I'll try anything once... Twice if I Like it! Who knows it might work!! Even if it doesn't... its cute!! Love, Carrie
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
I don't know if this actually came from Geo. Carlin but that doesn't matter! Its good no matter Who wrote it! Enjoy!! Love, Carrie
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
This is great! Send this on again, I did!
(Absolutely Brilliant)
IF YOU DON'T READ THIS TO THE VERY END, YOU HAVE LOST A DAY IN YOUR LIFE. AND WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED, DO AS I AM DOING AND SEND IT ON.
George Carlin's Views on Aging
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions.
"How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five! That's the key.
You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.
"How old are you?" "I'm gonna be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life . . . you become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony . . . YOU BECOME 21. YES SSS!!!
But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're Just a sour-dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50
and your dreams are gone.
But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!
So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!
You get into your 80s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REAC H bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; "I Was JUST 92."
Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay "them "
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And! the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets,keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable,improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9 Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
And if you don't send this to at least 8 people - who cares? But do share this with someone. We all need to live life to its fullest each day!!
Yes I just got home from the doctor! it was just a bandage change and checkup... The doc thinks I'm doing sooooooooooooo gooooooooooooooood that we will be doing the final surgery next Monday!!! That's at Least 2 weeks Earlier than he thought we would do!! 2 WEEKS!! I am sooooo happy about this! It doesn't look good yet but he has to do alot of Trimming!! And I mean ALOT!!!! Its Really Weird to be able to SEE thru the top of my nose... let me tell you! But that's where the Trimming will be. It will be ok... God Told me so!
I can see this week so I will go down to the local hair salon and get my hair washed. Its been 2 weeks since they told me Not to do it. I asked them today if I could Have it done... its driving me crazy! You cannot Imagine how much it itches!!!!
I can see this week so i will be able to read and catch up on all the goings on. It will take me alittle while... I Only have alittle over 500 emails to read so expect answers to all your questions soon!
Well if I'm gonna do it I better get to it!!! Love you all, Carrie
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
Carrie,
Don't you go back again tomorrow for another check-up? I hope you have been
doing lots of resting and that everything is healing real well.
Dorothy
God said yes......what I didn't really get until this morning is that He wants
me to do it for charity. So, I will be crochetng a lot more, but it will be for
charity. I like being able to say that I 'work' for God.....as you all do too.
If I crochet and felt the hats, they are very very warm and moisture resistant,
what great hats for cold weather. We get cold and wet here, but not cold enough
to snow, but the dampness can go right through you! If anyone would like to
contribute, I could use 100% wool yarn, not superwash.
thanks
Christy
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
Hi Eric,
I'm glad you are doing a bit better anyways. Sorry it has been so hard
for you with the infection and all. I hope the pain decreases quickly
for you. It's miserable being in that kind of pain. I hope you
continue to be fever free and will be able to have the stim. put back
in, if that's what you are shooting for. I'll say a prayer for you to
heal quickly and feel better soon.
All my best,
Ruth
Today I went for my first visit with the neurosurgeon who will do my spinal
cord stimulator surgery (my Physical Medicine and Rehab doc did the trial run
of the SCS). We arrived at the office at 9:00 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. appointment,
and the doctor came in my exam room around 11:20 a.m. He was delayed due to
emergency surgery. Once he entered the room, the frustrations from waiting
disappeared. First he took my history and of note were:
#1-He believes I had cauda equina syndrome along with the herniated disc I
had back in 1993 that started all this, based on my description of the symptoms
as well as the timetable for surgery and recovery.
Definition of cauda equina syndrome:
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) occurs when the nerve roots of the cauda equina
are compressed and disrupt motor and sensory function to the lower extremities
and bladder. Patients with this syndrome are often admitted to the hospital as
a medical emergency. CES can lead to incontinence and even permanent
paralysis.
The collection of nerves at the end of the spinal cord is known as the cauda
equina, due to its resemblance to a horse's tail. The spinal cord ends at the
upper portion of the lumbar (lower back) spine. The individual nerve roots at
the end of the spinal cord that provide motor and sensory function to the legs
and the bladder continue along in the spinal canal. The cauda equina is the
continuation of these nerve roots in the lumbar region. These nerves send and
receive messages to and from the lower limbs and pelvic organs.
#2-He is concerned with my history of frequent infections and especially my
recent abscess. Of special note are the recurrent proteus bacterial infections.
He plans to give me stronger IV antibiotics and oral antibiotics because of
this. He said the risk of infection is the biggest risk we will face with this
SCS surgery.
#3-He said the glucose intolerance also makes me at a higher risk for
infection.
#4-He plans to keep me overnight since I'm at a higher risk for
complications. This will allow him to keep me on IV antibiotics longer. Also
they can
monitor my lungs because he said I might not breath as deeply due to the pain
and
this could cause my lungs to have a problem. Also, since I have restrictive
lung disease, even though it is doing well now, he said the trauma of the
surgery
might cause it to flare. This is a relief because many SCS patients have the
surgery as an OUTPATIENT!
And here is the good news:
He will be using glue to close my incisions rather than sutures, so I will
get to take showers after two days rather than two weeks. How cool is that?! Not
only will I feel clean, but the warm showers will feel good if I'm stiff and
sore from the surgery. Also, I'm hoping this means I won't need to wear
dressings as long as I would have had to do with stitches (if at all). If I can
avoid tape, my skin will thank me.
I will have about a 2-3 inch incision around my bra-strap line-at the T-11
location-where they will do a laminotomy to get into the epidural area, and then
they will install the electrical lead wire. Since they are doing a
laminotomy, this will be much like back surgery. During a discectomy, they also
do a
laminotomy to gain access to the area.
A laminotomy means they remove a piece of the lamina (the bony part of the
spine).
They will make a 3-4 inch incision in my right abdomen, below my waistband,
where they will install the device that contains the battery. There will be a
special tubing between the lead wire and the pocket for the battery, going from
the front side to the middle of the back.
One last bit of news: the surgery has been rescheduled for September 12th. I
was going to have it on September 14th but the doctor has a craniotomy
scheduled for all day that day. Nice to know my doctor does such technical
surgeries.
He does quite a bit of these SCS surgeries. The worst part is that the
surgery isn't until 3:00 p.m., or later if he gets delayed like today.
He is also ordering an AFO (ankle foot orthotic) for my left leg, to help
with my foot drop (my foot sometimes drags and then I stumble). He said I can't
afford to be jarred or to fall once I have the SCC in place. Any sudden movement
could damage the equipment or dislocate the lead wire. I don't have to wear
the AFO all the time, but he recommends it any time I will be up on my feet
for long, or when I notice more muscle fatigue. He also recommended good support
shoes, or even high top athletic shoes.
Kathy W. in KY
read my blog at: http://imlivingoutloud.blogspot.com/
I would like to believe it's because God knows we can handle it.
Love in Christ,
Jayne
Thank you Debbie for this! i will be Proud to send it on!! Love, Carrie
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
Since I join a little over a month ago I had my lead and stimulator
implanted on july 19. It was in 3 weeks to the day when had to have it
removed due to straph infection. I just returned from the surgeon
office to haave the sutures removed. He says that if I reamin fever
free for 4 weeks he will place it back in except this time he will use
precutaniuos leads instead of the paddle leads due to the spinal scar
tissue wil not allow for futher paddle leads.I been in alot of pain
just as I was getting over the pain of the first surgery then the same
scars were reopened and scraped clean I remained in the hospital for 3
days. I did get good relief from the stimulator that the only reason I
consider trying it again. just thought I would update everyone.
okay
here's my bible study question for the week....
(..this is spirit led, not from a book. I have struggled with this questions
mightily lately....and would like participants to show verses the are pertinent
to their answers)
here it is..THE question for those who are chronically or terminally ill....
WHY hasn't God healed us?
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
This is an old one worth repeating!
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
One day, a man went to visit a church.
He got there early, parked his car, and got out.
Another car pulled up and the driver got
out and said,"I always park there!
You took my place!" The visitor went inside for
Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down.
A young lady from the church
approached him and stated,
"That's my seat! You took my place!"
The visitor was somewhat distressed
by this rude welcome, but said nothing.
After Sunday School, the visitor went
into the sanctuary and sat down.
Another member walked up to him and said,
"That's where I always sit! You took my place!"
The visitor was even more troubled by this
treatment, but still He said nothing.
Later as the congregation was praying
for Christ to dwell among them,
the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change.
Horrible scars became visible on
his hands and on his sandaled feet.
Someone from the congregation
noticed him and called out, "What happened to you?"
The visitor replied, as his hat
became a crown of thorns, and a tear fell from his eye,
"I took your place."
When you receive this, say a prayer.
That's all you have to do.
There is nothing attached.
This is powerful.
Get the world to start thinking of...
"Who took our place".
Christy,
I realize that this is not what you wanted. But you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. The Enemy is working so hard these days. I agree wholeheartedly in arming up for the battle and it is going down in our very living rooms. So that is what I also pray for, among other stuff.
Pax,
In JMJ
Angelique
I had a dorsal implant at C5 some 8 or more years ago and it was
totally innefective for pain management. Even worse after having the
stimulator removed and the electrode still in place, it has made my
right leg worse in terms of mobility.
Logically it should not be surprising if you consider putting a metal
block inside the spinal chord can only interupt normal nerve pathaways!
Although I have to take some responsibility when originally the
neurologist warned me the success rate was only 50% !
yours
Martin
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
too funny!!!!!!!!
Note: forwarded message attached.
Hi Christy. Thanks for introducing yourself. I used to live in Fresno CA and
then San Jose, CA but now we are back in Baton Rouge, LA. Thanks for making
contact. God Bless. Bye Sharon
Hi Kathy,\
Sorry to hear that this happened. I'm very surprised that they told
you that they would be able to do it that soon after the trial. Yes
physically we can but usually the surgeons are booked weeks to
months in advance. I had to wait almost 2 months to get mine. It
sounds like they really didn't listen to what you were asking them.
That stinks that you had the EKG done and all. At least you didn't
have the blood work and everything else done. I hope this doesn't
get you to down. I know it's a long time to wait. It bothered me to
wait for so long because like you I wanted to "just get it over
with". Maybe in all of this there is a reason that it got
posponed. Who knows? I hope everything else goes smoothly for you
after this.
Take care and keep your chin up,
Ruth
Now... ain't That the truth!!!!
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
Reference: Marriage
For all those men who say,
"Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free."
[INLINE]
Here's an update for you.....
Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage.
Why?
Because women realize its not worth buying an entire Pig,....
Just to get a little sausage.
[INLINE]
[INLINE]
Bye Now
Too Good to leave out!!!
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
Subject: BLESSINGS FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOUR HOUSE
A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her class to look at
TV commercials and see if they could use them in some way to communicate
ideas about God.
Here are some of the results: scroll down.
God is like..
BAYER ASPIRIN
He works miracles.
God is like...
a FORD
He's got a better idea.
God is like...
COKE
He's the real thing.
God is like...
HALLMARK CARDS
He cares enough to send His very best.
God is like...
TIDE
He gets the stains out that others leave behind.
God is like...
GENERAL ELECTRIC
He brings good things to life.
God is like...
SEARS
He has everything.
God is like...
ALKA-SELTZER
Try him, you'll like Him.
God is like...
SCOTCH TAPE
You can't see him, but you know He's there.
God is like...
DELTA
He's ready when you are.
God is like...
ALLSTATE
You're in good hands with Him.
God is like...
VO-5 Hair Spray
He holds through all kinds of weather.
God is like...
DIAL SOAP
Aren't you glad you have Him? Don't you wish everybody did?
God is like...
the U.S. POST OFFICE
Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His
appointed destination.
Hi ladies
It helps me so much to know that you are here and we are all in this together,
but often times the relationship doesn't progress much beyond a name on the
screen. Although I enjoy chatting with you, the times differences can really be
a problem, especially now that my husband is working a day shift and is here at
night (that's when I did my 'chatting').
I used to have over 50 penpals and I loved it! Over the years, they just kinda
fell away....except one. Andthen when I got on-line we became 'email pals' and
now we don't keep in contact much. :-(
I would like snail mail pals from among you! Anyone who is interested, can
write directly to me and I will answer. If you wish, you may also post a few
interests and your address and such.
I'm 33, 3 kids aged (8,9,10) The youngest two are boys that we have just adopted
and they have post-traumatic stress disorder as well as ADHD. We homeschool all
3.
I have fibromyalgia and am disabled. I like to crochet, and will start doing so
almost exclusively for charity. I love long chatty letters and write the same! I
write back within a week. I also like to include little 'tradeables' in most
letters......FBs, stickers, bookmarks...anything that fits in an envelope! I
will save the rest of my intro for letters! Looking forward to meeting you!
Christy Britain
3604 Edgewood Road
Eureka, CA 95501
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
When I went to the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Doctor regarding the
SCS, he said that he would put in the trial version, and then refer me to a
neurosurgeon for the permanent version to be implanted. We asked about the
timing of all this because we needed to plan for our busy Fall schedule. He told
me
that normally the "big" surgery is 2-3 weeks after the trial. So we planned
accordingly (meals, help, postponement of big events on the schedule until
later in the year, etc). His office also told me the surgery usually is
scheduled
in that time period, and even the Medtronics nurse, who has done this for 17
years and worked with these doctors-said the same thing.
Well, my trial lead was taken out on August 1st, and I called the same day to
make the appointment with the neurosurgeon. Their first available, at any of
their 5 locations, was August 18th. You can imagine my frustration, knowing
the surgery would be even later. Well, it gets worse! They call back a few days
later and ask if I could go to a different location to see the surgeon, but on
the same day. It is further away. But, because I want this over with, I said
"SURE." They call today to confirm my appointment for the 18th, but then, just
2 hours later, they call back to say the surgeon can't see me until
September!
I explain my frustrations (nicely-I know the receptionist can't help it). I
told her what the PM&R office had led me to believe about surgery schedule.
Also, I had already had my pre-surgery physical exam and EKG, and now they might
need to do it over again (they had ordered a chest x-ray and labwork, but I
had waited to do that-now I will wait even longer!).
So, now my neuro appointment is August 24th and because she felt sorry for my
situation, she went ahead and scheduled my surgery even though the doc hasn't
seen me yet, for September 14th. This is a full month later than when we had
expected it to be scheduled. She did say she will call back if there are any
cancellations.
Just wanted to share my latest news. I'll keep you posted!
Kathy W. in KY
hi everyone!
I have been battling such spiritual warfare in my home tha past three
weeks...and in praying for guidance I felt God tell me that I needed to focus on
others and their sorrows and tough times. I want to be obedient and indeed, it
really feels more 'natural'....I know I will still have the energy to get my
house in order (spiritually speaking, not practically)
So, please send your prayer requests to me or to the list....intervening prayer
can be so powerful! And is there anything else any of you need? (We all need
prayer!) Can I pray for a specific blessing, or is there anything practical you
need? Perhaps I could do more than pray about it. Feel free to email me
privately if you so desire. I've got my notebook ready...
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
I never heard this one before! Its great!
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
[INLINE]
The Five Finger Prayer
[INLINE]
This is so neat. I had never heard this before...This is beautiful - and it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.
1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."
2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.
4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprisi!ng to ma ny is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your pray ers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
5. And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.
If you decide to send this to a friend, you might brighten someone's day! Pass this on to someone special... I did.
http://www.incredimail.com/index.asp?id=409&lang=9
Amy
Topamax and neurontin are both anti-seizure drugs. They work on the
same system in the body. Topamax like neurontin works on nerve
pain. Topamax and Neurontin do have some different medicines in them
so just because you had a bad reaction to neurontin doesn't mean the
same thing will happen with the topamax. I know people who love
topamax and I know other people who like neurontin. I would say if
it is something you are interested in trying make you increase you
dose very slowly. I went up I think it was by 50mg a week. When you
took the neurontin did you increase you dose slowly or did you just
start on a higher dose, If you have anymore questions let me know
I'm here.
Jaci
THE WILL OF GOD
(Received from Steve Hall - Author Unknown)
The will of God will never take you,
Where the Grace of God cannot keep you,
Where the Arms of God cannot support you,
Where the Riches of God cannot supply your needs,
Where the Power of God cannot endow you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the Spirit of God cannot work through you,
Where the Wisdom of God cannot teach you,
Where the Army of God cannot protect you,
Where the Hands of God cannot mold you.
The Will of God will never take you,
Where the Love of God cannot enfold you,
Where the Mercies of God cannot sustain you,
Where the Peace of God cannot calm your fears,
Where the Authority of God cannot overrule for you.
The will of God will never take you,
Where the Comfort of God cannot dry your tears,
Where the Word of God cannot feed you,
Where the Miracles of God cannot be done for you,
Where the Omnipresence of God cannot find you.
http://www.emazing.com/cgi-bin/mtaf.cgi?date=10-02-2000&list_id=positiveliving&b\
rand=emazing
http://service.bfast.com/bfast/click?bfmid=2181&sourceid=32093721&bfpid=06096052\
16&bfmtype=book
http://www.allstarcharity.com/Scripts/ListingInfo.asp?LotNo=20517375&SiteCatNo=1\
34874
=====
Cliff and Joanne Eva \0/\0/\0/ <
"Preach the gospel at all times - If necessary use words." -St. Francis of
Assissi
Website: http://www.heartwarmers4u.com/members?christiangirl
Click here: The Snowdog - animated Flash ecard by Jacquie Lawson
be sure to turn your volume up...
[INLINE] , [INLINE] [INLINE] ,& [INLINE] [INLINE] ,
Lynn
JC
I hope you are feeling a bit better by now. It is hard for the first
3 days or so. I had mine place on June 27 and I am doing much better
now. I'm sorry you had such a hard time at the hospital, but glad
you don't remember it :)
Hey Guys - My unit is finally starting to really work!!! I don't
notice the tingling any more unless I lean back or turn it up. I
hardly ever even turn it up or down any more. My stomach/side pain
is lessening too. No news on the small bowel series to see if there
is something wrong there or not. Hopefully it is just from the gall
bladder surgery and maybe adhesions or something. The scs still
agravates that site but not as much as before. I still can't turn it
up enough to get to the pain in my back but it is helping my legs
some. So that's good. I hope, with time, I will be able to get it
to the low back pain.
Hope everyone is doing well. Take care.
Ruth
Dear C
perhaps we should look into a head donor clinic. See,
I, like Mark Lowry, have a huge head -- so perhaps you
could take part of mine.
I love hats but certain ones I must forget about as if
I wear them I get a headache ...
lic
jo
=====
Cliff and Joanne Eva \0/\0/\0/ <
"Preach the gospel at all times - If necessary use words." -St. Francis of
Assissi
Website: http://www.heartwarmers4u.com/members?christiangirl
Hey every body, it's Amy. I was just wondering what Topomax is and how it
helps. I was on Neurontin for a little while. I had a real bad reaction to
it. After about two weeks, I couldn't figure out how to do allot of very
simple things. Get from one room to the other, how to open my car door,
where I was suppose to be going, eventually, my own name, so the weaned me
off. We used morphine MSIR, oxyconton,Soma, Lortab, vicodin, and so on. Very
interested about this topomax, could someone please advise?
Amy
God gave me the okay to go into the hat business! I have wanted to do this
for a couple of years now, but He told me to wait. I was going to actually go
into business with a friend, but I realized with God telling me 'no' it would
not be a good idea to jeopardize her chances, and in fact, she has done fairly
well. So, I am (doing some designing),crocheting, felting, handshaping and
decorating (in some cases?) wool or wool/mohair hats. Now, I don't know if this
means He is going to deny my SSI again, or if if this is just a 'for fun' thing
for me to do. But, I am excited. I plan to make each hat a one of a kind
creation and give it a name. I will also be doing hat pins, and hat bands to
decorate the hats with (or to sell seperately? I don't know all the particulars
yet....)
Now, to find places to sell them that are not going to charge me so much of a
consignment fee that I can't afford to do it. (Which reminds me...Dina!?!?!??!
I saw your chenille baby hats in the new Baby Garden store in Eureka! They are
darling!!) AND, that my friend doesn't already sell in. She proably wouldn't
care, and in fact we may approach some stores together...our hats (even when
following the same pattern) come out different sizes because we differ in our
felting processing times and shaping methods...and we have completely different
styles and color choices.....she goes for the natural shades of color and I go
for COLOR!!!!!! (well, I do have black, and a grey/brown tweed) but, burgundy,
green, PINK!!!!!! Lots of shades of PINK!!!! and I plan to add roses and lace
headbands and jeweled hat pins....... ooooohhhhhh......this is gonna be fun!!!!!
I only wish I looked good in hats..I've got a tiny little pin head on top of a
very round short body (I make Pooh bear look skinny!!! I make Bob the Tomato
look svelte!!!) and the hats cover my WHOLE head!!! This happens with store
bought hats too...but of course, being a PROFESSIONAL now....I fixed that
problem....I kept my first hat....and it's pink!)
Here is another difficulty....there is only one store in Eureka that I can buy
the yarn I need at and it is rather pricey.....($6.00 for 3 oz in worsted
weight...ouch!) and she is discontinuing that yarn and bringing in a 'higher
quality' (as if she didn't have enough 'higher quality' stuff at $9.00 for 3 oz)
so, my costs are going up and I haven't even begun to TRY to sell yet....does
this mean He wants me to open a wholesale account? Then I need a name, and a
license number.....and there goes my SSI..... I kind of want a name
anyway......want to help me with that? :-)I'd like somehting that conveyed that
this is a Christian business....that God is my partner. Or something
biblical...
send me your suggestions!!! please! HEY...how about a contest? Winner gets a
free hat of their choice!!!
Just in time for winter! (felting makes them moisture resistant and they are
ever so toasty!!!)
And then there is my writing to discuss and pray about.... I am better at
writing murder mysteries than devotionals and I want to do both. I haven't
heard Him tell me 'no' to the murder mysteries..but I can't help thinking aobut
the verse that tells us to look on things which are good......I can't reconcile
a way that murder mysteries are good...except that bad guy always get caught. I
could make my heroine a Christian....( I just read one where the detective is
Mormon.....)
but I really do better at short stories....hmmmmm, I need more prayer on this
one I guess. Anyone have a word of knowledge for me???? (here's hoping....)
I thought He wanted me to write devotionals for chronic and terminally
ill.....but I am having a very tough time with that... Well, at least we got
the hat business thing settled...YEAH!!!! (guess where I got my anser? It hit
while reading something about the Proverbs 31 woman.....she made soemthing and
sold it..
I wan't even thinking about hats anymore)
well, Now I am SURE I have babbled on enough....except to say that I do miss
chatting with you at night...those of you whom I used to chat with...but, with
Hubby at home at nights...he likes my attention, even if it just sitting in the
same room crocheting while he watches sports ( I do watch if it is hockey or
football..Go Dolphins!!! Go Sharks!!!)
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
[INLINE]
Rescuing Hug
INSTANTLY, WHEN YOU RECEIVE THIS PAGE,
YOU MUST SEND IT TO AT LEAST 5 PEOPLE,
INCLUDING THE PERSON WHO SENT IT TO YOU!!!
[INLINE]
*Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**H ug**Hug*
*Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug*
*Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug*
*Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug* *Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug**Hug*
[INLINE] ?±
You have just been hugged!
a Hug
It can mean so much, and many things at the same time.
It can be a sign of love, friendship, support, caring, comfort or anything.
So here you go. All I can say it will do is brighten someone's day.
I mean, we all need a hug once in a while.
So send this on if you'd like, to anyone who may need a hug,
send it back to whoever sent it to you,
Goodness knows, we could all REALLY use a hug sometimes.
Soooo .. enjoy your hug . . . and pass one on to someone else
especially, someone that really needs one! Thanks
God Bless you, your family, & your friends!!!
don't tell god how big the storm is, tell the storm how big god is.
that was wonderful, it certainly blessed me! I will try to remember to repeat
that to myself....
hello everyone....sure is quiet. I really had planned to get back to a bible
study routine, but both Emily and I have bronchitis (she's 10) Fortunately, she
did not become as ill as I did and she only had a slight fever for a day or so,
while mine finally broke last night after severazl days. The infection was in
my sinuses, my throat and in my lungs, and I'm still coughing up the green oogy
stuff. Emily just has a deep, wet cough left. She doesn't cough hard enough to
get it up....so, we're back to robitussin for her. I did loose my voice, which
is proabably a blessing for my husband as I have never been one to 'suffer in
silence'. We have a family motto.....'if mama ain't happy, ain't NObody happy!'
:-)
Did I tell you our adoption was final on Sept. 18th? We went to court and
everything..very cool. But, and we expected this, the boys have sorta gone
backwards. I think Rob and I have decided to postpone further attachment
therapy until he is off of his 10 hour shifts. It is just too difficult for me
to drive twice a week, and then do the actually work in the office by myself.
We also need to start occupational therapy with both of them soon too. The OT
is nice, but it will be great when he goes back to 8 hour shifts. I'd rather
have him than the money, for sure. (heheheheheee, once a valley girl, always a
valley girl! Nooooooo!!! :-) )
well, that's it for now I guess......back to bed for me (cough, hack,
wheeze...snort, sniffle)
--- ThankYouJesusforThornsOnMyRoses@egroups.com
==
agape,
Christy
Proverbs 31:13 She seeketh wool and flax and worketh willingly with her hands.
AIM user name: crochetin4Christ
MSN user name: ouchiemama
http://www.egroups.com/group/ThankYouJesusforThornsonMyRoses (elist for
Christian women living with chronic pain and illness
http://www.geocities.com/christybritain/
(Christian pages(God's promises, creation vs. evolution, Corrie ten Boom tribute
page, shooting down the big bang theory....and more) recipes, free crochet
patterns, mystery page, Sherlock Holmes page, classic movie page, aromatherapy
'recipe' page, craft ideas, FMS page, homeschooling page and more)
http://www.geocities.com/britainchristianacademy/indexofstudies.html (thematic
on-line unit studies with off-line activites and games grades 2-?)
websites are continual works in progress
--
May The Lord Smile Upon You Today!! `;~)
The reason dogs have so many friends is because they wag their tails instead of their tongues.
The story of my life. (LOL) Angelique
S H A K E I T O F F A N D S T E P U P
A parable is told of a farmer who owned an old mule. The mule fell
into the
farmer's well. The farmer heard the mule 'braying' - or - whatever
mules do
when they fall into wells. After carefully assessing the situation,
the
farmer sympathized with the mule, but decided that neither the mule
nor the
well was worth the trouble of saving.
Instead, he called his neighbors together and told them what had
happened
and enlisted them to help haul dirt to BURY the old mule in the well
and put
him out of his misery.
Initially, the old mule was hysterical! But as the farmer and his
neighbors
continued shoveling and the dirt hit his back . . . a thought struck
him. It
suddenly dawned on him that every time a shovel load of dirt landed
on
his
back . . . HE SHOULD SHAKE IT OFF AND STEP UP!
This he did, blow after blow. "Shake it off and step up . . . shake
it
off
and step up . . . shake it off and step up!" he repeated to encourage
himself. No matter how painful the blows, or distressing the situation
seemed the old mule fought "panic" and just kept right on SHAKING IT
OFF AND
STEPPING UP!
You're right! It wasn't long before the old mule, battered and
exhausted, STEPPED TRIUMPHANTLY OVER THE WALL OF THAT WELL! What
seemed like
it would bury him, actually blessed him . . . all because of the
manner in
which he handled his adversity.
THAT'S LIFE! If we face our problems and respond to them positively,
and
refuse to give in to panic, bitterness, or self-pity . . . THE
ADVERSITIES
THAT COME ALONG TO BURY US USUALLY HAVE WITHIN THEM THE POTENTIAL TO
BENEFIT
AND BLESS US!
We can remember that FORGIVENESS - FAITH - PRAYER - PRAISE and HOPE .
all are excellent ways to "SHAKE IT OFF AND STEP UP" out of the wells
in which
we find ourselves!
Dori
There is no need to apologize, I hope that you are feeling better.
Hugs Pat CA
Kathy,
As far as I'm concerned you have no reason to say you are sorry. I
want to hear how you are doing as I'm sure others do too.
I'm glad you got a good doc to see you and that she treated you well.
I hope all goes well for you now.
About the methatrexate. You do know that that causes your immune
system to be depressed don't you? That means that you have to be
extra, extra careful about any kind of procedure that you have done
and you would probably need double the length of time to take a
antibiotic for your system to be clear of an infection or the threat
of one. My girlfriend was on that for a long time for lupus and she
had to be very careful. Any kind of immunosuppresant does the same
thing. My husband is on one now and the same thing happens to him.
He has to be on the medicine twice as long as normal.
Good luck girl and my prayers and good thoughts are with you. Keep
us up to date.
Ruth
Hi Lynda
I have been where you are at more than once. I usually have to find something that I sort of have to latch onto that will bring me up. It maybe doing something or having one of the Grandchildren for a couple of days. You are in my thoughts.
Hugs Pat CA
THIS IS AWESOME!
It was an unusually cold day for the month of May. Spring had arrived and
everything was alive with color. But a cold front from the North had
brought winter's chill back to Indiana. I sat with two friends in the
picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town
square. The food and the company were both especially good that day.
As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There,
walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly
goods on his back. He was carrying a well-worn sign that read, "I will work
for food." My heart sank. I brought him to the attention of my friends and
noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads
moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief.
We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished
our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set
out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat
halfheartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing
him again would call for some response. I drove through town and saw
nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.
Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: "Don't go back to
the office until you've at least driven once more around the square." And
so, with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square's
third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the storefront
church, going through his sack. I stopped and looked, feeling compelled to
speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the
corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in,
got out and approached the town's newest visitor.
"Looking for the pastor?" I asked.
"Not really," he replied, "just resting."
"Have you eaten today?"
"Oh, I ate something early this morning."
"Would you like to have lunch with me?"
"Do you have some work I could do for you?"
"No work," I replied. "I commute here to work from the city, but I would
like to take you to lunch."
"Sure," he replied with a smile.
As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. "Where you
headed?"
"St. Louis."
"Where you from?"
"Oh, all over; mostly Florida."
"How long you been walking?"
Page 2
"Fourteen years," came the reply.
I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same
restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his
38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and
articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright
red T-shirt that said, "Jesus Is The Never Ending Story."
Then Daniel's story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life.
He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years
earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach
in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large
tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought. He was hired, but the tent
would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services, he
saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God.
"Nothing's been the same since," he said, "I felt the Lord telling me to
keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now."
"Ever think of stopping?" I asked.
"Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me. But God has
given me this calling. I give out Bibles. That's what's in my sack. I
work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads." I
sat amazed.
My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way
by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked:
"What's it like?"
"What?"
"To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your
sign?"
"Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments.
Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that
certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to
realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of
other folks like me."
My concept was changing, too. We finished our dessert and gathered his
things. Just outside the door, he paused. He turned to me and said, "Come
ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For
when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a
stranger and you took me in." I felt as if we were on holy ground. "Could
you use another Bible?" I asked. He said he preferred a certain
translation.
It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite.
"I've read through it 14 times," he said. "I'm not sure we've got one of
those, but let's stop by our church and see." I was able to find my new
friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful. "Where you
headed from here?"
"Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon."
"Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?"
Page 3
"No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star
right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next." He smiled, and
the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him
back to the town square where we'd met two hours earlier, and as we drove,
it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things.
"Would you sign my autograph book?" he asked. "I like to keep messages from
folks I meet." I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his
calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left
him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, "I know the plans I have for
you," declared the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to
give you a future and a hope."
"Thanks, man," he said. "I know we just met and we're really just strangers,
but I love you."
"I know," I said, "I love you, too."
"The Lord is good."
"Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?" I asked.
"A long time," he replied. And so on the busy street corner in the
drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I
had been changed. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile
and said, "See you in the New Jerusalem."
"I'll be there!" was my reply.
He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his
bed roll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, "When you see
something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?"
"You bet," I shouted back, "God bless."
"God bless." And that was the last I saw of him.
Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front
had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I
sat back and reached for the emergency brake, I saw them....a pair of
well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I
picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay
warm that night without them. I remembered his words: "If you see something
that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?"
Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world
and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with
my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. "See you in the New
Jerusalem," he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will....
If this story touched you, PLEASE forward it to a friend!
"PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW"
Love,
Peace,
and God's Blessings
I had my stim implant surgery today. I just got home about a hour ago. I dont
remember much at all of the procedure, getting off the table, or telling my doc
he the placement was good or not. My rep from advanced bionics asked me he I
remembered freaking out, hyperventilating. Which, I dont. One of the OR nurses
had to run and find a paper bag for me to breathe into. I have horrible anxiety
and panic attacks, and I was jittery before surgery but I would have never
guessed that I would have freaked out like I did. So far I think the placement
of the leads is better than the stim I had placed in Feb. The pain from the
incisions are pretty horrible pain wise, but my normal everyday pain isnt so
bad. My stim has been on since I left the hospital. The ON-Q bomb is working,
but it doesnt feel like it is. Im sure by sunday Ill be feeling a lot better. I
thought Id let you all know how today went. So far so good. Thank You All So
Much For The Line Words, Prayers And Positive
Thoughts. JC
[Jacid@...] wrote:
Kathy
I have a different condition than you, I have Reflex Sympathetic
Dystrophy. I'm not sure if you have any idea what it is, anyway with
my rsd comes neuropathy. I was put on neurontin for the horrible,
intense burning pain. I was 140 pounds and 5' 9" when I started it
and increased to almost 190 pounds. I was taking 900mg three times a
day. It didn't matter what I ate or did I gained weight. It was
incredibly frustrating. My doctor switched me to topamax. I'm not
sure if you or anyone here has heard of it but it is a newer drug and
in the same class as neurontin however it doesn't have the same side
effects as neurontin (i.e. weight gain). For a good percentage of
people the one side effect it does have is that it causes weight
loss. If you have gained weight from other medicines it allows you
to loose that excess weight. In my case I lost 50 pounds in maybe 6
or 7 months. I was loosing weight so quick I couldn't keep up with
it, as soon as I bought new clothes they were to big on me.
Obviously everyone will not react the same it may take you longer or
shorter or you may not loose any weight at all but I sure like it a
lot better that neurontin. My doctor actually just told me that
there is a study going on now about topamax and weight loss.
I don't have any tinging with my neuropathy but I can say that I
have 3 stimulators two peripheral and one spinal and I have gotten
used to all of them. I don't notice the "tingling sensation' anymore
unless I turn the stimulator up and then after a few hours or so I'm
used to it again. In fact to be honest my spinal cord stimulator is
one of the rechargeable ones and there have been a few times when it
has turned off and I didn't even realize it. I am so used to the
feeling that there was no difference when it turned off. I would sit
there wondering why my pain suddenly got worse and finally realized I
forgot to charge.
I hope I was some help to you. Good luck.
Jaci
Subject: Jesus, Satan, and Computers
Jesus and Satan were having an ongoing argument about
who was better on his computer. They had been going at
it for days, and God was tired of hearing all of the
bickering. Finally God said, "Cool it. I am going to
set up a test that will run two hours and I will judge
who does the better job."
So down Satan and Jesus sat at the keyboards and typed
away.
They moused.
They did spreadsheets.
They wrote reports.
They sent faxes.
They opened e-mail.
They sent out e-mail... with attachments.
They downloaded.
They did some genealogy reports.
They made cards.
They did every known job.
About ten minutes before their time was up, lightning
flashed across the sky, thunder rolled, the rain
poured, and, of course, the electricity went off.
Satan stared at his blank screen and screamed every
curse word known in the underworld. Jesus just sighed.
The electricity finally flickered back on, and each
of them rebooted their computers. Satan started
searching frantically, screaming "It's gone!"
Meanwhile, Jesus quietly started printing out all of
his files from the past two hours. Satan observed
this and became very irate: "Wait! He must have
cheated. How did he do that?"
God shrugged and said, "Jesus saves."
This is so good! I needed to be reminded of God's holding pattern!
Hugs,
Lea
The reason dogs have so many friends is because they wag their tails instead of their tongues.
Hi Dennis,
I'm sure there are people here who are knowledgeable about pumps, but so you
Many times God will allow a painful situation or a
painful circumstance in our life to "swallow us up."
This season in our spiritual growth is a holding
pattern. We can't move to the left or the right. All
we can do is sit, like Jonah sat in the belly of that
great fish, so God can have our undivided attention
and speak to us.
God put Jonah in a holding pattern because He needed
to speak to his heart. Jonah was all alone. There
were no friends to call, no colleagues to drop by, no
books to read, no food to eat, no interferences, and
no interruptions. He had plenty of time to sit, think,
meditate, and pray.
When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult
situation, God can talk to us. When He has our
undivided attention, He can show us things about
ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen.
A Few Of God's Holding Patterns:
1. When you are sick in your physical body and you
have
prayed, but God has not healed you yet, you are in a
holding pattern.
2. When you are having problems with your children and
you have put them on the altar, but God has not
delivered them yet, you are in a holding pattern.
3. When you have been praying for the salvation of a
loved one and they have not been saved yet, you are in
a holding pattern.
4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have
given it over to God, but it has not been restored
yet, you are in a holding pattern.
5. When the doors slam shut before you can knock on
them, you are in a holding pattern.
When we are deep in the belly of a difficult
situation, there are no interruptions. God has our
undivided attention. All we can do is sit, think,
meditate, and pray. We cannot run from God because
there are no mountains that are high enough, valleys
that are low enough, rivers that are wide enough,
rooms that are dark enough, or places that are hidden
enough from Him. We must remember to praise Him while
we're waiting and remember three things:
1. The pattern has a purpose.
2. The pattern has a plan.
3. The pattern has a process.
So stop struggling and start listening, praying and
trusting. He'll keep you right where you are until
you can clearly hear Him say, "I love you."
Prayer:
"Father, forgive my unbelief. I know you love me and
will turn anything around to benefit me. You have
planned nothing for me but victories and I am ready to
receive them regardless of how difficult the path.
Amen."
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution
is the distance between your knees and the floor. The
one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.
Be Blessed.
A Positive Thought
If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on
it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He
sends you flowers every Spring and a sunrise every
morning. Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen. He
can live anywhere in the universe, and He chose your
heart.
What about the Christmas gift He sent you in
Bethlehem; not to mention that Friday at Calvary.
Kathy
I have a different condition than you, I have Reflex Sympathetic
Dystrophy. I'm not sure if you have any idea what it is, anyway with
my rsd comes neuropathy. I was put on neurontin for the horrible,
intense burning pain. I was 140 pounds and 5' 9" when I started it
and increased to almost 190 pounds. I was taking 900mg three times a
day. It didn't matter what I ate or did I gained weight. It was
incredibly frustrating. My doctor switched me to topamax. I'm not
sure if you or anyone here has heard of it but it is a newer drug and
in the same class as neurontin however it doesn't have the same side
effects as neurontin (i.e. weight gain). For a good percentage of
people the one side effect it does have is that it causes weight
loss. If you have gained weight from other medicines it allows you
to loose that excess weight. In my case I lost 50 pounds in maybe 6
or 7 months. I was loosing weight so quick I couldn't keep up with
it, as soon as I bought new clothes they were to big on me.
Obviously everyone will not react the same it may take you longer or
shorter or you may not loose any weight at all but I sure like it a
lot better that neurontin. My doctor actually just told me that
there is a study going on now about topamax and weight loss.
I don't have any tinging with my neuropathy but I can say that I
have 3 stimulators two peripheral and one spinal and I have gotten
used to all of them. I don't notice the "tingling sensation' anymore
unless I turn the stimulator up and then after a few hours or so I'm
used to it again. In fact to be honest my spinal cord stimulator is
one of the rechargeable ones and there have been a few times when it
has turned off and I didn't even realize it. I am so used to the
feeling that there was no difference when it turned off. I would sit
there wondering why my pain suddenly got worse and finally realized I
forgot to charge.
I hope I was some help to you. Good luck.
Jaci
Thank you Linda. I love my name also. Thanks for the compliment also. I am very glad to have a very supportive group to help in this fun reality that we live in!!
Pax,
In JMJ
Angelique
hi there chickadees.
oK BACK TO BIG LETTERS.
Just wanted to let you know that the one who called me from urgent care to
give me the results did not tell me everything-when I asked for the specific
bacteria isolated on the culture & sensitivity test, she said it did not show
the
actual name-just that it was a bacteria. Well, I picked up my records today,
and it shows a "proteus mirabilis" bacterial growth, and then the doctor had
that circled and marked in his writing "unusual for skin wound." So now we know
what bacteria we are dealing with. I've had proteus before so I understand a
little bit the nature of the beast.
Just another example of why patients need to be proactive and ask questions,
and always get the records.
I saw the doctor today at the urgent care desk when I picked up my records
and he asked how it was doing. When I explained that it was still draining, he
said it needed cut open surgically and drained. I told him I needed to go to my
internist for surgical clearance anyway, so I would just take the records to
that office and have them do the procedure because then they could follow up.
I called my internist's nurse, and she got me worked in with one of the other
doctors tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. to get it taken care of.
I'll be able to give you all more info after that.
Thanks for praying!
Kathy W. in KY
Hi Angelique -
I will be praying for you and your family as well. What a lovely name
you have --named after the Angels, you are!!
Your attitude of forbearance is lovely to behold.
I wish you the peace of Christ,
Linda D
Thanks ladies for your input on the Lyrica. My next appointment is on the 30th and I will ask my doctor about it then.
Sorry for these updates, but your well-wishes and prayers mean a lot to me!
News From Kathy Willis:
I went to the internal medicine office today. My internist is away on
maternity leave, so I got another doctor. Russ and I both liked her a great
deal. She
went over my medical history, with the various infections and cysts and the
chronology for this current abscess. She did an exam and said the abscess had
to be surgically opened, drained, scraped out, the wall of the abscess removed,
and then saline rinsed. So she did that and left a wick to drain any further
infection, then a dressing. I'm to go back on Friday for a checkup. The
incision is about 1 cm in size-so not real big-but she did use forceps to open
it
more, and went in fairly deep to make sure she got it all. I appreciated the
fact that she was thorough, that she gave me a "play-by-play" as she did the
procedure, and she didn't hurt me! Russ stood at my head and he said he watched
my
face to make sure I wasn't saying "I'm fine" if I was hurting. So he didn't
actually watch the procedure-said it would gross him out. But the doc even
checked on him to make sure he was doing okay while she was doing the procedure,
so I thought that was really sweet. I'm sure she didn't want him to pass out!
Also she said that my lymph nodes in my groin are swollen from this
infection. I have 3 more days of levaquin, so we will wait it out and see if
this
improves, since I haven't had a real fever after being on this latest
antibiotic.
And she addressed the blood pressure problem I've had for the past two
months. She checked it twice will I was there and it was high, and she noted how
high it was when I went to urgent care, and how high it has been at home. She
changed my medication and wants it rechecked when I come in on Friday. And will
have me come in next week as well. She said they can't clear me for surgery
until the blood pressure is under control or I could stroke out on the table.
She is hopeful that both the abscess and the hypertension will be okay so
that I could have surgery in 3 weeks time.
She did say if the abscess doesn't clear it up, I'll have to have a "bigger"
surgery with a surgeon, and also will have to see an infectious disease
doctor. She also said with my history of infection, and with being on a low-dose
chemotherapy (Methotrexate), that I should probably see an infectious disease
doc
anyway-he might want to do something to help prevent future infections.
She wrote on the bill that it was an incision and drainage of an abnormal
wall abscess. And she prescribed 30 Vicodin to take for pain as I recover from
this little surgical procedure. I thought that was sweet of her considering I
had no pain medication at all after the trial of the spinal cord stimulator! I
doubt I'll need 30, but they are nice to have on hand!
Well, this has gotten long, so I will close. Thanks again for the prayers!
Kathy W. in KY
Hi Christy,
I'm so glad you're back!
I've been praying for you and your family. I knew things weren't well
when you were absent for so long.
Keep well. I look forward to hearing from you again.
God Bless,
chris
Hi Everyone,
I have been so sick for the last two weeks that I haven't been online
much at all. I apologize for not responding to some of the messages
but I would get on line for a just a small amount of time and by the
time I got to all your messages, I couldn't go on. So Please forgive
me.
I have been sick with a cold,and most of all my eyes have been
mattering shut and when they are open they just burn. I looked up
conjuctivitis and it said it has to run its course, so that is what I
am letting it do. It is finally getting a bit better the last few
days.
So let's see:
Betty: I don't have the problems you have spoke of with your legs
feeling heavy although I have heard others complain of this. Have you
not said in the past that you have restless leg syndrome? Isn't that
a part of that? I would definately as Lynn said, check with the
doctor.
Lynn: You are always such a happy poster when you leave messages. I
really enjoy reading your emails. I pray that things are all going
well with you.
Lynda: Haven't heard much from you. You said you were back after a
couple weeks of being down. I pray that you too are doing well.
Sandy: Haven't heard from you. What is happening? Did we find out
anymore about Jeff?
Pat: Have sent up prayers for your friends as well as your family and
grandson. Hope you are doing better.
Carrie: I am so happy that you are doing so well after your surgery.
Please continue on the path of speedy recovery.
Sherree and Sherrie and Karen: Haven't heard a thing from you all so
I hope no news is good news.
I pray that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are having pain
tolerable days leading into the Christmas season. I have started my
shopping but haven't started wrapping or put up my tree or anything
yet. Not sure if I will have the energy to put up tree. Maybe have to
go without this year and just enjoy it at the other homes I will be
celebrating in. No one will be coming to my house so...........why
take on the chance of more pain.
I have added my name and address to the database. Betty another
suggestion to add for the database would be our birthdates? What do
you think?
Well gotta go.
Post again soon.
Love
Dori
Denise and Harry and all,
I have finally been suggested for the Medtronic Synchromed Pump by my Dr. Some
of you may remember that a while back they were trying to talk me into the
stimulator. I was subtle but expressed my concerns that a 50% reduction in pain
and ll the things you can't do were too much for me to consider the stimulator.
I hae said all along that if I was going to consider anything like that it would
be a pump. Given my age (38) and the fact that I am taking 60mgs of Kadian twice
a day with Lortab for breakthrough it is a logical choice. I know some of you
might say that my meds level is not high enough.
My dr said that they would do a trial and then decide if we want to put it in
permanently. He said he would have a neurosurgeon put it in. I asked him who
exactly it would be and he said he would have to check that he didn't know right
then and there. The other thing is my insurance. I have WC and they would have
to pay for it but with my luck lately with them I would have to take them to
court to get it done. I have read at Medtronic's site that they would like to
get pre-approval for the surgery beforehand.
I would like ANYONE to weigh in and feel free to give me some suggestions.On
eof the things I would feel would be a utmost importance would be how many of
these does the surgeon put in a year. How many would the group feel would be an
acceptable number. Also I assume the batteries still need to be replaced in 3-5
years.
I also take Provigil, Ambien, and Zoloft. Would I still be able to take these
meds?
From a pathology perspective is it going to be better for my liver etc. to
have the pump versus oral Kadian. The BOLUS you guys speak of I assume from what
I've read is a way to give yourself an extra boost of meds in times of severe
pain. Any other things you guys can think of for me to ask? I truly appreciate
your help.
Dennis
Hello All
I hope everyone is doing well and or recovering nicely.
I met with my Medtronic rep about the burning I am having around my battery
unit. I don't know if anyone else has experienced this. I had my surgery
February 27 of this year. I am just recently having a lot of burning around the
unit. My rep checked the operations of system and all is working fine. She
thinks it could possibly be the scar tissue that is forming in the pocket. She
said it could take up to a year to be completely scarred over. She recommends
taking it easy and cushioning the unit when I am sitting or driving (I have it
placed in my left upper buttock). I have an appointment in September with my
surgeon and my rep is going to be there to discuss the possible cause. Who knows
what is really causing this. I have had to increase my pain meds because it gets
to the point that I just can't stand it. Has anyone else had this problem? If
so, what was the cause and what needed to be done to get rid of the pain?
Thanks to all!
Denise (Massachusetts)
CHOSE FOUR OTHERS TO SEND THIS TO AND SEND BACK TO ME
God still sits on the throne, the devil is a liar.
You may be going through a tough time right now but God is getting
ready
to bless you in a way that only He can. Keep the faith.
My instructions were to pick four people that I wanted God to bless,
and I
picked you. Please pass this to at least four people you want to be
blessed
and a copy back to me. This prayer is powerful, and prayer is one of
the
best gifts we receive. There is no cost but a lot of rewards. Let us
continue to pray for one another.
Here is the prayer:
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and email buddies
reading
this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power.
Holy
Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very m oment.
Where
there is pain, give th