So I've been talking about how my right elbow (the one I broke back in 2004) has been giving me a lot of trouble, and that my arthritis doc felt it was time to have the elbow replaced. Well, I finally was able to get in and see the orthopedic surgeon who did the surgery the first time. He is an amazing doctor and the only way I would ever consider getting any surgery done on my joints would be if he were to do it.
Funny part was, when the doctor first came in the room, I didn't think it was the same guy! 5 years ago, the last time I saw him, he was a pretty big guy, but he has had to have lost about 150-200. He looks great, it was just a shock when your expecting the guy you knew before to come walking in.
Anyway, he took a look at the elbow and the x-rays and said that doing a replacement due to arthritis or due to trauma is two different things. If it were just because my arthritis was acting up, the replacement would last longer, but because it has to be replaced due to trauma, it won't last as long, and he really doesn't want to see me go through that at 29. I told him that over the years I have learned to adapt to losing half the movement in the arm, and it doesn't bother me the way it is, except for the pain, popping, and clicking that has been going on the past few months. So he said he is going to do an outpatient procedure, were he will remove the radial head of the elbow, that is the bottom part of the elbow, think of where your elbow points. He thinks that will get rid of the pain and give me another 5 years with the elbow the way it is before we really have to consider replacement.
I then decided to ask him about knee replacements. I really wasn't, because frankly I have resigned myself to the fact that I was never going to walk again, and I've been ok with that. At this point it has been 4 years since I've last walked. Plus, my arthritis doctor said that with my osteoporosis, that doing a knee replacement might shatter my legs, and finding a doctor to do both knees at the same time, and at my age, will be difficult. So I asked the surgeon first about the possibility of my legs shattering during surgery and he said no, then asked if I ever had a bone density test and why I wasn't on meds for osteoporosis. I told him I've never had a doctor mention bone density or meds, so he is sending me in for the test (you stick your foot in a machine and it measures your bone density), and after that he will put me on some meds to make my bones stronger. He also said he could do the replacements. He asked if my ankles and hips were ok, and I told him my hips are fine, but my ankles always hurt me when I walk, a lot of that to do not only with the arthritis, but my weight. So he told me that last year he did the same surgery on a women who was 62, hadn't walked in 4 years, and was heavier then I was, and now she is doing great, walking on a treadmill everyday. I told him that frankly, I just would love to have the ability to walk around my house, and even go out by myself and be able to put my chair on the lift that's on the car, and then get out and go somewhere by myself. I still will need the chair to do any shopping or long walking, but being able to stand at the sink and wash my dishes would be great.
So I am going to get x-rays done of my knees, and we'll go from there. He said be prepared for some hospital time, and then in patient rehab before I'll be allowed to go home. Sometimes I've heard of people having to be at a rehab facility for a few months, but I think it will be worth it. First and foremost, I need to lose weight, and when you can get up and move, it is very hard to lose it. Being able to walk again will allow me to use some exercise machines and get my body moving. I want to be able to actually give my husband a hug standing up, and maybe even dance with him, since we've never gotten to do that. And for the future, I want to be able to take my kid to the park and push them on the swings and really play with them, not watch from the sidelines.
So all in all, the appointment went well. I haven't had a chance to blog about it until now because I have been so busy with my new job of processing rebates. It is a lot of work, and time consuming, and I will have to process a lot of rebates in order to make some good money, but I am willing to put in the time and effort to do it to help my family.
About Me
- Kimbo Central
- San Tan Valley, AZ, United States
- A wife and mommy to a beautiful three year old son, blogging about being a mommy, and taking care of my family.
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Friday, February 1, 2008
The medical troubles continue
Looks like I just can't win when it comes to trying to get better.
I know I haven't been blogging as much as I used to, and it's not because I don't want to, but because I have just been dealing with so much around here that at the end of the day I forgot about coming on here and updating everyone on what's going on.
So last time I wrote I told you how my doctor did a CT scan and found that my kidney was no longer swollen and looked back to normal, and he thought I wouldn't have any more problems with the infection coming back. Fast forward to a few days ago, and I am calling the doctor again because I started getting pain and tenderness in my right side, and something just told me to get it checked out. I went in and did a urine analysis (I have peed in a cup some many times these past few months it is ridicoulous), and he said the infection is definitely back. So he put me back on the antibiotics and gave me a referral to see a urologist. He said it is not normal to have recurring UTI's like this, and it is baffling because I drink nothing but water during the day, maybe a soda or two a day and that's it, and there is nothing else I am doing that would cause this to keep coming back, unless it is just my low immune system from my arthritis not being able to fight this. So I go in March to the urologist and they will put a camera in my bladder (sounds fun, eh?) and see if they can find a reason why it won't go away.
I alo went two days ago and say my gyno, to get my newest round of my Depo birth control shot, and get the results of my pap smear. She said she found abnormal cells, which most likely could be pre-cancerous cells, and in a few weeks I go back to have done a colposcopy, which is where she will put in a camera and check my cervix and take a bioposy and send it to a pathologist, where they will determine what is going on, and from there I might also need what is called a LEEP procedure, where they will cut out the part of my cervix where the lesion is. So not very good news there, but I have talked to a few people now who have gone through it, including my best friend, and they are all fine, so I have good thoughts.
Things have been crazy around here aside from all this medical drama. Phil's dad has been staying with us the past few weeks while he tries to get settled down here in the Valley again. Money issues never seem to go away. But despite all these, Phil and I are just trying to get by as best we can. We've been talking about getting married soon, we have been a little hesitant because the last two times we picked a day, I ended up in the hospital. But I have a great doctor now and these meds I am seem to be helping, so I don't think I will need to be rushed to the hospital again anytime soon.
So wish me luck on getting better soon, I feel so run down from all of this, it takes a lot of out you. But I am not as sick as I was and that is something to be grateful for. I also promise to write on here more now that I have more time again to do so.
I know I haven't been blogging as much as I used to, and it's not because I don't want to, but because I have just been dealing with so much around here that at the end of the day I forgot about coming on here and updating everyone on what's going on.
So last time I wrote I told you how my doctor did a CT scan and found that my kidney was no longer swollen and looked back to normal, and he thought I wouldn't have any more problems with the infection coming back. Fast forward to a few days ago, and I am calling the doctor again because I started getting pain and tenderness in my right side, and something just told me to get it checked out. I went in and did a urine analysis (I have peed in a cup some many times these past few months it is ridicoulous), and he said the infection is definitely back. So he put me back on the antibiotics and gave me a referral to see a urologist. He said it is not normal to have recurring UTI's like this, and it is baffling because I drink nothing but water during the day, maybe a soda or two a day and that's it, and there is nothing else I am doing that would cause this to keep coming back, unless it is just my low immune system from my arthritis not being able to fight this. So I go in March to the urologist and they will put a camera in my bladder (sounds fun, eh?) and see if they can find a reason why it won't go away.
I alo went two days ago and say my gyno, to get my newest round of my Depo birth control shot, and get the results of my pap smear. She said she found abnormal cells, which most likely could be pre-cancerous cells, and in a few weeks I go back to have done a colposcopy, which is where she will put in a camera and check my cervix and take a bioposy and send it to a pathologist, where they will determine what is going on, and from there I might also need what is called a LEEP procedure, where they will cut out the part of my cervix where the lesion is. So not very good news there, but I have talked to a few people now who have gone through it, including my best friend, and they are all fine, so I have good thoughts.
Things have been crazy around here aside from all this medical drama. Phil's dad has been staying with us the past few weeks while he tries to get settled down here in the Valley again. Money issues never seem to go away. But despite all these, Phil and I are just trying to get by as best we can. We've been talking about getting married soon, we have been a little hesitant because the last two times we picked a day, I ended up in the hospital. But I have a great doctor now and these meds I am seem to be helping, so I don't think I will need to be rushed to the hospital again anytime soon.
So wish me luck on getting better soon, I feel so run down from all of this, it takes a lot of out you. But I am not as sick as I was and that is something to be grateful for. I also promise to write on here more now that I have more time again to do so.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Doctor Month
It seems that this month is turning out to be doctor month.
I had my appointment with my Primary Care Physician after having another urine analysis and CT scan, and he said that the urine showed a little bacteria which means I just needed a little more antibiotic, which I have already finished, and he said my kidney looks back to normal, no more of it being swollen. So he thinks that I should be all better from everything and that is wonderful news, because it has been way too long that I have been dealing with this.
I also went to see my Rheumatologist and he said I am doing well, but I had to get labs done yesterday because my iron levels were low and they aren't sure if it is because of the miscarriage or if I am more anemic that I have been. I have been taking iron pills and if my blood works comes back Monday and my iron is still low, I will just continue taking the iron, if not, then no more of that pill.
I also saw my OB/GYN the other day and she said there is no scarring from the miscarriage and the D&C I had, and the only thing she found was a few cysts in each breast, which she isn't too concerned about, especially since my mom has them too and so do my grandma's, but she is sending me to get an ultrasound just to make sure. I have had them for years, so I am not too worried about it, but it is really good that she is taking the safe approach to make sure. So I will be going back to her next month to get the results since I couldn't get into an ultrasound until next month, but I will be back at her office at the end of the month to get another shot of my Depo birth control shot.
So that has been my exciting doctor news. I am quite tired of doctors, but it is good to finally be getting checked out and getting a clean bill of health after all this is over. After being sick for so long, it is so nice to be feeling well again and going about life as normal.
I had my appointment with my Primary Care Physician after having another urine analysis and CT scan, and he said that the urine showed a little bacteria which means I just needed a little more antibiotic, which I have already finished, and he said my kidney looks back to normal, no more of it being swollen. So he thinks that I should be all better from everything and that is wonderful news, because it has been way too long that I have been dealing with this.
I also went to see my Rheumatologist and he said I am doing well, but I had to get labs done yesterday because my iron levels were low and they aren't sure if it is because of the miscarriage or if I am more anemic that I have been. I have been taking iron pills and if my blood works comes back Monday and my iron is still low, I will just continue taking the iron, if not, then no more of that pill.
I also saw my OB/GYN the other day and she said there is no scarring from the miscarriage and the D&C I had, and the only thing she found was a few cysts in each breast, which she isn't too concerned about, especially since my mom has them too and so do my grandma's, but she is sending me to get an ultrasound just to make sure. I have had them for years, so I am not too worried about it, but it is really good that she is taking the safe approach to make sure. So I will be going back to her next month to get the results since I couldn't get into an ultrasound until next month, but I will be back at her office at the end of the month to get another shot of my Depo birth control shot.
So that has been my exciting doctor news. I am quite tired of doctors, but it is good to finally be getting checked out and getting a clean bill of health after all this is over. After being sick for so long, it is so nice to be feeling well again and going about life as normal.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Doctor Time
I had an appointment this afternoon with my new primary care physcian, to have him look over the medical records the hospital sent over regarding my kidney infection, and to get checked to see how I am doing. I was nervous going into the appointment, I had never met him before and was hoping he was not only a nice doctor with a good bedside manner, but also one who was going to be knowledgeable and help me with my situation.
The doctor's office was very nice and clean, which was good, and the reception staff was friendly, which I took as a good sign. After filling out the new patient paperwork, I was taken back into the room right away and the doctor came in soon after that. He was dressed very professionally, in a black suit, nice shoes, hair done nice. He was very nice, and took the time to really read through my medical records, and input my information into his computer himself, instead of having a nurse to do. He asked me questions and answered mine, and wasn't in a rush to get the appointment over with.
In regards to my kidney infection, he put me back on the antibiotics that I was on when I came home from the hospital. I've been having a little more pain then usually in my right side starting on Sunday, and he said that it seems this infection may still be there a bit. He had me do a urine test and said it takes two days for him to get the results back, and he'd rather me be on meds and then have me stop them because the infection is gone, rather then have me really sick and back in the hospital before getting the results back. I really appreciated that, because I do not want to go through what I went through before, and I really would like to have this year be free of hosptial stays. He also gave me orders to go get a catscan so he can see the differences between the one I had in the hospital when I was sick, and now. Then I go back next Thursday to get the results. He said I probably got this infection because I passed a stone, and the residual effects of passing the stone irritated the kidney and caused the infection. He did say that I probably am not going to have a problem with stones in the future, which is very good.
So overall the appointment went really well and I was so glad that he is a good doctor and is taking the time to run the neccesary tests to make sure I am ok. I feel confident that I am getting the treatment I need and can finally be on the mend.
The doctor's office was very nice and clean, which was good, and the reception staff was friendly, which I took as a good sign. After filling out the new patient paperwork, I was taken back into the room right away and the doctor came in soon after that. He was dressed very professionally, in a black suit, nice shoes, hair done nice. He was very nice, and took the time to really read through my medical records, and input my information into his computer himself, instead of having a nurse to do. He asked me questions and answered mine, and wasn't in a rush to get the appointment over with.
In regards to my kidney infection, he put me back on the antibiotics that I was on when I came home from the hospital. I've been having a little more pain then usually in my right side starting on Sunday, and he said that it seems this infection may still be there a bit. He had me do a urine test and said it takes two days for him to get the results back, and he'd rather me be on meds and then have me stop them because the infection is gone, rather then have me really sick and back in the hospital before getting the results back. I really appreciated that, because I do not want to go through what I went through before, and I really would like to have this year be free of hosptial stays. He also gave me orders to go get a catscan so he can see the differences between the one I had in the hospital when I was sick, and now. Then I go back next Thursday to get the results. He said I probably got this infection because I passed a stone, and the residual effects of passing the stone irritated the kidney and caused the infection. He did say that I probably am not going to have a problem with stones in the future, which is very good.
So overall the appointment went really well and I was so glad that he is a good doctor and is taking the time to run the neccesary tests to make sure I am ok. I feel confident that I am getting the treatment I need and can finally be on the mend.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Not Again...
Guess who was back in the hospital again :(
I've been feeling really good and was so glad to be on the mend, when Tuesday night my right side where my kidneys are starting hurting very bad, and kept getting worse through the night. In the middle of the night I starting getting violently sick almost every hour, and I knew then that I was passing another kidney stone. The next day Phil took me into the ER where after a cat scan and ultrasound, they said I passed a stone AND the infection never went away the first time. They sent me home and told me to come back the next day for a checkup, and the next day I felt worse, so I was admitted and put on heavy antibiotics. I was in there for three days and on Sunday, the doctor tried to keep me another day because he said I was anemic, which I always have been since I have arthritis, and it is nothing new. I told him no, I was feeling so much better and would have rather seen the bed go to someone who could have used it instead of me who wasn't even using an IV.
So I am feeling a lot better. The side is still tender, and I even once in awhile will get a little twinge of pain, but the nurse said that is normal until the infection clears up. I am also on the heavy antibiotics for the next seven days, and then the medicine stays in your system for a month, so that gives me enough time to get in and see my primary care doctor and see what we can do about making sure the infection is gone for good, and stays gone.
Luckily, I am home for Christmas! I baked yesterday with my grandma and I was so disappointed. I love baking and my oatmeal raisin cookies are what everyone raves about, but they came out so bad in my oven, flat and ugly and even though they taste good, there is no way I would want to give them to anymore for Christmas. I guess it is just an old stove. So now I have a ton of oatmeal raisin and chocolate chips cookies. I am going to try making some sugar cookies later in the week, maybe they will come out better.
This is going to be a busy weekend for us. Saturday we are going to my Grandma Beth's house for dinner, and during the day we are going to finish up some Christmas shopping. Sunday night it is over to my Grandma Joan's for dinner for her and my parents, and Christmas Eve and Day we are spending it both at my parents. My parents and I always have the tradition of opening our presents on Christmas Eve, and then having a big dinner on Christmas Day. So I am looking forward to it so much, and I will be sure to take lots of pictures!
Merry Christmas!
I've been feeling really good and was so glad to be on the mend, when Tuesday night my right side where my kidneys are starting hurting very bad, and kept getting worse through the night. In the middle of the night I starting getting violently sick almost every hour, and I knew then that I was passing another kidney stone. The next day Phil took me into the ER where after a cat scan and ultrasound, they said I passed a stone AND the infection never went away the first time. They sent me home and told me to come back the next day for a checkup, and the next day I felt worse, so I was admitted and put on heavy antibiotics. I was in there for three days and on Sunday, the doctor tried to keep me another day because he said I was anemic, which I always have been since I have arthritis, and it is nothing new. I told him no, I was feeling so much better and would have rather seen the bed go to someone who could have used it instead of me who wasn't even using an IV.
So I am feeling a lot better. The side is still tender, and I even once in awhile will get a little twinge of pain, but the nurse said that is normal until the infection clears up. I am also on the heavy antibiotics for the next seven days, and then the medicine stays in your system for a month, so that gives me enough time to get in and see my primary care doctor and see what we can do about making sure the infection is gone for good, and stays gone.
Luckily, I am home for Christmas! I baked yesterday with my grandma and I was so disappointed. I love baking and my oatmeal raisin cookies are what everyone raves about, but they came out so bad in my oven, flat and ugly and even though they taste good, there is no way I would want to give them to anymore for Christmas. I guess it is just an old stove. So now I have a ton of oatmeal raisin and chocolate chips cookies. I am going to try making some sugar cookies later in the week, maybe they will come out better.
This is going to be a busy weekend for us. Saturday we are going to my Grandma Beth's house for dinner, and during the day we are going to finish up some Christmas shopping. Sunday night it is over to my Grandma Joan's for dinner for her and my parents, and Christmas Eve and Day we are spending it both at my parents. My parents and I always have the tradition of opening our presents on Christmas Eve, and then having a big dinner on Christmas Day. So I am looking forward to it so much, and I will be sure to take lots of pictures!
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
The most wonderful time of year
Wow, I feel like I haven't blogged in such a long time, even though it was just after Thanksgiving. Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about you blog friends, I just wasn't feeling like myself. I had no energy after coming home from the hospital and didn't feel like doing much of anything. But I am happy to report that I am doing so much better. I am feeling more like myself, I am able to do more around the house without having to take a nap afterward, and I even feel like cooking again, which makes Phil happy because he loves my cooking more then his.
I am so glad I am feeling better, because this is my favorite time of year: Christmas Time! The weather has been getting really nice and cool here, even downright cold at night, meaning I have been bundling up anytime I go outside. People have Christmas decorations and lights up which I love to look at, and can't wait for when we take a ride around this weekend to different neighborhoods that we know of that have really nicely decorated houses. And Phil bought us our very first Christmas tree. We got a fake tree, because they look nice and last for many Christmas seasons to come. I wanted a 6ft tree, but we have a small apartment and with how our furniture is arranged, there just isn't a place where it would work, plus Brandi is at that age where she chews at things, and we don't need a doggie chewed tree. So Phil went to Wal-Mart and found a cute 3ft tree that fits so nicely on on of our end tables. As soon as he came home with it, we fluffed it up and he put on lights and we put up some ornaments and even tinsel. But the tree isn't done yet. We went over for dinner at my parent's house this past Sunday and my mom gave me some ornaments from the many that she has, so now I need to put those on the tree and finish decorating the house with my many snowmen things that I have. Yup, I love snowmen.
Another thing I love about this time of year is that I get to do all my holiday baking. There is nothing I love more then spending the day in the kitchen baking goodies and then watching people enjoy them.
I hope that all of you out there love the holidays as much as I do, and I am sure you all have your own traditions that you love to do this time of year.
Merry Christmas!
I am so glad I am feeling better, because this is my favorite time of year: Christmas Time! The weather has been getting really nice and cool here, even downright cold at night, meaning I have been bundling up anytime I go outside. People have Christmas decorations and lights up which I love to look at, and can't wait for when we take a ride around this weekend to different neighborhoods that we know of that have really nicely decorated houses. And Phil bought us our very first Christmas tree. We got a fake tree, because they look nice and last for many Christmas seasons to come. I wanted a 6ft tree, but we have a small apartment and with how our furniture is arranged, there just isn't a place where it would work, plus Brandi is at that age where she chews at things, and we don't need a doggie chewed tree. So Phil went to Wal-Mart and found a cute 3ft tree that fits so nicely on on of our end tables. As soon as he came home with it, we fluffed it up and he put on lights and we put up some ornaments and even tinsel. But the tree isn't done yet. We went over for dinner at my parent's house this past Sunday and my mom gave me some ornaments from the many that she has, so now I need to put those on the tree and finish decorating the house with my many snowmen things that I have. Yup, I love snowmen.
Another thing I love about this time of year is that I get to do all my holiday baking. There is nothing I love more then spending the day in the kitchen baking goodies and then watching people enjoy them.
I hope that all of you out there love the holidays as much as I do, and I am sure you all have your own traditions that you love to do this time of year.
Merry Christmas!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Gobble, Gobble
I hope you all had a happy and safe Turkey day!
Since coming home from the hospital last week, I was so drained of all my energy and could barely take a shower without having to take a nap afterward. So I rested up all week to be able to feel better for Thanksgiving and it worked! Phil and I spent the holiday at my parent's house and dinner was amazing, as always, and we came home with so many leftovers, not to mention a huge apple pie that we haven't even had a piece of yet.
Now, this means it is officially my favorite time of year....Christmas!! I am so excited to have my own place to decorate this year. I was going to get a 6ft tree that I saw at Walmart for $20, but after looking around here, there really isn't a great space for me to put it, so we are going to get a pre-lit 4 or 5ft tree that will fit perfectly on one of our end tables, plus this way we don't have to worry about the dog eating it, since Brandi is at the age where she eats everything. And once my mom goes through her Christmas boxes, she is going to give me my snowman stuff, since I adore snowmen and love this time of year so I can bring them all out.
So as you can see, I am feeling better. I am starting to feel like myself again, finally, which I wasn't sure was going to happen. I don't have all my energy back, but I find that I can do more things around the house before having to take a rest and I am starting to act more like myself, instead of just sitting around feeling so down in the dumps. I am dealing with the miscarriage well too, I was really sad about it at first, which is to be expected, and it was hard for me to even look at anything that was a baby or was baby-related. And even though I do get sad now when I think about it, I know that it was for the best and that when we try again, we're going to have a happy and healthy baby. But there are times, when I see people with babies who you know shouldn't be parents, I wonder why do they get to have a baby and I couldn't. But I think that is to be expected.
Right now I am just putting all my focus on the upcoming holiday and making it the best ever. Phil hasn't really had a Christmas as an adult, he said he never usually puts up a tree or anything, so I am looking forward to giving him a really Merry Christmas. Oh, and I know that most of you knew that Phil and I were supposed to be getting married this week, but we had to cancel the wedding and the reception since there was no way I was feeling up to both. So I was very disappointed because I was so looking forward to everything, and had been for the past month. But we decided that we are going to get married after the first of the year, this way it is after the holiday, which is always a busy time for everyone. We also decided that we are going to get married and have the reception on the same day, so that our family can see us get married, which is important to us.
Well, that's about all the updates I have for right now, so time for me to get off here and get some dinner started, because this is one hungry Kimbo. Talk to you soon blog friends!
Since coming home from the hospital last week, I was so drained of all my energy and could barely take a shower without having to take a nap afterward. So I rested up all week to be able to feel better for Thanksgiving and it worked! Phil and I spent the holiday at my parent's house and dinner was amazing, as always, and we came home with so many leftovers, not to mention a huge apple pie that we haven't even had a piece of yet.
Now, this means it is officially my favorite time of year....Christmas!! I am so excited to have my own place to decorate this year. I was going to get a 6ft tree that I saw at Walmart for $20, but after looking around here, there really isn't a great space for me to put it, so we are going to get a pre-lit 4 or 5ft tree that will fit perfectly on one of our end tables, plus this way we don't have to worry about the dog eating it, since Brandi is at the age where she eats everything. And once my mom goes through her Christmas boxes, she is going to give me my snowman stuff, since I adore snowmen and love this time of year so I can bring them all out.
So as you can see, I am feeling better. I am starting to feel like myself again, finally, which I wasn't sure was going to happen. I don't have all my energy back, but I find that I can do more things around the house before having to take a rest and I am starting to act more like myself, instead of just sitting around feeling so down in the dumps. I am dealing with the miscarriage well too, I was really sad about it at first, which is to be expected, and it was hard for me to even look at anything that was a baby or was baby-related. And even though I do get sad now when I think about it, I know that it was for the best and that when we try again, we're going to have a happy and healthy baby. But there are times, when I see people with babies who you know shouldn't be parents, I wonder why do they get to have a baby and I couldn't. But I think that is to be expected.
Right now I am just putting all my focus on the upcoming holiday and making it the best ever. Phil hasn't really had a Christmas as an adult, he said he never usually puts up a tree or anything, so I am looking forward to giving him a really Merry Christmas. Oh, and I know that most of you knew that Phil and I were supposed to be getting married this week, but we had to cancel the wedding and the reception since there was no way I was feeling up to both. So I was very disappointed because I was so looking forward to everything, and had been for the past month. But we decided that we are going to get married after the first of the year, this way it is after the holiday, which is always a busy time for everyone. We also decided that we are going to get married and have the reception on the same day, so that our family can see us get married, which is important to us.
Well, that's about all the updates I have for right now, so time for me to get off here and get some dinner started, because this is one hungry Kimbo. Talk to you soon blog friends!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Where I've been and sad news
First off, let me apologize for not being online and blogging, but things have been pretty difficult here around Kimbo Central.
Two weeks ago I started having some pain in my lower right side, where my kidney's are. The pain kept getting worse to the point where I couldn't lay down, sit, and eventually I was unable to keep down any food or liquids. Phil took me into the ER, where it turned out I had a serious, raging kidney infection, to the point where if I had waited a few more days before coming into the hospital, it would have killed me. I was admitted and since I was so dehydrated, I was put on IV fluids and antibiotics.
On Tuesday morning, around 4am, I started bleeding and after an ultrasound and exam, we found out I was having a miscarriage. Luckily, I was still in the hospital at the time, but it was the worst experience I have ever gone through. I spent the entire day cramping and bleeding until that evening, when I was able to get into surgery and have a DNC, where they scrap your uterus.
I finally was able to come home on Thursday, and the doctor said that it is going to take about three weeks for me to get back on my feet again. I have no energy whatsoever and spend most of the time laying on the couch resting and catching a nap or two during the day. Phil has been really good, taking care of me, and I am on antibiotics which are helping the infection in my kidney's go away completely (they think I had a stone that I passed, which caused the infection), and also on iron pills, since I lost so much blood with the miscarriage.
As for that, this has had to be the hardest thing I have ever gone through. Even though I was only 7 weeks along, it was still our child, and we loved it very much. We were so looking forward to being parents and were so happy about being pregnant. It is definitely a loss, and one we are dealing with. We've each had our moments, and even though I went through a period where I thought it was my fault, it wasn't. The doctor said that every women has at least one miscarriage in her life, and that this is the body and nature's way of taking care of something that wasn't right. We will have a baby in the future, we know this. It just wasn't the right time right now, and as hard as it is to deal with, at least our baby is in a better place.
Thank you to everyone who has helped me out through all of this, and been there for me. If you don't see me blogging a lot, it is because I am doing a lot of resting to get better. But I am still here, and getting better everyday.
Two weeks ago I started having some pain in my lower right side, where my kidney's are. The pain kept getting worse to the point where I couldn't lay down, sit, and eventually I was unable to keep down any food or liquids. Phil took me into the ER, where it turned out I had a serious, raging kidney infection, to the point where if I had waited a few more days before coming into the hospital, it would have killed me. I was admitted and since I was so dehydrated, I was put on IV fluids and antibiotics.
On Tuesday morning, around 4am, I started bleeding and after an ultrasound and exam, we found out I was having a miscarriage. Luckily, I was still in the hospital at the time, but it was the worst experience I have ever gone through. I spent the entire day cramping and bleeding until that evening, when I was able to get into surgery and have a DNC, where they scrap your uterus.
I finally was able to come home on Thursday, and the doctor said that it is going to take about three weeks for me to get back on my feet again. I have no energy whatsoever and spend most of the time laying on the couch resting and catching a nap or two during the day. Phil has been really good, taking care of me, and I am on antibiotics which are helping the infection in my kidney's go away completely (they think I had a stone that I passed, which caused the infection), and also on iron pills, since I lost so much blood with the miscarriage.
As for that, this has had to be the hardest thing I have ever gone through. Even though I was only 7 weeks along, it was still our child, and we loved it very much. We were so looking forward to being parents and were so happy about being pregnant. It is definitely a loss, and one we are dealing with. We've each had our moments, and even though I went through a period where I thought it was my fault, it wasn't. The doctor said that every women has at least one miscarriage in her life, and that this is the body and nature's way of taking care of something that wasn't right. We will have a baby in the future, we know this. It just wasn't the right time right now, and as hard as it is to deal with, at least our baby is in a better place.
Thank you to everyone who has helped me out through all of this, and been there for me. If you don't see me blogging a lot, it is because I am doing a lot of resting to get better. But I am still here, and getting better everyday.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
I feel...off....
I woke up yesterday to the room spinning. That is just the most awful feeling in the world, being so dizzy you can't even sit up. I haven't had that in a long time. I was able in the afternoon to function and sit up, but I still had that weird lightheaded, floating feeling.
I woke this morning a little better, but still lightheaded throughout the day. I also felt extremely tired, my eyes felt heavy, like I could have just fallen asleep at anytime. I felt hungry and sick, but when I ate I still felt sick.
I am doing better tonight, my head doesn't hurt, and I am feeling more level-headed. I think some of it might be from stress and from lack of sleep. I've had a lot on my mind lately, and I've just got to let it go. I'm an over thinker by nature, and its just, unimportant. It's things I can't do anything about, I can't change, and its silly for me to even be bothered by it. But I always try to make things right, I always try to fix things. But sometimes what I want, and what actually happens, is different, and that's life. Worrying about it isn't going to do a damn thing. And life is too short.
Sleep has been a funny thing for me lately too. I've been so tired, yet I can't sleep. When I do get to sleep, I am having the most strangest dreams ever! Dreams so deep and involved that I wake up and wonder where the hell it came from! Is it possible to be exhausted from a dream? Cause lately I wake up from my dreams more exhausted then I was before I went to bed!
Other then that...things have been pretty good. I've been back and forth on the dating thing, whether I should keep an ad up I have one eHarmony, because I have gotten some requests for communication. So I decided I'll keep just that ad up, and see what pans out. I'm not taking an active role on there, if someone writes to me, then I will respond if it is someone I would be interested in. I figure, it can't hurt. I've got no other prospects right now.
I also had a great idea come to me for a book, it just hit me the other day and this entire scenario just started playing out in my head, so I quickly grabbed the laptop and started writing out character bios and back stories and started doing a lot of brain-storming. Now, I have always had trouble when it comes to writing an actual book, I do really well with poetry, and short stories. But I really feel like I could do this, and I think the story, if I can convey it, will be intriguing, mysterious, and suspenseful. This is something I have always wanted to do, write a book. Its going to take awhile, of course, but I've got the time right now to do a lot of writing, and I've got an excellent foundation to start on. And I know in my head exactly how I want the story to start, how I want it to end, and what to happen in the middle.
I'm also getting into my photography again. For awhile I was really into going around and taking pictures, whether it be of nature, kids playing, people, anything. I love pictures, to be able to capture a memory like that, to show people your view of life, from your perspective. I've always wanted to put together a collection of my photos. I am thinking of taking a photography class, to perfect my skills. This is just my time, to do things that I love, get back to hobbies that I put aside for one reason or another. I'd even love to get back into my music again.
So, this is turning out to be a good time in my life....
I woke this morning a little better, but still lightheaded throughout the day. I also felt extremely tired, my eyes felt heavy, like I could have just fallen asleep at anytime. I felt hungry and sick, but when I ate I still felt sick.
I am doing better tonight, my head doesn't hurt, and I am feeling more level-headed. I think some of it might be from stress and from lack of sleep. I've had a lot on my mind lately, and I've just got to let it go. I'm an over thinker by nature, and its just, unimportant. It's things I can't do anything about, I can't change, and its silly for me to even be bothered by it. But I always try to make things right, I always try to fix things. But sometimes what I want, and what actually happens, is different, and that's life. Worrying about it isn't going to do a damn thing. And life is too short.
Sleep has been a funny thing for me lately too. I've been so tired, yet I can't sleep. When I do get to sleep, I am having the most strangest dreams ever! Dreams so deep and involved that I wake up and wonder where the hell it came from! Is it possible to be exhausted from a dream? Cause lately I wake up from my dreams more exhausted then I was before I went to bed!
Other then that...things have been pretty good. I've been back and forth on the dating thing, whether I should keep an ad up I have one eHarmony, because I have gotten some requests for communication. So I decided I'll keep just that ad up, and see what pans out. I'm not taking an active role on there, if someone writes to me, then I will respond if it is someone I would be interested in. I figure, it can't hurt. I've got no other prospects right now.
I also had a great idea come to me for a book, it just hit me the other day and this entire scenario just started playing out in my head, so I quickly grabbed the laptop and started writing out character bios and back stories and started doing a lot of brain-storming. Now, I have always had trouble when it comes to writing an actual book, I do really well with poetry, and short stories. But I really feel like I could do this, and I think the story, if I can convey it, will be intriguing, mysterious, and suspenseful. This is something I have always wanted to do, write a book. Its going to take awhile, of course, but I've got the time right now to do a lot of writing, and I've got an excellent foundation to start on. And I know in my head exactly how I want the story to start, how I want it to end, and what to happen in the middle.
I'm also getting into my photography again. For awhile I was really into going around and taking pictures, whether it be of nature, kids playing, people, anything. I love pictures, to be able to capture a memory like that, to show people your view of life, from your perspective. I've always wanted to put together a collection of my photos. I am thinking of taking a photography class, to perfect my skills. This is just my time, to do things that I love, get back to hobbies that I put aside for one reason or another. I'd even love to get back into my music again.
So, this is turning out to be a good time in my life....
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
National Arthritis Awareness Month
My friend Ryan posted a blog this morning about National Arthritis Awareness Month, and I felt it was appropriate for me to do the same. Ryan suffers from the same thing I do, Juvenile Rheuatoid Arthrits, and we have both had it from a very young age.
For me, my struggle with arthritis started when I was 22 months old. My grandpa noticed that I was walking a little funny and my mom took me in for tests, the final conclusion coming that I have JRA. At first it was just in my knees and ankles, but getting strep throat caused the arthritis to spread to the majority of my joints and as the years went on, I progressively became worse and worse.
As a kid, I was made fun of constantly. Kids don't understand what arthritis is, all the saw was a girl who walked with slight waddle, and as kids do, they pick on the weak ones. I was left out of activities because I could join in, I didn't have very many friends, and I normally kept to myself. I felt more mature then the kids my age, in fact to this day I still do. Going through something like this, having to go to doctor's constantly, being on medications, you grow up quickly. You look at the world a different way. Life as a kid wasn't as carefree and fun, because I had to always be thinking ahead, and I never knew how I was going to feel.
As I got into junior high, I started coming into my own, and the silly, goofy girl I was at home started coming out more, and I became more comfortable with who I was. Kids still teased me, but I had become so used to it that the words and the stares just rolled off my back. I made friends because people started to see me, and they took the time to understand what I was going through. In high school I did things I never thought I would be able to do, like marching band, and I learned that as long as I didn't put the focus on my arthritis, and I showed people who I really am, they would accept me. And they did.
As an adult, the disease has gotten worse. I have joint damage that is irreplaceable, and as of two years ago, my knees finally gave out on me and I am not longer able to walk. I still get the looks, the stares, even the comments. People see a young woman in a chair and don't stop to think what might be wrong, or even ask. They just assume I am mentally handicapped. But again, I let it run off my back. People always compliment me on my positive attiude, but the way I see it, this is just a way of life for me. I have so much more freedom now being in a chair, that I really don't miss walking. Would like be easier, of course, but sitting around feeling sorry for youself, well, that's just letting the disease win. It might have taken over parts of my body, but I will never let it take over my spirit. Its just who I am, its apart of me, but it isn't me. It just makes me unique.
Arthritis is something that people don't consider someone my age or younger ever having. Its always considered an old person's disease. And unfortunatly, many people don't realize just how life changing this disease really is, and how much damage it can do to a person's body. It is truly something that is under the radar, that people don't really think about, but it affects millions, and there are so many people who don't even realize they have it, or take the time to get on the right meds and treatments to help them. Left untreated, this disease will cripple you.
I write this blog today to not make you, the reader, feel bad for me, or pity me. I never want anyone to do that. I write this as a thank you for all my family and friends who have supported me throughout the years, who understand there are days when I just need to rest, and days when I feel the best I've felt in a long time. Who never make me feel different, but treat as part of the gang. I know its not easy having to help me use my ramp to get my chair in and out of the car, and I know it can definitely be a pain, but I appreciate it the assistance from the bottom of my heart. If any of you were in my position, I would be there in a heartbeat to help. I just pray that you never have to go through what I do.
For those that are unfamiliar with arthritis, Ryan posted a great information piece on her blog that I will share with you. Perhaps this will give you a little insight into what we and millions of Americans go through on a daily basis.
Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis (rue-ma-TOYD arth-write-tis) is a chronic disease, mainly characterized by inflammation of the lining, or synovium, of the joints. It can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progresses in three stages. The first stage is the swelling of the synovial lining, causing pain, warmth, stiffness, redness and swelling around the joint. Second is the rapid division and growth of cells, or pannus, which causes the synovium to thicken. In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the involved joint to lose its shape and alignment, more pain, and loss of movement.
Because it is a chronic disease, RA continues indefinitely and may not go away. Frequent flares in disease activity can occur. RA is a systemic disease, which means it can affect other organs in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA is critical if you want to continue living a productive lifestyle. Studies have shown that early aggressive treatment of RA can limit joint damage, which in turn limits loss of movement, decreased ability to work, higher medical costs and potential surgery.
RA affects 1 percent of the U.S. population or 2.1 million Americans. Currently, the cause of RA is unknown, although there are several theories. And while there is no cure, it is easier than ever to control RA through the use of new drugs, exercise, joint protection techniques and self-management techniques. While there is no good time to have rheumatoid arthritis, advancements in research and drug development mean that more people with RA are living happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis can start in any joint, but it most commonly begins in the smaller joints of the fingers, hands and wrists. Joint involvement is usually symmetrical, meaning that if a joint hurts on the left hand, the same joint will hurt on the right hand. In general, more joint erosion indicates more severe disease activity.
Other common physical symptoms include
-Fatigue
-Stiffness, particularly in the morning and when sitting for long periods of time. Typically, the longer the morning stiffness lasts, the more active your disease is.
-Weakness
-Flu-like symptoms, including a low-grade fever
-Pain associated with prolonged sitting
-The occurrence of flares of disease activity followed by remission or disease inactivity
-Rheumatoid nodules, or lumps of tissue under the skin, appear in about one-fifth of people with RA. Typically found on the elbows, they can indicate more severe disease activity.
-Muscle pain -Loss of appetite, depression, weight loss, anemia, cold and/or sweaty hands and feet
-Involvement of the glands around the eyes and mouth, causing decreased production of tears and saliva (Sjögren's syndrome)
-Advanced changes to look out for include damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments and bone, which causes deformity and instability in the joints. The damage can lead to limited range of motion, resulting in daily tasks (grasping a fork, combing hair, buttoning a shirt) becoming more difficult. You also may see skin ulcers and a general decline in health. People with severe RA are more susceptible to infection.
The effects of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person. In fact, there is some growing belief that RA isn't one disease, but it may be several different diseases that share commonalities.
For me, my struggle with arthritis started when I was 22 months old. My grandpa noticed that I was walking a little funny and my mom took me in for tests, the final conclusion coming that I have JRA. At first it was just in my knees and ankles, but getting strep throat caused the arthritis to spread to the majority of my joints and as the years went on, I progressively became worse and worse.
As a kid, I was made fun of constantly. Kids don't understand what arthritis is, all the saw was a girl who walked with slight waddle, and as kids do, they pick on the weak ones. I was left out of activities because I could join in, I didn't have very many friends, and I normally kept to myself. I felt more mature then the kids my age, in fact to this day I still do. Going through something like this, having to go to doctor's constantly, being on medications, you grow up quickly. You look at the world a different way. Life as a kid wasn't as carefree and fun, because I had to always be thinking ahead, and I never knew how I was going to feel.
As I got into junior high, I started coming into my own, and the silly, goofy girl I was at home started coming out more, and I became more comfortable with who I was. Kids still teased me, but I had become so used to it that the words and the stares just rolled off my back. I made friends because people started to see me, and they took the time to understand what I was going through. In high school I did things I never thought I would be able to do, like marching band, and I learned that as long as I didn't put the focus on my arthritis, and I showed people who I really am, they would accept me. And they did.
As an adult, the disease has gotten worse. I have joint damage that is irreplaceable, and as of two years ago, my knees finally gave out on me and I am not longer able to walk. I still get the looks, the stares, even the comments. People see a young woman in a chair and don't stop to think what might be wrong, or even ask. They just assume I am mentally handicapped. But again, I let it run off my back. People always compliment me on my positive attiude, but the way I see it, this is just a way of life for me. I have so much more freedom now being in a chair, that I really don't miss walking. Would like be easier, of course, but sitting around feeling sorry for youself, well, that's just letting the disease win. It might have taken over parts of my body, but I will never let it take over my spirit. Its just who I am, its apart of me, but it isn't me. It just makes me unique.
Arthritis is something that people don't consider someone my age or younger ever having. Its always considered an old person's disease. And unfortunatly, many people don't realize just how life changing this disease really is, and how much damage it can do to a person's body. It is truly something that is under the radar, that people don't really think about, but it affects millions, and there are so many people who don't even realize they have it, or take the time to get on the right meds and treatments to help them. Left untreated, this disease will cripple you.
I write this blog today to not make you, the reader, feel bad for me, or pity me. I never want anyone to do that. I write this as a thank you for all my family and friends who have supported me throughout the years, who understand there are days when I just need to rest, and days when I feel the best I've felt in a long time. Who never make me feel different, but treat as part of the gang. I know its not easy having to help me use my ramp to get my chair in and out of the car, and I know it can definitely be a pain, but I appreciate it the assistance from the bottom of my heart. If any of you were in my position, I would be there in a heartbeat to help. I just pray that you never have to go through what I do.
For those that are unfamiliar with arthritis, Ryan posted a great information piece on her blog that I will share with you. Perhaps this will give you a little insight into what we and millions of Americans go through on a daily basis.
Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis (rue-ma-TOYD arth-write-tis) is a chronic disease, mainly characterized by inflammation of the lining, or synovium, of the joints. It can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progresses in three stages. The first stage is the swelling of the synovial lining, causing pain, warmth, stiffness, redness and swelling around the joint. Second is the rapid division and growth of cells, or pannus, which causes the synovium to thicken. In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the involved joint to lose its shape and alignment, more pain, and loss of movement.
Because it is a chronic disease, RA continues indefinitely and may not go away. Frequent flares in disease activity can occur. RA is a systemic disease, which means it can affect other organs in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA is critical if you want to continue living a productive lifestyle. Studies have shown that early aggressive treatment of RA can limit joint damage, which in turn limits loss of movement, decreased ability to work, higher medical costs and potential surgery.
RA affects 1 percent of the U.S. population or 2.1 million Americans. Currently, the cause of RA is unknown, although there are several theories. And while there is no cure, it is easier than ever to control RA through the use of new drugs, exercise, joint protection techniques and self-management techniques. While there is no good time to have rheumatoid arthritis, advancements in research and drug development mean that more people with RA are living happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis can start in any joint, but it most commonly begins in the smaller joints of the fingers, hands and wrists. Joint involvement is usually symmetrical, meaning that if a joint hurts on the left hand, the same joint will hurt on the right hand. In general, more joint erosion indicates more severe disease activity.
Other common physical symptoms include
-Fatigue
-Stiffness, particularly in the morning and when sitting for long periods of time. Typically, the longer the morning stiffness lasts, the more active your disease is.
-Weakness
-Flu-like symptoms, including a low-grade fever
-Pain associated with prolonged sitting
-The occurrence of flares of disease activity followed by remission or disease inactivity
-Rheumatoid nodules, or lumps of tissue under the skin, appear in about one-fifth of people with RA. Typically found on the elbows, they can indicate more severe disease activity.
-Muscle pain -Loss of appetite, depression, weight loss, anemia, cold and/or sweaty hands and feet
-Involvement of the glands around the eyes and mouth, causing decreased production of tears and saliva (Sjögren's syndrome)
-Advanced changes to look out for include damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments and bone, which causes deformity and instability in the joints. The damage can lead to limited range of motion, resulting in daily tasks (grasping a fork, combing hair, buttoning a shirt) becoming more difficult. You also may see skin ulcers and a general decline in health. People with severe RA are more susceptible to infection.
The effects of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person. In fact, there is some growing belief that RA isn't one disease, but it may be several different diseases that share commonalities.
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