have contacted no fewer than 21 support groups in the immediate area, general area, and a distance of 100km surrounding the city I live in. I have contacted over 50 across Ontario, and 100 across Canada. Not one support group, has a group specifically designated for the individuals in our support system, and about a handful across Canada have an exercise based group. None of these in Ontario. I could have just contacted the wrong ones, I am sure I did not contact them all.
Every support group was welcoming and suggested that I do come to a meeting, to sit, discuss how I feel, and to gather more information. I appreciate every offer. However, I am tired of discussing how I feel, I am tired of researching what is happening to my body, unless you have new research that has a sliver of hope that leads to a cure. I am ready to take action.
I am really trying not to judge, and I am positive that these groups do help and give people the support they need. However, when do you finally say "Okay, enough, it is time to get off my ass, stop complaining, and do something for myself, help myself"?.
I have attended a few meetings, not alot, call me a snob, could care less. I just can not sit around and listen to the same complaints, the same symptoms, the same depressing thoughts that I already feel. Great you have someone who knows you are not faking the pain, not acting tired. Fantastic you have someone who relates to you, we all need that. Continually going to these groups does it really help with the depression, does it help with the lack of will to do anything, or does it feed into it? From what I have seen, it feeds into it. Honestly, How can it not? If you go into a room of people who are depressed, it is bound to affect you.
I am no better than anyone else. I am just wondering, do Support Groups always help, or do they feed into our symptoms?
Productive
Yesterday, I had the most amazing time with my children. I had a small family BBQ to celebrate how great they did in school this year.
When you are preparing for a BBQ, or small get together there are a hundred small things to do. I was happy to do them all, from food prep to water balloons to decorating to involving my children so they felt it was about them.
It was all worth it, everyone enjoyed themselves. Good simple food, 2 water fights (I found out I can still hop a fence and run fast when someone is chasing me), and great conversation.
This morning I woke up and it was difficult to get out of bed. I knew that it would catch up to me, but I still have things to do, and still want to accomplish certain tasks for the day, especially before the kids wake up.
I have uploaded pictures, I have emailed numerous people, assisted family members, and worked on research for things I want to start. I have accomplished more than I thought in two hours, and am very proud of myself.
Whether you accomplish one or two things, just do it. We can always use the excuse I hurt, or I am tired, or I need to rest. Fight the feeling, there are better days than others, use those days, and do something you want to accomplish.
When you are preparing for a BBQ, or small get together there are a hundred small things to do. I was happy to do them all, from food prep to water balloons to decorating to involving my children so they felt it was about them.
It was all worth it, everyone enjoyed themselves. Good simple food, 2 water fights (I found out I can still hop a fence and run fast when someone is chasing me), and great conversation.
This morning I woke up and it was difficult to get out of bed. I knew that it would catch up to me, but I still have things to do, and still want to accomplish certain tasks for the day, especially before the kids wake up.
I have uploaded pictures, I have emailed numerous people, assisted family members, and worked on research for things I want to start. I have accomplished more than I thought in two hours, and am very proud of myself.
Whether you accomplish one or two things, just do it. We can always use the excuse I hurt, or I am tired, or I need to rest. Fight the feeling, there are better days than others, use those days, and do something you want to accomplish.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Aerial Yoga
I am one who hates exercise. Exercise can be mundane and boring. You go to the gym, you are running on the treadmill, lifting weights, or listening to someones issues "my boyfriend is such a ...". I must admit though, I love the Stair Climber.
Exercise is great for Chronic Pain sufferers. I run, and I have just purchased a bike, however, I want to try things that are not necessarily conventional. So I figure, I am going to start to try different activities.
The first one I chose was Aerial Yoga. I did not want to the advanced class, as my health has been more in the poor zone, so I tried the Restorative Aerial Yoga.
I went to P3 Yoga in Pickering, and it was amazing. The teacher, Suzanne was fabulous.
I think the main reason I wanted to try this, was my Doctors told me NO. If you tell me NO I am going to do it.
Anyways, I dragged my mother with me. We arrived early, and I had one look at the class and said I am going to fall flat on my butt (thank god for the padding). My mother and I were playing around trying to get up, and I absolutely suck at it. But I have never laughed so hard at myself, or my mom than I did in those 5 mins. It was two elephants trying to cross on a tight wire, sorry mom, although she was better than me.
Finally, we started. It was not intense by any means. It was more for people like us, or people who are suffering from an ailment, or trying to recover. Once again, doctors aren't always right. You work within yourself, within your parameters, and with the tension of the material.
You are sitting in what I can best explain as a huge, Lycra like hammock, it is amazing. You are cocooned, and it is very relaxing. I was in incredible pain, it had been raining, I have been travelling an average of 20 hours a week, not sleeping, bad diet, and recovering from a minor attack. Within 10 mins of the class, the pain had significantly subsided from my hips.
I popped out my hip twice, and after a couple minutes of resting, was back in there. The instructor, Suzanne came over to me, while I was in the hammock and asked how I was doing, and right away she knew not to touch me. THANK YOU. After the class she even said she could read that I was saying "Don't Fn Touch Me" (sorry Suzanne), and she was not offended in the least.
I am not coordinated in the least, but if you didn't understand, you could yell out for help, or just say "WHAT?" like I did. Suzanne was the best, and just came and helped, and worked within my abilities. If you are not able to do the exercise, or just want to relax, to just lie down in the sling/hammock (sorry do not know the correct term) with your eyes closed, and the rocking motion will relax your body.
After the class was done, we spoke with Suzanne. Suzanne understood the limitations, and welcomed the suggestions I had, and as always I had suggestions
The key, I walked out of that class with a significant reduction of pain. I would and will return to this class.
I am going to try new and fun things, different ways to get exercise, make it fun again. I challenge all of you to do the same.
The next activity I am thinking Flying Trapeze. If you have any ideas, I am open to try them.
Waiting for suggestions.
Thank you to Suzanne at P3 Yoga at 905.409.8861
Exercise is great for Chronic Pain sufferers. I run, and I have just purchased a bike, however, I want to try things that are not necessarily conventional. So I figure, I am going to start to try different activities.
The first one I chose was Aerial Yoga. I did not want to the advanced class, as my health has been more in the poor zone, so I tried the Restorative Aerial Yoga.
I went to P3 Yoga in Pickering, and it was amazing. The teacher, Suzanne was fabulous.
I think the main reason I wanted to try this, was my Doctors told me NO. If you tell me NO I am going to do it.
Anyways, I dragged my mother with me. We arrived early, and I had one look at the class and said I am going to fall flat on my butt (thank god for the padding). My mother and I were playing around trying to get up, and I absolutely suck at it. But I have never laughed so hard at myself, or my mom than I did in those 5 mins. It was two elephants trying to cross on a tight wire, sorry mom, although she was better than me.
Finally, we started. It was not intense by any means. It was more for people like us, or people who are suffering from an ailment, or trying to recover. Once again, doctors aren't always right. You work within yourself, within your parameters, and with the tension of the material.
You are sitting in what I can best explain as a huge, Lycra like hammock, it is amazing. You are cocooned, and it is very relaxing. I was in incredible pain, it had been raining, I have been travelling an average of 20 hours a week, not sleeping, bad diet, and recovering from a minor attack. Within 10 mins of the class, the pain had significantly subsided from my hips.
I popped out my hip twice, and after a couple minutes of resting, was back in there. The instructor, Suzanne came over to me, while I was in the hammock and asked how I was doing, and right away she knew not to touch me. THANK YOU. After the class she even said she could read that I was saying "Don't Fn Touch Me" (sorry Suzanne), and she was not offended in the least.
I am not coordinated in the least, but if you didn't understand, you could yell out for help, or just say "WHAT?" like I did. Suzanne was the best, and just came and helped, and worked within my abilities. If you are not able to do the exercise, or just want to relax, to just lie down in the sling/hammock (sorry do not know the correct term) with your eyes closed, and the rocking motion will relax your body.
After the class was done, we spoke with Suzanne. Suzanne understood the limitations, and welcomed the suggestions I had, and as always I had suggestions
The key, I walked out of that class with a significant reduction of pain. I would and will return to this class.
I am going to try new and fun things, different ways to get exercise, make it fun again. I challenge all of you to do the same.
The next activity I am thinking Flying Trapeze. If you have any ideas, I am open to try them.
Waiting for suggestions.
Thank you to Suzanne at P3 Yoga at 905.409.8861
I AM BACK
It has been a long time, and I have missed it, but I AM BACK.
I have spent the last few months taking care of everyone else, but myself, and doing things for everyone else, but myself. Now I am focusing back on me.
Selfish I know, but to all who want to call me that BUGGER OFF.
Please never forget the importance of focusing on what makes you happy, healthy, and what will get you to your dreams.
I have spent the last few months taking care of everyone else, but myself, and doing things for everyone else, but myself. Now I am focusing back on me.
Selfish I know, but to all who want to call me that BUGGER OFF.
Please never forget the importance of focusing on what makes you happy, healthy, and what will get you to your dreams.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Simple Things
We should take a lesson from our kids....we spend so much money on toys, presents, and they find more joy in playing with the empty boxes.
Do you take time out to enjoy the simple things in life?
I find that with Fibro, the time I have where I am able to do tasks, activities, daily life, I take it and try to complete as much as possible in the short period of time. The time I am relaxing I am trying to not concentrate on the pain, and the relaxing is more out of necessity not want.
Maybe it is because I have been feeling better, or maybe it is because I just had an epiphany, but I realized that the simple things I forgot. I sat down in a comfy chair, with a book and a cup of tea and for 15mins I read. Something so simple, but relaxed me more than sitting on the couch watching tv. Now I carry a book around with me everywhere, whether it is waiting in a car, or for an appointment, I read my book and I get those few minutes of peace.
Do you take advantage of the simple things? Think of what you used to do, the little things and see if you can incorporate it into your life.
Do you take time out to enjoy the simple things in life?
I find that with Fibro, the time I have where I am able to do tasks, activities, daily life, I take it and try to complete as much as possible in the short period of time. The time I am relaxing I am trying to not concentrate on the pain, and the relaxing is more out of necessity not want.
Maybe it is because I have been feeling better, or maybe it is because I just had an epiphany, but I realized that the simple things I forgot. I sat down in a comfy chair, with a book and a cup of tea and for 15mins I read. Something so simple, but relaxed me more than sitting on the couch watching tv. Now I carry a book around with me everywhere, whether it is waiting in a car, or for an appointment, I read my book and I get those few minutes of peace.
Do you take advantage of the simple things? Think of what you used to do, the little things and see if you can incorporate it into your life.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Pain - What Would You Do?
For the last few weeks, I have driven, travelled and tested my body more than I should have, nor would recommend for a person who does not have Fibro, let alone have Fibro.
It was completely worth it, as I was privileged enough to spend a few last weeks, days and moments with a wonderful, compassionate, true lady.
I will admit, (I hope that my doctor is not reading this, I will never hear the end of it) that the exercise and diet I have been faithful to did help, and I do have to get back to it. Without it, or if it had been a year ago, 6 months ago I would have crashed.
After two weeks, of no sleep, travelling at least two hours a day, still having kids to take care of, and the mental stress, the pain was just building and building and getting more and more unbearable.
Then you start thinking. What would you do to keep going? What would you do to get rid of the pain? Especially when you need immediate relief.
I have tried so many painkillers and none have worked. But you are always willing to try them again and again in the hopes, in the faith that it will work. This is why I do not keep any on hand, when you are desperate enough your actions will mimic your desperation. I was tempted to call the pharmacy for the fentanol, the codeine, the morphine....I just need a little relief.
I have done this before, sitting at work, in front of the computer, praying my fingers would bend without sending the chill of pain through my body every time I moved them. Take the bottle of morphine out of my purse and pop a few, and nothing happened.
I stopped this when I realized it could lead to additional problems.
There are many options that are out there for pain management. Narcotics, nerve numbing, meditation, massage, acupuncture, reflexology, and so on.... But with Fibro it is hit and miss, and what happens when you have tried the majority and it is a miss, or when you need immediate relief.
I didn't always, and I am very proud of myself that I did not succumb to the drugs this time. However, will I in the future?
What have you done in desperation, in hopes to get rid of the pain?
It was completely worth it, as I was privileged enough to spend a few last weeks, days and moments with a wonderful, compassionate, true lady.
I will admit, (I hope that my doctor is not reading this, I will never hear the end of it) that the exercise and diet I have been faithful to did help, and I do have to get back to it. Without it, or if it had been a year ago, 6 months ago I would have crashed.
After two weeks, of no sleep, travelling at least two hours a day, still having kids to take care of, and the mental stress, the pain was just building and building and getting more and more unbearable.
Then you start thinking. What would you do to keep going? What would you do to get rid of the pain? Especially when you need immediate relief.
I have tried so many painkillers and none have worked. But you are always willing to try them again and again in the hopes, in the faith that it will work. This is why I do not keep any on hand, when you are desperate enough your actions will mimic your desperation. I was tempted to call the pharmacy for the fentanol, the codeine, the morphine....I just need a little relief.
I have done this before, sitting at work, in front of the computer, praying my fingers would bend without sending the chill of pain through my body every time I moved them. Take the bottle of morphine out of my purse and pop a few, and nothing happened.
I stopped this when I realized it could lead to additional problems.
There are many options that are out there for pain management. Narcotics, nerve numbing, meditation, massage, acupuncture, reflexology, and so on.... But with Fibro it is hit and miss, and what happens when you have tried the majority and it is a miss, or when you need immediate relief.
I didn't always, and I am very proud of myself that I did not succumb to the drugs this time. However, will I in the future?
What have you done in desperation, in hopes to get rid of the pain?
I Am Finally Back
Well it has been a trying few weeks, but I survived and I am back.
Thank you to all for your emails, and I will be back to doing the daily blogs, starting later today.
Thank you to all for your emails, and I will be back to doing the daily blogs, starting later today.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Truly Blessed
We are truly blessed.
For the last week and a half, I have been at my grandmothers almost everyday. My grandmother is one of two women who have been my only role models and inspirations in my life as I was growing up. She is strong, independent, caring, loving, witty, and of course stubborn. She was diagnosed with multiple types of cancer and very little time to live.
This woman has taken the news with grace, courage, and serenity. I sit beside her and think how lucky I am to be who I am, and have what I have.
She has only worried about others, and not herself. A lesson to be learned by all.
I have Fibro, Chronic Pain and many other things wrong with me. This woman has been diagnosed with Cancer, once again, with a terminal prognosis and is at peace with it. I have nothing to say but thank you, I only have Chronic Pain, and I get the wonderful privilege to see my children grow up, and years with my family and friends.
With everyday that you wake up, with every pain, with every challenge, please take it with courage, grace, and serenity.
Remember there is always someone who has it worse than you.
For the last week and a half, I have been at my grandmothers almost everyday. My grandmother is one of two women who have been my only role models and inspirations in my life as I was growing up. She is strong, independent, caring, loving, witty, and of course stubborn. She was diagnosed with multiple types of cancer and very little time to live.
This woman has taken the news with grace, courage, and serenity. I sit beside her and think how lucky I am to be who I am, and have what I have.
She has only worried about others, and not herself. A lesson to be learned by all.
I have Fibro, Chronic Pain and many other things wrong with me. This woman has been diagnosed with Cancer, once again, with a terminal prognosis and is at peace with it. I have nothing to say but thank you, I only have Chronic Pain, and I get the wonderful privilege to see my children grow up, and years with my family and friends.
With everyday that you wake up, with every pain, with every challenge, please take it with courage, grace, and serenity.
Remember there is always someone who has it worse than you.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Yes I Am Foolish
Well I am completely foolish, an idiot, lack of a brain. You name it, I deserve it.
I have been exercising, eating healthy, not pushing myself too much, and feeling fabulous. Well fabulous for a person with Fibro.
Last night I was sitting with the kids and a friend watching a movie, when my lovely friend decided to order Chinese food from a place that I absolutely love the Vegetarian Spring Rolls. Everything is homemade with this Spring Roll. I held my tongue when the initial order was placed, however when they called back to order two Egg Rolls for themselves, all of a sudden I said a Spring Roll please.
That Spring was delicious I ate the thing, which is bigger than my hand, it is a huge Spring Roll. I ate it within minutes. I was sitting back thinking once in awhile wont kill me. Then it happened.
THE PAIN. THE ACHES. THE SICK TO MY STOMACH FEELING. THE HEADACHE. THE BURNING.
It all happened in less than 10 minutes. Today I had more trouble waking up thank I have had in months. Limping, pain that is not tolerable.
I know I brought it on myself, and I know I have no one to blame but myself. Right now I am going to sound like a two year old. IT IS NOT FAIR, I WANT TO EAT IT.
Looking on the positive side. It does reinforce and give me a new re found confidence in what I have been practicing. Exercising, eating healthy, and do not push myself too much. Yes Doctors I owe you an "You Were Right". This regime does help with the pain, it may not omit it, but it does make it less than it is when I do not practice the "good for you habits".
I know I will make the same mistake again, and I know I will kick myself again. However, sometimes you just don't think, I didn't last night, and I am paying for it.
I will say the same thing I tell my kids,
IF YOU DO SOMETHING THAT YOU KNOW WILL BRING A CONSEQUENCE, MAKE SURE IT IS WORTH IT TO YOU. YOU HAVE NO ONE TO BLAME BUT YOURSELF.
Still deciding if it was worth it to me.
I have been exercising, eating healthy, not pushing myself too much, and feeling fabulous. Well fabulous for a person with Fibro.
Last night I was sitting with the kids and a friend watching a movie, when my lovely friend decided to order Chinese food from a place that I absolutely love the Vegetarian Spring Rolls. Everything is homemade with this Spring Roll. I held my tongue when the initial order was placed, however when they called back to order two Egg Rolls for themselves, all of a sudden I said a Spring Roll please.
That Spring was delicious I ate the thing, which is bigger than my hand, it is a huge Spring Roll. I ate it within minutes. I was sitting back thinking once in awhile wont kill me. Then it happened.
THE PAIN. THE ACHES. THE SICK TO MY STOMACH FEELING. THE HEADACHE. THE BURNING.
It all happened in less than 10 minutes. Today I had more trouble waking up thank I have had in months. Limping, pain that is not tolerable.
I know I brought it on myself, and I know I have no one to blame but myself. Right now I am going to sound like a two year old. IT IS NOT FAIR, I WANT TO EAT IT.
Looking on the positive side. It does reinforce and give me a new re found confidence in what I have been practicing. Exercising, eating healthy, and do not push myself too much. Yes Doctors I owe you an "You Were Right". This regime does help with the pain, it may not omit it, but it does make it less than it is when I do not practice the "good for you habits".
I know I will make the same mistake again, and I know I will kick myself again. However, sometimes you just don't think, I didn't last night, and I am paying for it.
I will say the same thing I tell my kids,
IF YOU DO SOMETHING THAT YOU KNOW WILL BRING A CONSEQUENCE, MAKE SURE IT IS WORTH IT TO YOU. YOU HAVE NO ONE TO BLAME BUT YOURSELF.
Still deciding if it was worth it to me.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
What Do You Do? Part 2
What Do You Do? Part 2
Yes it rhymes, sorry it wasn't meant to, even though it did make me smile. Yes little things amuse little minds.
Did you have any ideas? I have and have done some research on a few of my ideas, so let me share. These are just my ideas, if you don't like them, tell me. Don't think I expect you to follow my ideas as well. If you offer one person with Fibromyalgia a kind word, or volunteer at an organization for a hour, you have done something. Now enough of that, ideas.
1. Start two support groups. The first a support group for those with Fibromyalgia, but put a spin on it. The majority of support groups offer seminars, speakers, information and information is power. However I want to start an active support group. A group where an activity is planned, allowing the people with Fibro to have support from others like them, as well as getting the benefit of exercise.
The second support group will be for those around us. Our family, friends, children. Offering them a place to speak to eachother, rant, complain, and get it all out without having the guilt of saying it to us. Especially for the children whose parents or siblings have it, and the parents who have a child with Fibro
2. Either this year (although that is very, very optimistic) start a 5k run for those with Fibro. Proceeds going to research, actual research for the cause and even maybe the cure for Fibro. I figure I am training to run a 5k why not get some good out of it as well.
3. There are over 6 million people who suffer from Fibromyalgia, a least diagnosed with Fibro in Canada and the US alone, the number worldwide is unknown. What if every person with Fibro donated one dollar to a research group of their own choice. The amount of money collectively donated would do wonders for research. We all think our little amount will not do a thing, but if all of our little amounts are donated then it would do unthinkable things.
Those are my ideas....Let me know yours.
Yes it rhymes, sorry it wasn't meant to, even though it did make me smile. Yes little things amuse little minds.
Did you have any ideas? I have and have done some research on a few of my ideas, so let me share. These are just my ideas, if you don't like them, tell me. Don't think I expect you to follow my ideas as well. If you offer one person with Fibromyalgia a kind word, or volunteer at an organization for a hour, you have done something. Now enough of that, ideas.
1. Start two support groups. The first a support group for those with Fibromyalgia, but put a spin on it. The majority of support groups offer seminars, speakers, information and information is power. However I want to start an active support group. A group where an activity is planned, allowing the people with Fibro to have support from others like them, as well as getting the benefit of exercise.
The second support group will be for those around us. Our family, friends, children. Offering them a place to speak to eachother, rant, complain, and get it all out without having the guilt of saying it to us. Especially for the children whose parents or siblings have it, and the parents who have a child with Fibro
2. Either this year (although that is very, very optimistic) start a 5k run for those with Fibro. Proceeds going to research, actual research for the cause and even maybe the cure for Fibro. I figure I am training to run a 5k why not get some good out of it as well.
3. There are over 6 million people who suffer from Fibromyalgia, a least diagnosed with Fibro in Canada and the US alone, the number worldwide is unknown. What if every person with Fibro donated one dollar to a research group of their own choice. The amount of money collectively donated would do wonders for research. We all think our little amount will not do a thing, but if all of our little amounts are donated then it would do unthinkable things.
Those are my ideas....Let me know yours.
Bruising
I have received a few emails asking if I have ever heard of or experienced bruising that is related to Fibromyalgia.
Yes, I have.
From the research I have done, it is common among people with Fibromyalgia. There are different types. We are more sensitive and therefor we do experience bruising from touches that others may not.
However, I have experienced bruising where it looked like someone had hit me with a baseball bat a few times. It started with a rash all over my body. The rash was itchy, little red dots, and irritation all over my body. Doctors tried creams (didn't work), and said it was a new allergy that I needed to figure out, it wasn't. Go figure a doctor was wrong. The rash lasted about three weeks before I saw the bruising. It started with little finger mark bruises that would show up where I was scratching. After about a week I woke up with huge bruises all over my body. I must admit it was a little scary when I first saw them. I went to numerous doctors, and Mount Sinai hospital in Toronto, which wrote in my chart, I was a victim of domestic violence (which to say the least pissed me off). My family doctor came back from vacation, and when I saw him after tests, said I was one of the lucky ones who will experience severe bruising with Fibro. However, I am lucky it was not anything more serious.
Now, as I said before there are different types of bruising, and any type that makes you feel uncomfortable should be checked out by a doctor, and don't let the doctor dismiss you. Request a platelet test to make sure all is fine, doctors will try to discourage it but if you want it get the test. Remember for the thousands of dollars doctors pay for their years of education they are wrong. Also doctors who do believe in Fibromyalgia very few believe that it is degenerative or can cause other problems that can be more serious, and it does.
I have attached a few of the photos taken for my medical file on my photos page, to give you an idea of what is considered normal for Fibromyalgia. However everytime I do get this type of bruising I do get a platelet test done to be safe.
Believe in yourself, only you know your body.
Yes, I have.
From the research I have done, it is common among people with Fibromyalgia. There are different types. We are more sensitive and therefor we do experience bruising from touches that others may not.
However, I have experienced bruising where it looked like someone had hit me with a baseball bat a few times. It started with a rash all over my body. The rash was itchy, little red dots, and irritation all over my body. Doctors tried creams (didn't work), and said it was a new allergy that I needed to figure out, it wasn't. Go figure a doctor was wrong. The rash lasted about three weeks before I saw the bruising. It started with little finger mark bruises that would show up where I was scratching. After about a week I woke up with huge bruises all over my body. I must admit it was a little scary when I first saw them. I went to numerous doctors, and Mount Sinai hospital in Toronto, which wrote in my chart, I was a victim of domestic violence (which to say the least pissed me off). My family doctor came back from vacation, and when I saw him after tests, said I was one of the lucky ones who will experience severe bruising with Fibro. However, I am lucky it was not anything more serious.
Now, as I said before there are different types of bruising, and any type that makes you feel uncomfortable should be checked out by a doctor, and don't let the doctor dismiss you. Request a platelet test to make sure all is fine, doctors will try to discourage it but if you want it get the test. Remember for the thousands of dollars doctors pay for their years of education they are wrong. Also doctors who do believe in Fibromyalgia very few believe that it is degenerative or can cause other problems that can be more serious, and it does.
I have attached a few of the photos taken for my medical file on my photos page, to give you an idea of what is considered normal for Fibromyalgia. However everytime I do get this type of bruising I do get a platelet test done to be safe.
Believe in yourself, only you know your body.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
What Do You Do?
We have Fibromyalgia/Chronic Pain. We have all complained until we are blue in the face. We have sat on the couch watching horrible TV as we get wider, although at times very fun and necessary. We have yelled, questioned, and laughed at Doctors. We have done everything negative that is possible.
What do you do for the Fibro cause?
I did absolutely nothing. I sat and complained Doctors dont believe me, or have called it the housewives disease, and research is minimal because it isn't a big famous disease. Where does this get us, get me? Nowhere. It doesnt benefit me, you, others, the disease in a positive way.
What do you do? Then come the overwhelming feeling. What do I want to contribute? How do I start? How do I get the word out? What if it doesnt work? Do I have the energy for it?
Think how good you will feel, fighting the disease, the Fibro, the pain, instead of letting it just take over you. Yes we fight it everyday we are alive, but lets take it to the next level.
I am not just going to preach and not follow my own sermon. I am going to think tonight about what I would like to do, I already have ideas, and let you in tomorrow.
I challenge all of you to think of one thing that you can do, no matter how small you may think it is, it is important. A 100 people doing one small action will have a bigger impact than one person doing one big action.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
What do you do for the Fibro cause?
I did absolutely nothing. I sat and complained Doctors dont believe me, or have called it the housewives disease, and research is minimal because it isn't a big famous disease. Where does this get us, get me? Nowhere. It doesnt benefit me, you, others, the disease in a positive way.
What do you do? Then come the overwhelming feeling. What do I want to contribute? How do I start? How do I get the word out? What if it doesnt work? Do I have the energy for it?
Think how good you will feel, fighting the disease, the Fibro, the pain, instead of letting it just take over you. Yes we fight it everyday we are alive, but lets take it to the next level.
I am not just going to preach and not follow my own sermon. I am going to think tonight about what I would like to do, I already have ideas, and let you in tomorrow.
I challenge all of you to think of one thing that you can do, no matter how small you may think it is, it is important. A 100 people doing one small action will have a bigger impact than one person doing one big action.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
I Hate It, But It WORKS
First off, sorry everyone for not writing in the last few days, and thank you for all the emails I received much appreciated. All is fine...had some sick kids who were in need of mommy.
Well Doctors tell us to do it, and it is the only remedy or helpful remedy that is recommended for Fibromyalgia. Exercise. Everyone who has Fibro and has been told exercise, scoffs and thinks "You want me to exercise when I am in this much pain". I have been one of those people, but after gaining way too much weight and my son telling me "Mommy you are fat", it was time to do something for it. Although my reasoning for starting the exercise was not necessarily the correct one, the reason why I continue is. The exercise does help.
Now don't get me wrong, I hate going. I especially hated it when I had to take it so slow at first, because our bodies do not adapt like a person who does not have Fibro. However, after a week or so, I noticed that I had more energy. I had an extra hour in the day before I wanted to collapse. As time has gone on I have noticed other benefits, easier to get up in the morning, pain is still there but not as great, more manageable, able to do more things with the kids, overall better mood, and the best thing of all, I now love my ass, I am infatuated with it now. Yes I know I am vain.
Anyone who looks at me weird, laughs, or says I do not have Fibro because I am suggesting this, but exercise. It does help a great deal. When I started I was lucky to be able to do 10mins without coming home and collapsing, I am now up to 90mins, feeling great and training for a 5k.
The exercise will make your body look amazing, easier to move, and you will feel more confident.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
Well Doctors tell us to do it, and it is the only remedy or helpful remedy that is recommended for Fibromyalgia. Exercise. Everyone who has Fibro and has been told exercise, scoffs and thinks "You want me to exercise when I am in this much pain". I have been one of those people, but after gaining way too much weight and my son telling me "Mommy you are fat", it was time to do something for it. Although my reasoning for starting the exercise was not necessarily the correct one, the reason why I continue is. The exercise does help.
Now don't get me wrong, I hate going. I especially hated it when I had to take it so slow at first, because our bodies do not adapt like a person who does not have Fibro. However, after a week or so, I noticed that I had more energy. I had an extra hour in the day before I wanted to collapse. As time has gone on I have noticed other benefits, easier to get up in the morning, pain is still there but not as great, more manageable, able to do more things with the kids, overall better mood, and the best thing of all, I now love my ass, I am infatuated with it now. Yes I know I am vain.
Anyone who looks at me weird, laughs, or says I do not have Fibro because I am suggesting this, but exercise. It does help a great deal. When I started I was lucky to be able to do 10mins without coming home and collapsing, I am now up to 90mins, feeling great and training for a 5k.
The exercise will make your body look amazing, easier to move, and you will feel more confident.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Am I Turning Into An Idiot?
When you are diagnosed with anything, whether it is as simple as having a sty, or what I have Fibromyalgia, one of the first things you do is research what can start to happen. One of the things I came across is Fibro Fog. I didn't realize it meant that I was going to be a bumbling idiot on certain days.
Is it just me?
There are days that I forget everything, my phone, my wallet, keys, anything that I am suppossed to have with me. I have spoken to doctors and they suggest writing lists. I have tried it, and it works if you remember to bring the lists with you. My daughter actually wrote a list and taped it to the door of things that I forget on a regular basis. I went to an award ceremony for both of my children and I placed the camera by my phone so that I would not forget it, guess what I forgot both. That was the second time that day I had forgotten something.
Forgetting items at home, although annoying I can laugh off. What irks me is when I forget words, train of thought, or what I am doing. I have been in middle of conversations and forgotten simple words such as, spoon, teach, making the bed. When I am looking at whoever I am speaking to and have to pause because I have forgotten a word, I feel so foolish. Everyone gets distracted and forgets what they were suppossed to do or what the point of their story is, when it happens multiple times a day, then what do you do? I used to be able to carry on a conversation with wit and intelligence, now I am lucky if I can carry a conversation with remembering all the words.
What do you do?
I have chosen to laugh it off. However, I wish someone would have explained to me that I was going to be an absolute idiot at times.
Is it just me?
There are days that I forget everything, my phone, my wallet, keys, anything that I am suppossed to have with me. I have spoken to doctors and they suggest writing lists. I have tried it, and it works if you remember to bring the lists with you. My daughter actually wrote a list and taped it to the door of things that I forget on a regular basis. I went to an award ceremony for both of my children and I placed the camera by my phone so that I would not forget it, guess what I forgot both. That was the second time that day I had forgotten something.
Forgetting items at home, although annoying I can laugh off. What irks me is when I forget words, train of thought, or what I am doing. I have been in middle of conversations and forgotten simple words such as, spoon, teach, making the bed. When I am looking at whoever I am speaking to and have to pause because I have forgotten a word, I feel so foolish. Everyone gets distracted and forgets what they were suppossed to do or what the point of their story is, when it happens multiple times a day, then what do you do? I used to be able to carry on a conversation with wit and intelligence, now I am lucky if I can carry a conversation with remembering all the words.
What do you do?
I have chosen to laugh it off. However, I wish someone would have explained to me that I was going to be an absolute idiot at times.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The Topic No One Wants To Speak About
There is a topic that everyone thinks about, yes even the most conservative, and is affected directly by Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain, yet most doctors skip over it completly, as quickly as possible, or ignore it. It is also mentioned very little on the web, support groups or by individuals, considering how much information is really out there.
SEX
So mom, dad, step mom, bro, and any other family members please stop reading now, I don't think you necessarily want to hear about me talking about sex.
You have pain, you are tired, not feeling so great about yourself, a little depressed. Why should you think about sex, or care about sex? At least this is what one doctor said to me when I asked about what I can do to get my drive back to what it used to be. Just because the pain and all the fun stuff we deal with is there, doesnt mean we do not ever want to have sex again.
I have had many suggestions from doctors, and have read some suggestions online, including
"Sex can still be spontaneous at times. During those occasions you find yourself feeling better, seize the opportunity for physical, sexual gratification. "
If only your partners and your sexual desires would be on schedule with when the Fibro tells you it is okay.
Now I understand, that saving your energy, planning (especially for men suffering from Fibro who use the littly blue pill), and the hot bath, may sound good (or you can have your partner join you in the shower). However, we are all human and sometimes our wants do not match what is good for us. Also sometimes we want a sense of normalcy and this just isnt it.
My question is what about us single mom, and single fathers, who don't have the option to relax and follow all that is suggested?
There are things we can do. For example, with Fibro we aren't as active as we used to be, and the meds make us a little chubbier, a combination of both can make us gain 10, 20 or more pounds. This makes us feel absolutely horrible about our self image, and not very sexy. We can start to take care of ourselves, a little bit of exercise, do our makeup, something special with our hair. The better we feel about ourself, the sexier we feel, (also the more positive you feel will have other benefits for you).
Positions, pick up the Kama Sutra, there has to be one position in there that will work for you.
Although you may not want to, there are great benefits to having sex for people who suffer from pain.
"It turns out that sex, even without orgasm, triggers endorphins that ease pain and relax the body so that sleep becomes easier."
Imagine that, it can ease pain.
Whether you are 20, 40, 60, 80, male or female, the sexual desire is always there, and if you say it isn't, I don't believe you. We have Fibro, it does not mean we are dead and lose the wants and needs we had before being diagnosed. Try being spontaneous, try buying a new outfit, tell your spouses/partners what you want.
The long term effects will be beneficial, at least they have been for me.
Remember, as well, the intimacy you have with your spouse (should you have one), will bring a bit of the connection back that may have been lost, it has for a few people I have talked to.
SEX
So mom, dad, step mom, bro, and any other family members please stop reading now, I don't think you necessarily want to hear about me talking about sex.
You have pain, you are tired, not feeling so great about yourself, a little depressed. Why should you think about sex, or care about sex? At least this is what one doctor said to me when I asked about what I can do to get my drive back to what it used to be. Just because the pain and all the fun stuff we deal with is there, doesnt mean we do not ever want to have sex again.
I have had many suggestions from doctors, and have read some suggestions online, including
- Plan sex for the time of day you generally feel best
- Take medications to allow the peak of the dose to occur during sex
- Avoid extra activity which might increase your level of fatigue
- Do gentle exercises to relax and to improve your range of motion
- Take a warm bath or shower to soothe joints and muscles
- Try new positions which might alleviate pain during sex
"Sex can still be spontaneous at times. During those occasions you find yourself feeling better, seize the opportunity for physical, sexual gratification. "
If only your partners and your sexual desires would be on schedule with when the Fibro tells you it is okay.
Now I understand, that saving your energy, planning (especially for men suffering from Fibro who use the littly blue pill), and the hot bath, may sound good (or you can have your partner join you in the shower). However, we are all human and sometimes our wants do not match what is good for us. Also sometimes we want a sense of normalcy and this just isnt it.
My question is what about us single mom, and single fathers, who don't have the option to relax and follow all that is suggested?
There are things we can do. For example, with Fibro we aren't as active as we used to be, and the meds make us a little chubbier, a combination of both can make us gain 10, 20 or more pounds. This makes us feel absolutely horrible about our self image, and not very sexy. We can start to take care of ourselves, a little bit of exercise, do our makeup, something special with our hair. The better we feel about ourself, the sexier we feel, (also the more positive you feel will have other benefits for you).
Positions, pick up the Kama Sutra, there has to be one position in there that will work for you.
Although you may not want to, there are great benefits to having sex for people who suffer from pain.
"It turns out that sex, even without orgasm, triggers endorphins that ease pain and relax the body so that sleep becomes easier."
Imagine that, it can ease pain.
Whether you are 20, 40, 60, 80, male or female, the sexual desire is always there, and if you say it isn't, I don't believe you. We have Fibro, it does not mean we are dead and lose the wants and needs we had before being diagnosed. Try being spontaneous, try buying a new outfit, tell your spouses/partners what you want.
The long term effects will be beneficial, at least they have been for me.
Remember, as well, the intimacy you have with your spouse (should you have one), will bring a bit of the connection back that may have been lost, it has for a few people I have talked to.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Imitation
I am going to apologize in advance everyone, this is going to be a bit of a rant. I am truly trying to be more positive this year, not always working, I'm not perfect. Today I had someone say a phrase to me, that made me want to say "are you bleeping serious", but instead excused myself and left very quickly.
What did they say?
"Oh I am tired sometimes too, I think I have Fibromyalgia"
I am sure it is not just me who has dealt with this. Family members, close friends, and even strangers (upon hearing what I have), say "oh I am tired" or "oh I have one of the symptoms" and follow it up with "Maybe I have Fibromyalgia too".
When this is said to me, so many things go through my mind.
"Do you really want something as debilitating and painful as Fibromyalgia"
"Do you even know what Fibro is"
"Are you that desperate for attention that you have to imitate what I have"
"Your tired welcome to life sweety"
Not all that nice I understand, but really, these people think that what we go through is a walk in the park, that they can just say "hey I think I have that too".
The strangers do not bother me as much as family members and friends saying something, sorry everyone, idiotic. Is it not bad enough that we have doctors who do not believe us, or the fight we go through everyday (I am not looking for sympathy), but now we have to listen to you complain about being tired, or having a headache and then saying "oh maybe I have it to", no thank you, I do not want to.
In fact, I have a family member, sorry to this person for mentioning this, who called me and said "you know I am feeling tired, and a little achy, isn't Fibromyalgia hereditary maybe you got it from me", this was coming from the healthiest member of my family, who does not experience one symptom that you and I may experience. My response was simply this "you know when I go to the doctors for a checkup, on the back of his door he has a pink sign that says "Symptom - Tired, Welcome to Life."
To the family members, the friends, the support people, and the strangers Fibromyalgia is not explainable in words, if you feel tired, achy or have a headache it does not mean you have Fibro. If you feel like you have been hit by ten or twelve mack trucks over and over again and that is a good day, then we can talk. I know I am very fortunate and their are worse people then me. So please do not try to sympathize with us , or relate to us with your ailments.
I think I have made myself look like an uncaring, selfish you know what, which means my rant is done.
If you are healthy be thankful, if you have Fibro be thankful we are still truly privileged.
Update:
I was at my doctors last week and took a picture of one of the new signs on his door. For all those people who do not have Fibro, but would like to think they do because they have normal aches, pains and tired. Please read this sign.
What did they say?
"Oh I am tired sometimes too, I think I have Fibromyalgia"
I am sure it is not just me who has dealt with this. Family members, close friends, and even strangers (upon hearing what I have), say "oh I am tired" or "oh I have one of the symptoms" and follow it up with "Maybe I have Fibromyalgia too".
When this is said to me, so many things go through my mind.
"Do you really want something as debilitating and painful as Fibromyalgia"
"Do you even know what Fibro is"
"Are you that desperate for attention that you have to imitate what I have"
"Your tired welcome to life sweety"
Not all that nice I understand, but really, these people think that what we go through is a walk in the park, that they can just say "hey I think I have that too".
The strangers do not bother me as much as family members and friends saying something, sorry everyone, idiotic. Is it not bad enough that we have doctors who do not believe us, or the fight we go through everyday (I am not looking for sympathy), but now we have to listen to you complain about being tired, or having a headache and then saying "oh maybe I have it to", no thank you, I do not want to.
In fact, I have a family member, sorry to this person for mentioning this, who called me and said "you know I am feeling tired, and a little achy, isn't Fibromyalgia hereditary maybe you got it from me", this was coming from the healthiest member of my family, who does not experience one symptom that you and I may experience. My response was simply this "you know when I go to the doctors for a checkup, on the back of his door he has a pink sign that says "Symptom - Tired, Welcome to Life."
To the family members, the friends, the support people, and the strangers Fibromyalgia is not explainable in words, if you feel tired, achy or have a headache it does not mean you have Fibro. If you feel like you have been hit by ten or twelve mack trucks over and over again and that is a good day, then we can talk. I know I am very fortunate and their are worse people then me. So please do not try to sympathize with us , or relate to us with your ailments.
I think I have made myself look like an uncaring, selfish you know what, which means my rant is done.
If you are healthy be thankful, if you have Fibro be thankful we are still truly privileged.
Update:
I was at my doctors last week and took a picture of one of the new signs on his door. For all those people who do not have Fibro, but would like to think they do because they have normal aches, pains and tired. Please read this sign.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Don't Touch Me
Who hasn't been there, you are in so much pain and a family member comes and hugs you, or you are at work and have to shake hands. All you want to do is yell DON'T TOUCH ME.
I grew up in a very affectionate family. Moms always hugging and kissing us. I was daddys little girl, sitting on his lap, arms linked, hugs, everyone knew I was a daddys' girl. With my children I never stop hugging them, or kissing them, holding hands, they are still at the age where they don't get embarrassed, not that their embarrassment will stop me.
So what's the problem? I can not stand people touching me. I actually want to push them away and say never touch me again. When I touch someone, I have the control on how hard or how soft the touch is, I have control on when and where we touch, and what my body can handle. When someone touches me, I have to refrain myself from pushing them off.
Why does this occur, I have received the typical answer "this is part of Fibro". My Pain Specialist who is also my Psychiatrist has told me
"it is a natural way for pain control, a way where only I have the control, and the one way that I know will work for sure".
Is there anything that I can do about it, nope.
The weird thing is that I have this feeling more so when I am having good days, as if the persons touch is going to bring on the attack. It doesn't make sense, but it is one of the realities I have had to take on when Fibro decided to come into my life.
The real question is how do you tell people, don't touch me, especially your children. With my children I have learned to bite my tongue. I have been rude to others though. I am one of those butterfly hug people now. You know the person who stands so far away from you that you can fit another person in between and quickly pats the back and breaks the embrace quick. I have learned to always stand further away, just that extra step back so people wont bother to give you a hug hello or goodbye, or always hold something so that I do not have to shake hands. I have become rude, without realizing it, that is till recently.
But do I want to change?
I grew up in a very affectionate family. Moms always hugging and kissing us. I was daddys little girl, sitting on his lap, arms linked, hugs, everyone knew I was a daddys' girl. With my children I never stop hugging them, or kissing them, holding hands, they are still at the age where they don't get embarrassed, not that their embarrassment will stop me.
So what's the problem? I can not stand people touching me. I actually want to push them away and say never touch me again. When I touch someone, I have the control on how hard or how soft the touch is, I have control on when and where we touch, and what my body can handle. When someone touches me, I have to refrain myself from pushing them off.
Why does this occur, I have received the typical answer "this is part of Fibro". My Pain Specialist who is also my Psychiatrist has told me
"it is a natural way for pain control, a way where only I have the control, and the one way that I know will work for sure".
Is there anything that I can do about it, nope.
The weird thing is that I have this feeling more so when I am having good days, as if the persons touch is going to bring on the attack. It doesn't make sense, but it is one of the realities I have had to take on when Fibro decided to come into my life.
The real question is how do you tell people, don't touch me, especially your children. With my children I have learned to bite my tongue. I have been rude to others though. I am one of those butterfly hug people now. You know the person who stands so far away from you that you can fit another person in between and quickly pats the back and breaks the embrace quick. I have learned to always stand further away, just that extra step back so people wont bother to give you a hug hello or goodbye, or always hold something so that I do not have to shake hands. I have become rude, without realizing it, that is till recently.
But do I want to change?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Pushing Your Limits
A doctor I see compared having Fibro to a gas tank.
"A regular person has a gas tank the size of one you would find on a Hummer, and a person with Fibro has a gas tank the size of one you would find on a smart car."
We just do not have the energy to do what a regular person would. However, as my doctor says
"We can make our gas tank grow"
How?
It is very difficult. One of the things with Fibro and Chronic Pain is that we tend to stop pushing our self, we stop exercising the way we should, we stop doing what we would normally do, cause it is just too much for us.
But do we really push ourselves? Or do we just say "I can't, I have Fibro"?
If we stop exercising, we start to gain weight and lose the mobility in our body. The pain becomes worse because we are unable to move or stretch as we used to, and the littlest movement is painful. If we stop doing what we love, we become depressed which also causes a lot of pain for us as well. It is an evil cycle.
So why let it control us? Why not fight back?
I understand the fear, if we push ourselves then another attack will come. But if we don't push ourselves, the attack is going to come from the inactivity and the depression.
What do you do in a normal day, a week a month? Figure out how you can add one thing a month that you used to do, and do it. The sense of accomplishment, the joy you get from doing it will do wonders. You'll be tired the next day so set up the next day as a pamper day, movies, books, whatever you like. But you will have a day that you loved and enjoyed. And slowly increase on the third month try two things a month, on the fifth month do it three things a month and so one until you are doing it once a week. You will not believe the difference it will do for you.
Exercise. If you exercise try an extra five minutes and slowly increase it. If you do not exercise than try something as simple as walking around the block. Do one block for a week or two and then slowly increase it to two blocks. Not only will you feel better about yourself, but you are conditioning your body, and you will have more energy, you are increasing how much energy you do have.
The main benefit I have found with doing this, besides more energy, feeling better about myself, not as depressed (and hopefully it will go away completely), is that when I have a Fibro attack, I seem to bounce back faster, and I want to go back to exercising and making myself happy, I do not let it keep me down.
You can help yourself by the simplest thing. Push yourself, the greatest rewards, and happiness are from what you work the hardest to achieve.
"A regular person has a gas tank the size of one you would find on a Hummer, and a person with Fibro has a gas tank the size of one you would find on a smart car."
We just do not have the energy to do what a regular person would. However, as my doctor says
"We can make our gas tank grow"
How?
It is very difficult. One of the things with Fibro and Chronic Pain is that we tend to stop pushing our self, we stop exercising the way we should, we stop doing what we would normally do, cause it is just too much for us.
But do we really push ourselves? Or do we just say "I can't, I have Fibro"?
If we stop exercising, we start to gain weight and lose the mobility in our body. The pain becomes worse because we are unable to move or stretch as we used to, and the littlest movement is painful. If we stop doing what we love, we become depressed which also causes a lot of pain for us as well. It is an evil cycle.
So why let it control us? Why not fight back?
I understand the fear, if we push ourselves then another attack will come. But if we don't push ourselves, the attack is going to come from the inactivity and the depression.
What do you do in a normal day, a week a month? Figure out how you can add one thing a month that you used to do, and do it. The sense of accomplishment, the joy you get from doing it will do wonders. You'll be tired the next day so set up the next day as a pamper day, movies, books, whatever you like. But you will have a day that you loved and enjoyed. And slowly increase on the third month try two things a month, on the fifth month do it three things a month and so one until you are doing it once a week. You will not believe the difference it will do for you.
Exercise. If you exercise try an extra five minutes and slowly increase it. If you do not exercise than try something as simple as walking around the block. Do one block for a week or two and then slowly increase it to two blocks. Not only will you feel better about yourself, but you are conditioning your body, and you will have more energy, you are increasing how much energy you do have.
The main benefit I have found with doing this, besides more energy, feeling better about myself, not as depressed (and hopefully it will go away completely), is that when I have a Fibro attack, I seem to bounce back faster, and I want to go back to exercising and making myself happy, I do not let it keep me down.
You can help yourself by the simplest thing. Push yourself, the greatest rewards, and happiness are from what you work the hardest to achieve.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Negativity
We have all been there, nothing but negative thoughts. Pain everyday, half the doctors think that we are imagining the pain and are drug seekers, the half that do believe us maybe 1% actually know how to help us, and even that is limited. Never have enough energy to do what we want, constantly disappointing our children, family members, friends and ourselves with not being ourselves and having to say no. How can we not think negative?
Does the negativity make us feel better or worse? Have you ever thought about it?
Like you, I have gone on many Fibro/Chronic Pain sites, support groups, message boards and all I find is that the majority of the people are complaining, and the people who are offering tips are getting nasty remarks or being told they do not have Fibro. So why the negativity?
Is it hard? Of course.
Is it worth it to be negative? NEVER
We have enough negativity with the doctors alone, we do not need anymore, especially from ourselves.
It is hard to find the positivity in our symptom, condition, disease. Find it though. Yes, it is easier said than done. Your in pain, another doctor says something you don't like, new meds aren't working, find the positive. I am thankful for my daily pain and not for a full blown attack everyday, doctor said something idiotic, good closer to the right doctor, meds aren't working, we are still fighting for the right one. The negative will do nothing but bring you to a place that is just laying on the couch, watching Maury Pauvich and who is my babys daddy, and how is that going to help you at all. The one thing I found that worked for me also is the complaining had to go away. Who likes to hear a kid complain or whine? No one, so why is it that people want to hear it from us? They don't. If that is all that you talk about, that is all people talk about with you. Fibro is not who you are or who I am, it is a part of me. So now when people ask me how I'm doing, I say fine. If they want more detail I say its a better day, or if its not, I say its a bad day. That is it.
What makes you smile? What makes you laugh? Use those things. Have a song that always brings you to a better place, play it. I have a few including guilty pleasures like New Kids on The Block (sorry dad), and Sir Mix Alot (yes we all know the song), and then a new one Pretty Girl Rock. Everyone has a song that does it for them. Find the things the bring you out of the negativity.
If you want to be negative, fine do it. But why bring your negativity to other people? I have seen on support boards, facebook pages, in groups people offering suggestions, things that have worked for them and they are shut down, accused of not having Fibro. Who are these people to even suggest or bring that attitude to someone who is trying to offer someone something that is positive. What works for you doesn't work for me, necessarily. So if it doesn't work for you, why put that person down, or put out negative comments. With Fibro and Chronic Pain we need support, positive support and if you cannot supply that then please do not comment at all.
We cannot rely on doctors to help us, we have to figure out what we can do for ourselves to make us able to live, not survive, live. Negativity will not allow you to live, it will not allow you to move forward, so omit it from your life.
Does the negativity make us feel better or worse? Have you ever thought about it?
Like you, I have gone on many Fibro/Chronic Pain sites, support groups, message boards and all I find is that the majority of the people are complaining, and the people who are offering tips are getting nasty remarks or being told they do not have Fibro. So why the negativity?
Is it hard? Of course.
Is it worth it to be negative? NEVER
We have enough negativity with the doctors alone, we do not need anymore, especially from ourselves.
It is hard to find the positivity in our symptom, condition, disease. Find it though. Yes, it is easier said than done. Your in pain, another doctor says something you don't like, new meds aren't working, find the positive. I am thankful for my daily pain and not for a full blown attack everyday, doctor said something idiotic, good closer to the right doctor, meds aren't working, we are still fighting for the right one. The negative will do nothing but bring you to a place that is just laying on the couch, watching Maury Pauvich and who is my babys daddy, and how is that going to help you at all. The one thing I found that worked for me also is the complaining had to go away. Who likes to hear a kid complain or whine? No one, so why is it that people want to hear it from us? They don't. If that is all that you talk about, that is all people talk about with you. Fibro is not who you are or who I am, it is a part of me. So now when people ask me how I'm doing, I say fine. If they want more detail I say its a better day, or if its not, I say its a bad day. That is it.
What makes you smile? What makes you laugh? Use those things. Have a song that always brings you to a better place, play it. I have a few including guilty pleasures like New Kids on The Block (sorry dad), and Sir Mix Alot (yes we all know the song), and then a new one Pretty Girl Rock. Everyone has a song that does it for them. Find the things the bring you out of the negativity.
If you want to be negative, fine do it. But why bring your negativity to other people? I have seen on support boards, facebook pages, in groups people offering suggestions, things that have worked for them and they are shut down, accused of not having Fibro. Who are these people to even suggest or bring that attitude to someone who is trying to offer someone something that is positive. What works for you doesn't work for me, necessarily. So if it doesn't work for you, why put that person down, or put out negative comments. With Fibro and Chronic Pain we need support, positive support and if you cannot supply that then please do not comment at all.
We cannot rely on doctors to help us, we have to figure out what we can do for ourselves to make us able to live, not survive, live. Negativity will not allow you to live, it will not allow you to move forward, so omit it from your life.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Support For Others
When you have Fibro or Chronic Pain we always look for support, help and understanding for ourselves. It is rightly deserved. However we are not the only ones going through our daily struggles.
What about the people who are around you on a daily basis? The spouses, the moms, the dads, the siblings, and most importantly (at least to me) the children. Although they do not deal with the pain, exhaustion, and everything else we do, they have their own struggles. No matter how much you try, you and I will never understand what they feel.
I have heard "so what, if they love us they should deal with it", or "why should I have compassion for them, when they don't feel what I go through?". What do they go through?
Think of it this way, the person you love the most, there is something wrong with them, take something simple a broken bone. You have sympathy, you want to help where you can, and do more for them, putting more on yourself. That is just for a broken bone. Now lets say there is something wrong with your loved one that doctors just cannot figure out. The frustration you would feel, the anger, the sense of helplessness. Now switch it around.
They have daily pain, and something that is attacking their body on a daily basis. There is no cure, very little medical help and at any day they can have a huge attack where the pain is so great that giving birth feels like a walk in the park. They have mood swings, never want to do anything, don't always want you touching them, and are dismissive when you try to help. How would you feel?
You are helpless, there is nothing you can do to ease the pain. You are frustrated, angry at the situation and start to resent them. All of those feelings keep building and building as the days go by.
The people around us, who also deal with Fibro/Chronic Pain do not get enough applause, or thanks for what they go through.
A father or mother who sees their child going through pain is heart wrenching. A spouse who is supposed to help, protect (especially for the men), and stand by their side is hard and takes great courage and strength. Or there are the siblings and friends, who are always there, even when you withdraw, no longer want to go out, or answer your phone, who are just trying to help. How do they do it? How long can they do it for?
What about the children. They are supposed to feel protected and seeing their parent constantly go to doctor after doctor, and in some cases hospital after hospital, it is scary. When mommy and daddy are unable to play, or do what they would like. What about the times that the child just wants a hug and you cant say no, when they do hug you, you tense up because of the pain. They notice this. How strong are these little guys? They are, to me, our little heroes.
The spouses, parents, siblings, and especially the children, DO NOT FORGET WHAT THEY GO THROUGH. Every chance you get, every minute you can say thank you, tell them you appreciate them and what they do for you.
Remember we are not the only ones who are affected, the people around us are affected differently, but strongly.
What about the people who are around you on a daily basis? The spouses, the moms, the dads, the siblings, and most importantly (at least to me) the children. Although they do not deal with the pain, exhaustion, and everything else we do, they have their own struggles. No matter how much you try, you and I will never understand what they feel.
I have heard "so what, if they love us they should deal with it", or "why should I have compassion for them, when they don't feel what I go through?". What do they go through?
Think of it this way, the person you love the most, there is something wrong with them, take something simple a broken bone. You have sympathy, you want to help where you can, and do more for them, putting more on yourself. That is just for a broken bone. Now lets say there is something wrong with your loved one that doctors just cannot figure out. The frustration you would feel, the anger, the sense of helplessness. Now switch it around.
They have daily pain, and something that is attacking their body on a daily basis. There is no cure, very little medical help and at any day they can have a huge attack where the pain is so great that giving birth feels like a walk in the park. They have mood swings, never want to do anything, don't always want you touching them, and are dismissive when you try to help. How would you feel?
You are helpless, there is nothing you can do to ease the pain. You are frustrated, angry at the situation and start to resent them. All of those feelings keep building and building as the days go by.
The people around us, who also deal with Fibro/Chronic Pain do not get enough applause, or thanks for what they go through.
A father or mother who sees their child going through pain is heart wrenching. A spouse who is supposed to help, protect (especially for the men), and stand by their side is hard and takes great courage and strength. Or there are the siblings and friends, who are always there, even when you withdraw, no longer want to go out, or answer your phone, who are just trying to help. How do they do it? How long can they do it for?
What about the children. They are supposed to feel protected and seeing their parent constantly go to doctor after doctor, and in some cases hospital after hospital, it is scary. When mommy and daddy are unable to play, or do what they would like. What about the times that the child just wants a hug and you cant say no, when they do hug you, you tense up because of the pain. They notice this. How strong are these little guys? They are, to me, our little heroes.
The spouses, parents, siblings, and especially the children, DO NOT FORGET WHAT THEY GO THROUGH. Every chance you get, every minute you can say thank you, tell them you appreciate them and what they do for you.
Remember we are not the only ones who are affected, the people around us are affected differently, but strongly.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Strength
I saw a saying on one of the Chronic Pain networks available on Facebook, that made me think, so true. What was the saying?
"It's Not The Size Of The Fibro Monster,
But The Size Of The Fight In You!"
I have heard many sayings, that truthfully just PISS ME OFF. These are just some of them;
It Can't Hurt That Much
Suck It Up
Work Thru It
We Are All Tired
You Just Don't Want To Go To Work/Clean
Its Not A Real Condition
You Are Just Looking For Drugs
My Favourite, BUT YOU LOOK FINE
Those are just some of the phrases I have dealt with, and many from family and friends. There were many points in the last 6 years that I said "I'm done, I give up". Each time this happened one of my children would come and say something, make me laugh or just give me a kiss, and I would say I just can not give up, they are worth everything.
I didn't give up when the Fibro Specialist said to me that he could no longer see me because I was not good for his statistics with the government, I did not give up when I went to see some quack (my father referred me to) who told me to no longer dry or style my hair and shower with a lawn chair in the shower, I did not give up when I went to the hospital to just get help for sleep (per my doctor) after days without sleep and the doctor was ready to take out my gall bladder (I don't know why), and I did not give up when my spouse left me and to this day when we talk (we are still on very good terms) says to suck it up, or when my family says oh but you look good. I could go on, as I am sure you can.
It takes incredible strength, patience and perseverance for someone with Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain to survive. The doctors, individuals, and medical institutions alone take more than one person thought possible to navigate and to find someone who will help. Let alone to deal with the individuals, insurance companies, family and friends who do not understand, do not have compassion or say one of the phrases that just wants you to yell at them. It takes incredible strength that one never thought they had.
You may have thought you were strong, but until you go through a full blown attack, you do not understand the strength one has. Until you have dealt with a doctor who looks at you and says "oh its nothing", and it happens more than one can count, you do not understand the strength one has. Until you deal with your friends and family who do not understand and instead of helping, hurt you do not know the strength we have.
We deal with it because we do not have a choice. We deal with it because it will make us stronger. We are able to deal with it because WE ARE STRONG.
Do not ever dismiss or let someone else dismiss what you go through and what you deal with.
YOU ARE STRONG.
"It's Not The Size Of The Fibro Monster,
But The Size Of The Fight In You!"
I have heard many sayings, that truthfully just PISS ME OFF. These are just some of them;
It Can't Hurt That Much
Suck It Up
Work Thru It
We Are All Tired
You Just Don't Want To Go To Work/Clean
Its Not A Real Condition
You Are Just Looking For Drugs
My Favourite, BUT YOU LOOK FINE
Those are just some of the phrases I have dealt with, and many from family and friends. There were many points in the last 6 years that I said "I'm done, I give up". Each time this happened one of my children would come and say something, make me laugh or just give me a kiss, and I would say I just can not give up, they are worth everything.
I didn't give up when the Fibro Specialist said to me that he could no longer see me because I was not good for his statistics with the government, I did not give up when I went to see some quack (my father referred me to) who told me to no longer dry or style my hair and shower with a lawn chair in the shower, I did not give up when I went to the hospital to just get help for sleep (per my doctor) after days without sleep and the doctor was ready to take out my gall bladder (I don't know why), and I did not give up when my spouse left me and to this day when we talk (we are still on very good terms) says to suck it up, or when my family says oh but you look good. I could go on, as I am sure you can.
It takes incredible strength, patience and perseverance for someone with Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain to survive. The doctors, individuals, and medical institutions alone take more than one person thought possible to navigate and to find someone who will help. Let alone to deal with the individuals, insurance companies, family and friends who do not understand, do not have compassion or say one of the phrases that just wants you to yell at them. It takes incredible strength that one never thought they had.
You may have thought you were strong, but until you go through a full blown attack, you do not understand the strength one has. Until you have dealt with a doctor who looks at you and says "oh its nothing", and it happens more than one can count, you do not understand the strength one has. Until you deal with your friends and family who do not understand and instead of helping, hurt you do not know the strength we have.
We deal with it because we do not have a choice. We deal with it because it will make us stronger. We are able to deal with it because WE ARE STRONG.
Do not ever dismiss or let someone else dismiss what you go through and what you deal with.
YOU ARE STRONG.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Trust Yourself
Fibromyalgia affects all parts of your body and can make your body do things it wouldn't normally do. One of the things that has affected me is Candida. I have been hospitalized twice and two surgeries from it. One time I had to go to three separate hospitals before a doctor would not dismiss me and just say it was Fibro.
After the surgery, I finally said the doctors haven't been able to help and I am going to take things into my own hands. I found the most common item that kept coming up in my research was Yogurt, more specific Yogurt with Probiotics.
Yogurt, I hate the taste and thought I would never be purchasing it on a weekly basis. I know it is healthy and provides calcium which every woman needs, but that's not why I buy it. Eating yogurt actually worked better than one of the medications the doctors prescribed.
Candida Albicans is a yeast that occurs naturally in the human body. Normally it lives in harmony with a variety of other microorganisms and actually performs a couple important functions. The problem occurs when something upsets the balance of bacteria in the body and this allows the yeast organism to proliferate and take over all the healthy microorganisms.
There are many symptoms that come with this and it DOES NOT just affect women, men have symptoms as well. Some of the symptoms are;
A few of the symptoms are similar to Fibromyalgia and can worsen your Fibro symptoms.
Is Yogurt the cure? No, not at all. I still have some problems, but the Yogurt has had more benefits than any other medication that the doctors have put me on. A natural substance over a chemical substance. When they spoke to the doctors they were all very dismissive "Oh yes, that helps as well".
There is a Candida diet, very similar to the Fibromyalgia diet. Basically no sugars, no processed food, and as natural and organic as possible, I know no fun.
What is my point? I have two.
The first, trust yourself. I have two friends who were diagnosed with Fibro, mainly because the doctors just did not want to deal with them anymore and didn't believe it was Fibro. After speaking with me, they went into the doctors and found out that they had Candida. Please do not take what the doctors say as the word of god. Doctors are wrong, doctors are not always helpful, doctors make mistakes. Only you know your body and only you know for sure if what the doctor is saying and prescribing is working. If it isn't speak up, don't be afraid, only you can fully fight for yourself.
Secondly, natural over chemical. Medicine is not a bad thing or a four letter word. Medicine can do wonders for some, but the same medicine can be a detriment for others. Taking a chemical also has long term effects that doctors do not tell you. However, if you can take something that is natural and works the same as a chemical please take the natural. The key I have found is to find the holistic and science side and combine them. Find what works for you, without putting your body through the ringer.
YOU MUST TRUST YOURSELF, YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE WHO KNOWS YOU. QUESTION DOCTORS, AND RESEARCH
After the surgery, I finally said the doctors haven't been able to help and I am going to take things into my own hands. I found the most common item that kept coming up in my research was Yogurt, more specific Yogurt with Probiotics.
Yogurt, I hate the taste and thought I would never be purchasing it on a weekly basis. I know it is healthy and provides calcium which every woman needs, but that's not why I buy it. Eating yogurt actually worked better than one of the medications the doctors prescribed.
Candida Albicans is a yeast that occurs naturally in the human body. Normally it lives in harmony with a variety of other microorganisms and actually performs a couple important functions. The problem occurs when something upsets the balance of bacteria in the body and this allows the yeast organism to proliferate and take over all the healthy microorganisms.
There are many symptoms that come with this and it DOES NOT just affect women, men have symptoms as well. Some of the symptoms are;
A few of the symptoms are similar to Fibromyalgia and can worsen your Fibro symptoms.
Is Yogurt the cure? No, not at all. I still have some problems, but the Yogurt has had more benefits than any other medication that the doctors have put me on. A natural substance over a chemical substance. When they spoke to the doctors they were all very dismissive "Oh yes, that helps as well".
There is a Candida diet, very similar to the Fibromyalgia diet. Basically no sugars, no processed food, and as natural and organic as possible, I know no fun.
What is my point? I have two.
The first, trust yourself. I have two friends who were diagnosed with Fibro, mainly because the doctors just did not want to deal with them anymore and didn't believe it was Fibro. After speaking with me, they went into the doctors and found out that they had Candida. Please do not take what the doctors say as the word of god. Doctors are wrong, doctors are not always helpful, doctors make mistakes. Only you know your body and only you know for sure if what the doctor is saying and prescribing is working. If it isn't speak up, don't be afraid, only you can fully fight for yourself.
Secondly, natural over chemical. Medicine is not a bad thing or a four letter word. Medicine can do wonders for some, but the same medicine can be a detriment for others. Taking a chemical also has long term effects that doctors do not tell you. However, if you can take something that is natural and works the same as a chemical please take the natural. The key I have found is to find the holistic and science side and combine them. Find what works for you, without putting your body through the ringer.
YOU MUST TRUST YOURSELF, YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE WHO KNOWS YOU. QUESTION DOCTORS, AND RESEARCH
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Guilt & More Guilt
The first snow day of the year, the first snow day in 3 years and my kids were so excited, especially my daughter it was her first snow day. We knew the night before and we had planned to take the new sleds out for a test drive. I woke up my body told me NOPE DON'T THINK SO...
I woke with the beginnings of the flu, and the beginnings of an attack. I would fight through the flu, but an attack you can't work through it. In my mind I was trying to figure out any way possible for me to get on the hills. I thought lay down on the couch for a bit and we can go after lunch. That was laughable, after I got up cooked lunch, did the dishes I was done, the pain was getting worse and I could no longer stand without the room spinning around.
I felt so guilty I couldn't take my kids out sledding. A tradition. An activity that we all love.
My kids were great, they checked my temperature, played cards with me and were very gentle. They understood and still had fun, still played, and we read together, but I felt so guilty.
I am not great when I have something a certain way planned in my head and it doesn't go that way, I get upset and frustrated (I like things to go my way, yes I know how that sounds, but I'm honest). But to not be able to do something because your body isn't working is maddening. I know my children are disappointed, but they made the best out of the situation. I love them for that.
However, guilt works wonders on a mother. I usually order takeout for dinner when I am not doing so good. Not last night, I had promised my daughter Tuesday night that she could cook dinner, she loves to cook dinner (from scratch) and I encourage what they love. At 4:30 my daughter asked with her apron on,
"Mommy you ready to start cooking?"
My body was saying NO and the pain shooting through my body was making its point, but my heart and head said you promised. I stood up, felt the room spin, and was the sous chef. We made Roast with Homemade Macaroni and Cheese. My body made me pay, and still is, but to see the pride in my daughters face made any pain worth it.
How do you deal with the guilt? Even if the children understand and they are not upset it doesn't help in the guilt, in fact it makes it greater.
I try with all that I have, not to let my Fibro affect my children and their activities, but it is not possible. When you are unable to stand, see straight, or the pain is blinding it is going to affect your children and what you can do with them. I am thankful for it not stopping me everyday, but the days it does the guilt is overwhelming.
How do you deal with guilt?
I woke with the beginnings of the flu, and the beginnings of an attack. I would fight through the flu, but an attack you can't work through it. In my mind I was trying to figure out any way possible for me to get on the hills. I thought lay down on the couch for a bit and we can go after lunch. That was laughable, after I got up cooked lunch, did the dishes I was done, the pain was getting worse and I could no longer stand without the room spinning around.
I felt so guilty I couldn't take my kids out sledding. A tradition. An activity that we all love.
My kids were great, they checked my temperature, played cards with me and were very gentle. They understood and still had fun, still played, and we read together, but I felt so guilty.
I am not great when I have something a certain way planned in my head and it doesn't go that way, I get upset and frustrated (I like things to go my way, yes I know how that sounds, but I'm honest). But to not be able to do something because your body isn't working is maddening. I know my children are disappointed, but they made the best out of the situation. I love them for that.
However, guilt works wonders on a mother. I usually order takeout for dinner when I am not doing so good. Not last night, I had promised my daughter Tuesday night that she could cook dinner, she loves to cook dinner (from scratch) and I encourage what they love. At 4:30 my daughter asked with her apron on,
"Mommy you ready to start cooking?"
My body was saying NO and the pain shooting through my body was making its point, but my heart and head said you promised. I stood up, felt the room spin, and was the sous chef. We made Roast with Homemade Macaroni and Cheese. My body made me pay, and still is, but to see the pride in my daughters face made any pain worth it.
How do you deal with the guilt? Even if the children understand and they are not upset it doesn't help in the guilt, in fact it makes it greater.
I try with all that I have, not to let my Fibro affect my children and their activities, but it is not possible. When you are unable to stand, see straight, or the pain is blinding it is going to affect your children and what you can do with them. I am thankful for it not stopping me everyday, but the days it does the guilt is overwhelming.
How do you deal with guilt?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Medication & Children
It is almost as if the doctors want to medicate you to shut you up. If you are in enough of a daze then you are unable to question them. Or they beat you down that you finally just get fed up and give up. I have done that before and had to take a summer off from all of the doctors all medications and anything that was medical related and gather myself together. By the time you have found a doctor that believes you and will listen and work with you, you are too tired and the fight is out of you.
My question to a doctor evertime they try to prescribe me a medication (I am currently not any except vitamins)
"How is it going to affect my children?"
Every time (except my regular doctor) the doctor looks at me with a questionable look, and then proceeds to say
"I don't understand you"
And I say to them
"How is it going to affect my children? Am I going to be able to take it when I have my children? Am I going to be able to wake up if my son has an Asthma attack in the middle of the night? Am I going to be dazed? Is my reaction time going to be slower?"
And every time the doctor says
"If it helps does it matter"
Are these doctors out of their mind. Yes it does matter, if I am unable to take care of my children why would I want to take the medication. If my son has an Asthma attack (which is very possible) and I cant wake up then what will happen. Even on the less serious side if one of my children has a nightmare and I cant come and give them a hug, that is not the type of mom I want to be. A mother has to be aware and alert at all times, and be able to do things without the hindrance of medication, especially a single mother.
Do doctors even think about what happens when you take that pill. The pill may do what they prescribed it for, but what about the side affects and what it does to what you are capable of doing.
Please everyone, before taking a medication please, please, please research the medication first. The medication may make you capable of doing less than prior to the medication, or the side effects may out way the benefits. The side effects do not just happen to you, they happen to all those around you as well.
Comments welcome
Laugh lots
My question to a doctor evertime they try to prescribe me a medication (I am currently not any except vitamins)
"How is it going to affect my children?"
Every time (except my regular doctor) the doctor looks at me with a questionable look, and then proceeds to say
"I don't understand you"
And I say to them
"How is it going to affect my children? Am I going to be able to take it when I have my children? Am I going to be able to wake up if my son has an Asthma attack in the middle of the night? Am I going to be dazed? Is my reaction time going to be slower?"
And every time the doctor says
"If it helps does it matter"
Are these doctors out of their mind. Yes it does matter, if I am unable to take care of my children why would I want to take the medication. If my son has an Asthma attack (which is very possible) and I cant wake up then what will happen. Even on the less serious side if one of my children has a nightmare and I cant come and give them a hug, that is not the type of mom I want to be. A mother has to be aware and alert at all times, and be able to do things without the hindrance of medication, especially a single mother.
Do doctors even think about what happens when you take that pill. The pill may do what they prescribed it for, but what about the side affects and what it does to what you are capable of doing.
Please everyone, before taking a medication please, please, please research the medication first. The medication may make you capable of doing less than prior to the medication, or the side effects may out way the benefits. The side effects do not just happen to you, they happen to all those around you as well.
Comments welcome
Laugh lots
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Easy To Say Not As Easy To Do
Although it doesn't look like it from the followers I have, all 2 of them, I received a lot of responses regarding my last two posts regarding children, the good and bad of having a parent who is sick. Much to my surprise most of them negative.
The majority of the negative comments were I should lie to my children, or people who live with chronic pain should lie to their children and not tell them what is happening. My question to them is what are we supposed to tell our children? Especially the single parents who do not have the help of taking care of the children when we have a bad day, or need to use a cane, or have to go into the hospital, or have to go to the doctors and do not have anyone to watch the children, what do we tell them?
I am a strong believer in telling children the truth. Obviously you don't go into the detail that you would with your doctor but you tell them the truth and details that are appropriate, you tell the truth in terms that is to their age. There are multiple people who believe otherwise, don't tell the children, if you have to lie. To me this makes them worry more.
The other statement that was repeated was, "tell them you are the adult, and they are the child and they do not have to worry". Just because they are children does not mean that they do not worry. Secondly, it is easy to say, but not easy to do. How many times have you received advice, or someone has told you something and you have thought "that was easy to say but try doing it"? Why is it different for children? I have told my children not to worry, I have explained to them numerous times that I have it because I can handle it, however no matter how many times I have told them this they still worry. I can tell them until I am blue in my face, until pigs fly, or until the end of time not to worry that doesn't mean that they won't. The one thing that does work, and has helped considerably is telling them if it is something serious I will tell you. This has helped because they know I will tell them, and they don't have to worry over everyday little things, or the days I do use my cane.
The truth works wonders, and I believe if you explain to your children, and not lie, it can help. But no matter how much you tell them not to worry they are going to worry, just like you. Children are no different. The other thing is if you lie to children, when they find out their is always a sense of mistrust. If something happens in the future then they do not know if you are telling them the whole truth, part of the truth, or the truth you want them to hear. I know I do not want my children to ever doubt what I say to them. Also what about the times that you say don't worry over and over, and your child finally clues in that them worrying can put more stress on you. They will hide their feelings, and lie to you in order to save you stress. Your child will no longer be open with you.
My feelings and thoughts, which I do not expect everyone to agree with, is that honesty with children whether it is something trivial or serious is important and key for them. They need to understand, they need to make sense of what is going on around them and without the truth they cannot do this.
The last point I want to address is that I was very seriously told by more than one person, more than a handful of people that it is wrong to let my children help me out. My children do no more than I did at their ages. They help with the chores, they clean their rooms, and other various things I did. However they are in tune when I have a good and bad day. On a bad day they know if we get up to get something to drink to ask mommy if she needs something, or on a bad day maybe lets keep the noise down a bit. Do not think I let my children do the cooking, cleaning and all I do is sit on the couch as one lady so elegantly stated to me.
I do appreciate all of your comments, please in the future post directly on the site and do not email. I will not post anything on the blog without your permission, so just post directly.
Thank you
Laugh Lots
The majority of the negative comments were I should lie to my children, or people who live with chronic pain should lie to their children and not tell them what is happening. My question to them is what are we supposed to tell our children? Especially the single parents who do not have the help of taking care of the children when we have a bad day, or need to use a cane, or have to go into the hospital, or have to go to the doctors and do not have anyone to watch the children, what do we tell them?
I am a strong believer in telling children the truth. Obviously you don't go into the detail that you would with your doctor but you tell them the truth and details that are appropriate, you tell the truth in terms that is to their age. There are multiple people who believe otherwise, don't tell the children, if you have to lie. To me this makes them worry more.
The other statement that was repeated was, "tell them you are the adult, and they are the child and they do not have to worry". Just because they are children does not mean that they do not worry. Secondly, it is easy to say, but not easy to do. How many times have you received advice, or someone has told you something and you have thought "that was easy to say but try doing it"? Why is it different for children? I have told my children not to worry, I have explained to them numerous times that I have it because I can handle it, however no matter how many times I have told them this they still worry. I can tell them until I am blue in my face, until pigs fly, or until the end of time not to worry that doesn't mean that they won't. The one thing that does work, and has helped considerably is telling them if it is something serious I will tell you. This has helped because they know I will tell them, and they don't have to worry over everyday little things, or the days I do use my cane.
The truth works wonders, and I believe if you explain to your children, and not lie, it can help. But no matter how much you tell them not to worry they are going to worry, just like you. Children are no different. The other thing is if you lie to children, when they find out their is always a sense of mistrust. If something happens in the future then they do not know if you are telling them the whole truth, part of the truth, or the truth you want them to hear. I know I do not want my children to ever doubt what I say to them. Also what about the times that you say don't worry over and over, and your child finally clues in that them worrying can put more stress on you. They will hide their feelings, and lie to you in order to save you stress. Your child will no longer be open with you.
My feelings and thoughts, which I do not expect everyone to agree with, is that honesty with children whether it is something trivial or serious is important and key for them. They need to understand, they need to make sense of what is going on around them and without the truth they cannot do this.
The last point I want to address is that I was very seriously told by more than one person, more than a handful of people that it is wrong to let my children help me out. My children do no more than I did at their ages. They help with the chores, they clean their rooms, and other various things I did. However they are in tune when I have a good and bad day. On a bad day they know if we get up to get something to drink to ask mommy if she needs something, or on a bad day maybe lets keep the noise down a bit. Do not think I let my children do the cooking, cleaning and all I do is sit on the couch as one lady so elegantly stated to me.
I do appreciate all of your comments, please in the future post directly on the site and do not email. I will not post anything on the blog without your permission, so just post directly.
Thank you
Laugh Lots
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)