ANA Discussion Forum
Post-Treatment => Cognitive/Emotional Issues => Topic started by: Captain Deb on June 13, 2010, 04:45:14 pm
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Oh boy, here we go again! I am way to young to have this many problems!
I have dumped my GP due to many billing errors and him not referring me to a back specialist for many months. Last week I had 2 more joint injections into my sacroiliac joints--NOT fun.
I went to the Urgent Care on Sat because the weird bug bite on my inner thigh was not healing and I had a yucky looking red, inflamed volcano about the size of a silver dollar. While I was there the FNP felt my lymph nodes in my neck. No swelling there, but she did find a lump on my thyroid. Then she checked my heart and found I was tachycardic--more rapid than normal heartbeat. She said I needed to get myself to a GP ASAP. Oh great! Try getting an appointment with a new GP and having Medicare! She gave me a list of GPs accepting new patients and half of them would not take new Medicare patients. The other half had a 2-3 month wait. There were maybe 2 on a list of a dozen or so providers that will accept me soon.
So tomorrow I get to call around and BEG for a doctor's appointment.
It just seems like I get over one thing and another happens. Last year I went through a painful liver cyst, a collapsed lung from having the thing drained and biopsied, a hysterectomy, and a severe case of sacroiliitis from being laid up for so long. Not to mention still having post-op headaches, which seem to be the least of my problems right now as I have responded really well to Botox injections. I just can't catch a break! I eat well but exercise of any kind has been so painful in the past year. My back seems to be getting better and I bought a book on core training written by a physical therapist named Peggy W. Brill called "The Core Program." I really want to start the program, but now all I want to do is sit in my recliner and slurp down root beer floats--it is really depressing......
Jeesh! I am really missing my art. Even with the headaches I was able to but in a few hours a day painting. I haven't been able to work for 14 months.
A few symptoms of a thyroid problem include anxiety, dizziness, and irritability. It would be great if that's what it is and not just me being a crazy *****! So maybe this is not a bad thing. The real problem is finding a new doctor.
I should just show up somewhere and threaten to run 'em through with me cutlass if they don't see me!!
Capt Deb (http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/skull_sword_through_head_lg_clr.gif)
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At a loss for words :'( :'( ... will discuss directly with you.
Oy gevalt! Hang in there, m'dear! :-* :-* :-*
xoxoxoxoox and all of that mushy stuff!
Your lovely, charming, oh-my-word, co-hort in Pirate crime
Cursed Cruise director... what's her name! :-*
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Deb, if I were there I would buy you a root beer float.
Even though it is just one more thing, low thyroid is easily treated and it doesn't take long for replacement thyroid medication to work wonders. Literally like turning a light switch on. You have no idea how dark the room has gotten until that switch is thrown.
Do you need to see a GP to get a referral to an endocrinologist? That's the specialty I would recommend for treating thyroid.
Sara
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Deb .....
This is not the sweet, caring woman I met in Chicago last summer. Somehow, in my heart, I feel like something is festering in you causing all of this anguish for you. Oh, I pray it is your thyroid and a change in medications will bring much needed relief! Hopefully you will soon be led to the right diagnostician, who will put all of these things together and find the proper course of treatment for you.
I am so grateful the headaches seem to be much better now with the Botox. Now, to just get the other annoying things under control.
I can empathize with you about the vicious circle we can get into with pain (or dizziness/imbalance) leading to lack of exercise and lack of exercise leading to more problems, etc. ..... and, you are such a fabulous artist I just hope and pray you will soon have it all together again and be able to get back to what you love.
Many thoughts and much love,
Clarice
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Sometimes I feel like the guy in "Alien" at the dinner party who has a little...er..chest issue......
I have no social life, my love life is sorely lacking, and I get absolutely panicky when my grandkids come up. The 7 year old seems to have a few behavior problems and is always in trouble. Any little boo-boo- or bump sends him into a shrieking fit. The 4 year old is pretty sweet most of the time. They just don't mind anyone at all. Don't throw rocks down the driveway--the dog tries to catch them and may swallow one. Been told that 3 or 4 times a day for 3 years, yet they still do it! Don't climb in Pop's truck!! I go out 5 minuts later and there they are, in Pop's truck. I just can't handle them most of the time and feign a headache and lock myself in my bedroom. We are taking them and their Ma, my step-daughter-in-law, to the beach over the 4th of July and staying in a nice condo on the beach at Emerald Isle, NC. I love my grandkids but I am dreading the trip because of the anxiety I experience when they act up. I do not like drama and it's constant drama, drama, drama!! Maybe the doc can give me some short term anti-anxiety meds to get me through the trip so I'm not tempted to hitchhike the 400 miles home! On the upside, there is a pool and the ocean although the older one will probably scream bloody murder if a drop of saltwater gets in his eye. His little bro is real different. He falls down or off something an gets up and laughs. I'm going to get both of their little butts on a boogie board if it's the last thing I do. I'm getting them surfboards when they are ten and giving them lessons!
These feelings (wanting to whack little people upside the head with a brick) are out of character for me for sure. I have been telling Dr Love that living with constant pain for the past 14 months has driven me a little insane. Been doing research on hypo- and hyper-thyroidism and finding some of the weird sympoms I've having right in there-
excessive sweating, flushing, dizziness, insomnia, irritability, depression, isolating, trouble swallowing and feeling like there's a large lump in my throat.
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore these boys, but these phases they are going through are rough on all the family, not just me. But I'm the one it affects most because loud high-pitched screaming, anxiety, and SSD do not mix well.
Thanks for reading--sorry if I was a lil ranty. I'll let you know if I get an appointment.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/skull_sword_through_head_lg_clr.gif)
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Deb~
I had my thyroid removed 4 years ago - I was having trouble and had lots of nodules. Thyroid stuff runs in my family so I knew it was just a matter of time & we figured I would do better with surgery at 35 instead of 45 or 55! I wasn't having any of the symptoms before except trouble swallowing b/c of the growths. I've always said that if I had to recommend a surgery - that would be the one! Once the anesthesia got out of my system...I was good to go! The girlies were 3, 4 & 8 so i had my hands full! My MIL, on the other hand, still has hers but just takes medicine. She said it was JUST LIKE WHAT YOU ARE DESCRIBING with the grandkids! She is the ultimate grandma but they were living in Canada at the time and she came to Houston for a visit. She could hardly stand to be around the kids...said it was HORRIBLE and when she went back home she went straight to the Dr. and told him that something was wrong - after they regulated the meds, she was right as rain!!
Good Luck in finding a Dr. and good luck with getting all this straightened out...so glad the headaches are better!
K ;D
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Capt. Deb........
Sending you cyber hugs and root beer float. Thanks to your ranting, I am making an appointment with my wonderful family practitioner...........I have been having a lot of the symptoms you are describing. I can't figure out why the doctor in the ER didn't have a doctor on duty see you. I would be going back to the ER with your symptoms and insist on seeing someone for this problem and let them refer you to a doctor who you can see now.
My friends in Newland just sold their cabin because there doctor there retired and finding a new one for the summer months was near impossible and they have too many medical issues to not have one they can get in to see in a hurry.
Take care and keep us updated.
Hugs and love,
Brendalu
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Sometimes life gives you lemons, and quite frankly, other times life totally sucks.
But you are strong and you'll get through this.
Better days are ahead. You will prevail.
Prayers,
Jan
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Ah, Capn Deb,
I hear your anguish. Hang in there, hopefully you'll feel better when the thyroid situation gets under control.
Meanwhile, continue to vent. Argghhh I bet it feels good to get it all out of your mindE :'(
Maureen
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Deb,
You deserve to have things go your way and I'm sending my good vibes to help you find a competent doctor quickly. There is no happy medium in my opinion, it seems when life is good its really good, but when it's bad it f'ing sucks!!!
Hang in there, Liz
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Well, miracle of all miracles, I called one of the docs on my list and got an appt this morning! She is an FNP and was really great. She seemed pretty concerned that my anxiety issues hadn't been addressed till now and was kind of appalled that I hadn't been referred to a back specialist after being treated for 11 months by my old GP with no improvement.
She sent me to the lab for a blood work-up and said she would get back in touch with me today. I really really liked this woman and am amazed that she worked me into her schedule today. She said if it's not a thyroid issue causing all these symptoms, she'd be able to help me with the anxiety issues with some meds. I really don't want to rely on anything like Xanax, because it just treats the symptoms temporarily and not the over-all condition.
Thanks for all your support--don't want to think of what life would be like without you Forumites. Or Forumeers (like Mouseketeers) Or Foruminas and Foruminos. Forumettes?
Hugs,
Capt Deb
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That's fantastic! I'm breathing a sigh of relief for you...
Liz
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Deb ~
I was dismayed to read your first two posts because they clearly indicated that your myriad health problems are definitely affecting your 'quality of life' - and that is intolerable, for anyone. You probably cope with it better than I would but that doesn't alter the very natural sense of frustration you're experiencing. Young children can be trying as you get older. I don't have any grand-kids (yet) but I know that some of our friends grandchildren, with their frantic running, whining, crying, frequent disobedience and all the stuff little kids do, set my teeth on edge, and of course, I can't utter one word to anyone about it, except to my wife, in private, the next day. Still, they grow up so fast and you hate to see their childhood slip away while you retreat to your room. This is why I was delighted to read your last post and learn that you were able to secure an appointment with a Family Nurse Practitioner that you like and who is responding to your medical problems. I trust that your medical issues can now be adequately addressed and the symptoms soon alleviated so that your life can return to a more even keel, as it were. As always, we're rooting for you, Captain.
Jim
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Oh Capt'n, I am SO GLAD that you found someone to see - and so quickly!! Truly an answer to prayers!! Sounds like she is going to be a good one to help you and really listen and do something to help you!! Am anxious to see what your work-up shows! Thyroid, while sometimes tricky to get the EXACT right does, is a realatively simple thing to regulate - I hope that is a simple solution to your problems!
K ;D
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Yea, good news! Just to know that a professional actually cares makes the difference.
Don't worry about the xanax if you need it. Small doses will not hurt you and you know it's addictive and such. Do what you gotta do-it's hopefully temporary.
Let us know what the results show. Hopefully she was true to her word and called you back today.
Maureen
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Excellent, Captain. Twill be smooth sailing from here out, I'll wager.
Sara
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Ah Captain,
When i read the subject line, I was dreading reading your post. This was then confirmed with your second post but on the third, i was more relieved.
Deb, you have given so much help, encouragement and humour to this forum, that its about time, you had some good fortune come your way. early days, but seems like you have found a quack that is interested in your health rather than your wallet (rare these days) and thats a great start.
Deb, I don't pray but I will put in a request to any superior being that may be out there (Klingon, Vulcan etc) to cast their EMH (Emergency Medical Hologram) down to you with treatements that will work to help your ailments.
Laz
XXXXX
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Well, I heard from Leanne, my new Primary, and my thyroid is fine, which is a relief. But I am making an appointment with my ENT anyway because this lump is bothering me. She says I am suffering from severe anxiety from having chronic pain for so many years, especially this past one and probably PTSD from going through all the health issues in the past year. At least this crisis has lead me to a new doc, who doesn't seem to be more concerned with billing Medicare than with my health. She is putting me on Zoloft.
I woke up with a migraine so I need to quit typing! Thanks to all of you for your support--your kind words mean more to me than you will ever know!
Hugs,
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/mz_0101_10034339657.gif)
(like my graphic? I built her!)
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I'll raise some grog to Dr. Leanne.
Sara
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Zoloft is good. It usually kicks in pretty quick (spoken from experience :D) Max dose is 200 mg/day, so if they start you on 50 mg/day, let's say, you have room to increase the dosage. I had to keep increasing the dosage when I started on it, which was actually eons ago, before the AN for PMS stuff and going crazy withe the little ones at the time.It helped tremendously! I'm thinking I'll just stay on it until I get through menopause ;)
It that doesn't work, something else will. Glad your thyroid is OK, but yea, get to your ENT ;)
Hope your migraine went away...
Maureen
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Do like your brain wreck pirate...fantastic, argh. Funny little thought too, are you on facebook? If so you should scroll to the bottom of the page and you can change the language to pirate...it is amazing! Everything you read and write is in pirate speak...
hee hee sorry for the mini hijack
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Deb .....
Love the brainwreck graphic ...... good to see you doing these fun things for all of us. And, so glad you have found a sympathetic PCP. She sounds wonderful!
My phone rang a few minutes ago and it was our wonderful PCP. Basically she was just calling to check on both of us ..... sure takes the pressure off of us having to always be in charge of whether we need treatment or not. She treats us like we are intelligent, human beings with needs beyond the physical aspects. It sounds like you have found the same with your new doc.
Let us know what the ENT says and how you do with the Zoloft.
Much love, Clarice
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Do like your brain wreck pirate...fantastic, argh. Funny little thought too, are you on facebook? If so you should scroll to the bottom of the page and you can change the language to pirate...it is amazing! Everything you read and write is in pirate speak...
hee hee sorry for the mini hijack
Wot kinda pirate wench would I be if my facebook din't be talkin' pirate? It was the first thing I plundered!
Now, back to the topic! AAAARRRRR!!!! And bring on the Happy Pills!!!! Happy Pills all 'round!!!!
Capt Deb (http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/mz_0101_10034339661.jpg)
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Ok I recently joined FB and don't think you are my friend! But you are going to be, can't wait to see the pirate talk.
Maureen
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Hey Moe!
LOL! I was going to ask you if you are on FB!!! Will send you a friend request but need your full name. I will send you mine in an email.
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You listed many issues that lead me to wondering if they started more AFTER your hysterectomy? That is something that can throw your body of and your thyroid, big time...even if one is over 50!!!! Doctors tend to prescribe anti depressants/anti anxiety meds and never test hormones to see if that may be a culprit.
Have you ever seen a therapist? I started shortly after my surgery and SSD and feel it has been great. A good one usually has tips or tools to offer that can help in addition to medicines for stuff too! Hopefully Zoloft will help! I know plenty of people who have taken that one and DO call it the "Happy Pill" ;)
Take care!
Denise
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Leanne thought that the back prob was triggered by the hysterectomy--possibly the position I was in during the 2 1/2 hr surgery, which was the same length of time as my AN surgery. She also recommended seeing a chiropractor, something no doc has ever recommended. We have so many chiropractors up here--I went to one who all he did was thump on me with a little metal tool--thought he was a complete quack. I'm going to let her pick one for me.
Right now I am a wreck--the past two days my back has been howling and I woke up with a migraine on Tues and then got whacked really suddenly about 5:00 PM yesterday with one of the worst ones I have had in a year. Imitrex didn't touch it. I think they feed off of each other, the back and the head pain.
Thanks for all your support--I love you guys!
Capt Deb
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Tbhe chiro that I have gone to in the past uses one of those little thumper things - BOY, I was surprised to find out how much they do work!
K ;D
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Hi Deb
I've been going to a chiro for a couple of months, she uses one of the clicky things and its helping. I was holding my head really crooked and now I'm not which I think is helping my headaches. My neck muscles are not as tight either. Hope you find some relief too :D
Jennifer
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Hi Deb,
I thought Chiro's were more useful for pulling and tweaking muscles and bones and stuff. Maybe you need an MRI or xray on your back just to see if there isn't something else happenning there. I get muscle spasms a lot and use a cream called Annika or there is one called Anti Flamme (Kiwi version). Both work like anti inflamatory creams but are natural so they don't get into the blood stream and hence the stomach. the main pain relief ingredient is actually called Annika.
Its not a cure but a relief. the cream is available at chemists and probably is called something different in the U.s but worth a try.
Take care Deb
laz
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Laz,
I have had an MRI and there seems to be no disc problem, just those inflamed sacroiliac joints. I see the osteo doc on Tues and will ask about the Flector patch:
http://www.flectorpatch.com/ (http://www.flectorpatch.com/)
My neighbor uses these for a similar condition. Feeling better today--headache gone and back pain down to a screaming 5. Head down to a 3. Does that make my pain level an 8?
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/mz_0101_10034339657.gif)
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Hi Deb....Gald to hear your feeling better today.
I had a question for you about gabepenton.Did you have major issues w/ it?Did it stop working suddenly?
I started it a couple weeks ago and seems to be helping w/ pain in neck and head and muscle spasms.
i have been able to stop the flexiril.I do find i am having to take an xtra lorazepam to sleep.I am getting so much energy.
i do not kno if its from the med or not having a spasing head.
Thanks Cindy
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I think you're feeling better! Gabapentin made me really drowsy and sleepy. I'm thinking of going back on it for both my back and my head--will talk to the doc on Tues.
Capt Deb
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Deb, I'm so sorry you're having so much going on. I hope you get relief soon. Just wanted to chime in about chiropractors. I went to one years back, stopped for a long time but returned last year. It's helped me greatly. My spine is curved a bit making my right hip slightly higher than the left. Sounds crazy but it had gotten to the point where I had trouble lifting my right leg to clear a step. Once the chiro got my back loosened up, that right hip/leg functions much better. The chiro might be able to help with migranes too. A lot of people and in particular docs don't believe in chiropractics but this nurse sure does!! Hope you get to feeling better soon.
Sandra
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Deb,
I also saw a chiropractor, but its just to expensive to keep up...had a lot of relief, but you have to keep going and it started to wear on my credit card if ya know what I mean...
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Dear Deb,
I'm sorry to hear you're not feeling well.
I posted somewhere else a few months ago about the Flector Patch. I was using it, but ran out. It has flexeril in it. I also have a patch with Lidocaine in it. THe problem is that the sticky stuff on it is no good and it keeps falling off your neck. I wasn't getting much relief from it. I guess because my neck is pretty bad. I feel better from the Salonpas that you can get from Costco or the drug store and the ice pack or the heat pack that you microwave.
Nothing I am trying is working. Not even the Neurontin. The Imitrix stops working when you use it too long. That's what happened to me about 15 years ago when I used to have headaches with endometriosis. It's all so frustrating. I took your advice and have the appointment with the anesthesiologist on July 14. Wish you would get better and stay better.
Hugs,
Mei Mei
Add me to your FB page Seroun Mei Mei Wang
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I finally got a diagnosis on what's going on with my back. I have an encapsulation tear in my left sacroiliac joint--something the docs can actually SEE!! The second doc saw it in the dye they use for needle placement during the injection procedure. I can't believe I have been walking around with this for 13 months. He gave me some pain meds that actually work, Ativan to take when I wake up in the middle of the night with level 9 pain, a PT prescription, and an appt to get another couple joint injections, which I may not have. I also got a prescription for the Flector Patch, which I used one night and actually slept through the night for the first time in almost a year. I'm back on Neurontin for this--was going to go back on it for the head anyhow.
The tear is probably from surgical position during my laparoscopic hysterectomy a year ago in May. These things are caused by trauma usually and the pain started right afterwards so putting 2 and 2 together. Maybe they dropped me!
Sounds about like my luck with surgeries!
Anyway, the doc said it would heal but it would be a long time and might bother me the rest of my life. Just like my head apparently. Just call me Heads N Tails!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/mz_0101_10034339657.gif)
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Heads and Tails Deb ~
Thanks for the update. I'm glad to learn that the cause of your back pain has been identified and addressed so that you're finally getting some relief. As the spouse of a lady who lives with pain 24/7, I can empathize with your situation and share your satisfaction at the pain source finally being verified by your doctor. May things continue in this positive direction.
Jim
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Dear Heads N Tails Captain Deb,
First of all I'm so glad you found a good primary care after listening to your gut and dropping the original one. From one surgery to the next it's like what you said on another post ... a domino effect ... of woes. It' just keeps getting worse. I'm so glad you've found somebody that's put you on the right track.
I really feel for you and wish I could stand there in the operating room and police those guys to make sure they don't do you wrong. The best thing is to stay away for ORs if you can. Just stay as conservative as you can. We've had our share of bad luck with tumors, that's for sure. Here's to good health. I'll drink a root beer float with you tonight! Glad the Flector Patch and Neurontin is working for you.
Hugs to you,
Mei Mei
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Thanks Jim and Mei mei--you guys have become like family to me!
H&T(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/mz_0101_10034339657.gif)
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And you to me, the feeling is mutual. We're forumites.
We take care of each other!
Hugs,
Mei Mei
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And you to me, the feeling is mutual. We're forumites.
We take care of each other!
Amen sister!
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Captain Heads and tails parrot!
geesh, any more titles you wanna have????
At least you got a diagnosis, even though ts not great, at least pain relief can be targetted.
Thinking of ya down under.
laz
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I'm so glad you know the source of your back pain and your new NP is doing something for you!!!
I hope it will heal quickly for you
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Capn Deb,
I am so sorry to read about everything you've got going on and all the pain. I hope things are goign better and getting better.
Keri
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I couldn't help thinking of this thread today at the dentist for a simple cleaning, my first since AN surgery 19 months ago. I have put it off because of my TMJ and partial facial paralysis. They knocked a crown off and could not get it back in. Now cold drinks hurt. Must go back next week to get it fixed. OK, I cried a little bit and then had to laugh. Can I get a break? I'm thinking the lottery. Susan
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Ah, that sucks.
Are they going to pay for a new crown or just put the old one back on?? If they pay for a new one, then you came out ahead!
Maureen
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OK now I really can't get a break!! Had an appt with the ENT--the one who delivered me the news of my AN while I was in the hospital (went in the day before with awful migraine combined with stuffy ear and hearing loss--GP admitted me thinking it was an AN) and he recommends removing my thyroid nodule, which is pretty large and interfering with my swallowing. After I said I choked on a vitamin the other day he really stressed I get the thing removed. It is out-patient and pretty simple surgery. I've got a terrible track record with post-op complications--chronic migraines from AN surgery and chronic back pain from a torn sacroiliac joint capsule from a hysterectomy. I figure all my bad luck is used up!
Surgery is August 24--wish me luck!!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
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Deb,
Geez that is some bad luck, but hopefully this one will be nothing. Quick recovery with no pain! Sorry to hear you have to have another surgery, sucks to go under the knife no matter how minor.
Hang in there,
Liz
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Deb ~
I'm sorry to learn that you have to endure yet another surgery, albeit a minor one, as an out-patient. Still, who needs the stress? If wishing can make it happen, I trust that some good luck is coming your way. :)
Jim
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So sorry for all your problems and wish you luck on August 24... That is exactly how I feel cannot catch a break either the year prior to my surgery I had issues but after is just worst with post-op issues now I have gastroparesis and was advised to get the gallbladder out well I did still feel the same truly believe it is from th 10th cranial nerve while they were working on the 8th. Next is surgery for the urinary bladder that is another story neck and back pain worse since surgery. But now the big one is I just find out with my 1 year MRI that I have some residual from the surgery a year ago and the doctors knew it and I did not !!! They told me it was totally removed and I had scar tissue... I am still in shock and do not know which way to turn now ?? I try to keep saying I am still lucky and there are others worse but I have many moments of depression ....
My prayers and thoughts will be with you on the 24th of August.
Best Wishes,
Pat
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Deb,
When i think of you, the expression "when it rains, it pours" comes to mind. The best thing about bad weather is that it has to stop. I wish you many, many happy and sunny days. Hope this thyroid thing is just a bump in the road.
Eve
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Dear Deb,
You've done so much good for all of us, some good has got to come your way. Maybe you should start wearing the evil eye to keep it away from you.
If it makes you feel better I'll share with you my latest: I took my father home from the Rehab Hospital yesterday and they scheduled 4 days a week of Out Patient therapy for me to drive him to starting this Friday. Right now we still don't have the Handicapped transportation arranged for yet so I have to do all the driving and waiting around the hospital. I'm the one that needs to be in the rehab with the throbbing in my skull and neck and nightly headaches ,,, but no Oh no, GrandPa comes first. Hope this Metro Access Card gets processed real soon so that I won't have to drive him forever.
Please stay well. I wish you could come up here and go to our accupuncturist that has the best Massage therapist right afterwards. Is there any such a place near you to help you relax?
Mei Mei
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Sending you all the good luck, Deb. You definitely are way overdue for a break!
Debbi
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Mei mei,
Have you thought about calling Social Services for help with Grandpa? Maybe they can hook you up with a car service of some kind. Or is that what the Metro Access card is for? When my mom became disabled, a physical therapist came to her home, but that was back in the 80's before this health care crisis. It is almost a danger to drive with the kind of headaches we have. I have had to call Dr Love more than once to come get me while I was out doing stuff and got a brainwreck. Hugs to you and Grandpa.
Capt Deb
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Yes, That's what the Metro Access card is for. It expired last Fall and to get it renewed we have to get the doc. to fill out this long form which he did and then make an appt. in Downtown DC for an interview and bring the form with a copy of our taxes, drag him upstairs in his wheelchair in this heat and traffic and mind you he is disabled and 6 feet tall and I am 5 ft. 3. They won' t exempt him from the interview. It's crazy. Headache and all I have to take him to 5th St. NW in DC to prove to the Metro Access people that he is what he is i.e. a 95 year old hemi plegic hard of hearing old man that can't ride a bus alone.
I need a break too. He wants me to drive him to Charlottesville, VA this weekend for the Great Grandson's two year old birthday party which is going to be in the outdoor park not at home in the A.C. They want to have a picnic in the park at a swimming pool and have hot dogs. I, too, will live through this.
My scalp is pounding with pins and needles and I take Aleve and Topamax and Neurontin and Elavil and and and whatever else I can grab!
We all need a BREAK!!!!
HUGS!!!! Mei Mei
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Dear Capn Deb, Pat, and Mei Mei,
You guys all need a break, most definitely!
DEB- third time's the charm. Get this little nodule taken care of and then smooth sailing :) Saw that you are back in your painting room, so hope your headaches are under control and you can continue your hobby.
PAT-So sorry to hear about your recent news that the "scar" tissue is some residual. Did they say how big the residual? Plus all the other issues. Ugghhh, Hang in there. Don't have to go into details about your bladder surgery :o , but I do know that that can be considered major surgery depending on what they are doing. It is just a full time job taking care of the body, I imagine. :-\
And Mei Mei,
The stress of taking care of your grandpa is a bit much too ask of you, but sounds like you are a trooper. Another example of how one "appears" fine after AN surgery but there is a lot going on that people can't see, so people expect us to just be our old normal selves.....
HUGS to all of you,
Maureen
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Thank you Maureen you have been such a great help to many of us and I personally thank you for your genuine concern... No they did not tell me the size I found out about this by accident so that is very upsetting to me when you trust someone and now this happens they said it is in the ear canal ?? So needless to say I am confused and do not know what to do this time around. But my neurologist who I sent a copy to advises me to not wait get another MRI in 3 months but to start looking for doctors in NY specializing in radiation.. That was my problem before no one accepts my coverage and if they do I never heard of them and have to get someone with more knowledge to do some research for me..
Again, thank you for advice to myself and others on this site that you have given...
Best Wishes,
Pat
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Yes, That's what the Metro Access card is for. It expired last Fall and to get it renewed we have to get the doc. to fill out this long form which he did and then make an appt. in Downtown DC for an interview and bring the form with a copy of our taxes, drag him upstairs in his wheelchair in this heat and traffic and mind you he is disabled and 6 feet tall and I am 5 ft. 3. They won' t exempt him from the interview. It's crazy. Headache and all I have to take him to 5th St. NW in DC to prove to the Metro Access people that he is what he is i.e. a 95 year old hemi plegic hard of hearing old man that can't ride a bus alone.
I need a break too. He wants me to drive him to Charlottesville, VA this weekend for the Great Grandson's two year old birthday party which is going to be in the outdoor park not at home in the A.C. They want to have a picnic in the park at a swimming pool and have hot dogs. I, too, will live through this.
My scalp is pounding with pins and needles and I take Aleve and Topamax and Neurontin and Elavil and and and whatever else I can grab!
We all need a BREAK!!!!
HUGS!!!! Mei Mei
You definitely need a break that is just crazy with what they are putting you through.
Best Wishes,
Pat
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Wishing you all the best my favourite Captain.
Anne Marie :-* :-* :-* :-*
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THanks, Moe and Pat,
We all understand each other. I got turned down by Social Security today for disability even though I retired on Disability with the State last April. I appealed it on line this afternoon. Had yet another killer headache and Verapamil and Neurontin doesn't work. The anesthesiologist's secretary called me back...the one that offers Botox and does procedures of I don't know what. He wants to see my records before they give me an appointment. The first appointment is Aug 30th. Maybe he does scar revision. Who does adhesion revision? Who can tell me that's what I have? I wish I knew what I have besides a headache and why nerve blocks don't touch my headaches. I need some relief. The social security letter says I need to go to work in spite of the headache situation but I'm up all night with a pounding headache and am a mess with ice on my neck till 10 am. Next week I start the driving for four days in a row of my father to the Out Patient Rehab.
Gotta Get a Break. We ALL DO!!!!
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Social security turns EVERYBODY down the first time and 95% down the second--I ended up getting a lawyer who finally won my case after 4 years. You have to get a lawyer--they can't charge you unless they win and even then it is a limited amount--mine was totally worth it.
Capt Deb
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Hi, Mei Mei ~
Just wanted to pop in and add to Deb's comments about Social Security turning you down. She's right on all points and I suggest you take her cogent advice.
My wife went through this in the 1990's, following an auto accident (she was rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign). She had to undergo multiple major spinal surgeries that left her reasonably mobile but with some pain (controlled by non-narcotic prescription medication, most of the time) and unable to continue working at her long-time job as a senior supervisor in a large insurance company. She went on company-sponsored 'long term disability' in 1996 (at 70% of her former salary) and the company demanded she apply for Social Security disability benefits because, in their words "it's an entitlement". What they really meant was that if my wife was awarded SS disability benefits, their contract with her allowed the company to deduct the monthly Social Security stipend from the disability payment the company was making to her. She applied, was turned down, then hired an attorney that specialized in procuring Social Security disability benefits for those qualified to receive them. My wife had voluminous amounts of MRI scans and other medical information as well as numerous letters from her doctors attesting to her injuries and the resulting impact on her ability to function in her previous position. The attorney took her case and asked only for filing expenses and, if he was successful, one third of her total initial award, which would be a lump sum calculated from the date she first filed for SS disability benefits (this is standard procedure). That 'contingency fee' would amount to many thousands of dollars.
Long story short: It took approximately a year, but the attorney won her case and my wife was awarded a monthly benefit based on her previous earnings. That reduced her employer's financial obligation to about 60% of what it was prior to her receiving the Social Security award. That's fine, because my wife still receives the same amount (calculated to the penny by the company) that she would have received from her employer's disability plan, alone. I should note that my wife paid a premium every month she worked for the company disability plan, so it was hardly a gift. Legally (technically) she is still an employee of the insurance company and her 'disability' income from her employer is taxable - but her Social Security benefit is not. She is on Medicare but Blue Cross is her secondary insurer, as it is mine.
I apologize if I've offered a lot of information that isn't relevant to you. However, the real point to all this is that you definitely should consider hiring an attorney to help you secure Social Security disability benefits, because otherwise, it could be a very long time and lots of dealing with the bureaucratic maze to get something you certainly qualify for. I wish you success.
Jim
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Sorry they are making you jump through the hoops Mei Mei......save and send all paper work,mris,heaaring test vestubular test...every dr appointment for head pain,chiro,accupuncture every thing.Take it to an attorney and let him do the fighting for you...its much to much stress for you to deal with.Also.... shouldn't you be getting paid to care for grandpa..through his medicaid or whatever he has for ins????
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Another word about social security disability--you have to be disabled for a year before they will even consider your case.
Capt Deb
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Capn't-
I had my thyroid removed in 2006 and of all the surgeries I have had, this was by far the easiest! In fact, I jokingly recommend it to people! ;D. I get SUPER sick from anesthia but after i got past that, i was up & running dragging the 3 curly girlies all over town. Hope it goes well for you too!
K ;D
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I, too, missed that Deb was having another surgery.
As Donnalynn said, you've been through enough, Captain :o
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Capn't-
I had my thyroid removed in 2006 and of all the surgeries I have had, this was by far the easiest!
Had mine done in 1998 and shared the same with the Capt as well. She doesn't even remember seeing my scar when she spent ALL that time with me last Summer..... She laughed when I told her this is the reason I now sound like my dad (Papa Pearl as some of you know him) and am no longer a soprano opera singer! She sounds good in spirit and she KNOWS how we're cheering her on! :)
Right, Captn? RIGHT??!?! :-* :-* :-*
xo
Signed
Cursed what's her name....
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Thanks EVERYBODY for the comments on my social security case. I contacted a lawyer and she's away till the 19th. Will hand everything over to her and continue taking care of my headaches and my father.
I'm also worried about Captain Deb. Hope she's alright. Today is Tuesday. Is she in surgery today?
Mei Mei
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Hi dear Capitany
Sorry, just tuned in from an absence. Shame you have to have another bit of zapping done but think positively coz we all are with ya.
cheers
laz
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Oh, no, Jan? How are you? You must be recovering!!! I hope you are OK!!!!
Hang Tight! Get Well SOON!!!
Mei Mei
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I'm not even calling my surgery, surgery. It was more like a "procedure".
Doc didn't shave enough hair - or give me a big enough bandage - for it to qualify as a surgery :D
Will post more details tomorrow on one of my threads. It's almost 1 a.m. here and I need to get to sleep!!
Am doing very well, though. Thanks for asking.
Jan
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THanks, Moe and Pat,
We all understand each other. I got turned down by Social Security today for disability even though I retired on Disability with the State last April. I appealed it on line this afternoon. Had yet another killer headache and Verapamil and Neurontin doesn't work. The anesthesiologist's secretary called me back...the one that offers Botox and does procedures of I don't know what. He wants to see my records before they give me an appointment. The first appointment is Aug 30th. Maybe he does scar revision. Who does adhesion revision? Who can tell me that's what I have? I wish I knew what I have besides a headache and why nerve blocks don't touch my headaches. I need some relief. The social security letter says I need to go to work in spite of the headache situation but I'm up all night with a pounding headache and am a mess with ice on my neck till 10 am. Next week I start the driving for four days in a row of my father to the Out Patient Rehab.
Gotta Get a Break. We ALL DO!!!!
Definitely like everyone is saying to get an attorney they could only charge a set fee regulated by SS and it is well worth it one less thing for you to have to contend to you have too much on your plate already ! Be careful driving ...
Best Wishes,
Pat
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I'm not even calling my surgery, surgery. It was more like a "procedure".
Doc didn't shave enough hair - or give me a big enough bandage - for it to qualify as a surgery :D
Will post more details tomorrow on one of my threads. It's almost 1 a.m. here and I need to get to sleep!!
Am doing very well, though. Thanks for asking.
Jan
Sorry I am not on the computer much just saw that as you state you had a procedure ? Just wishing you well.
Best Wishes,
Pat
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Thanks, Pat.
Appreciate you thinking about me.
I'm good.
Jan
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OK Ms. Leapy Trouble-maker-in-charge!
I can't search de whole frickin' forum to find out what kinda procedure you had! What's up?? Inquiring minds want to know. Big hugs to ya!!!
And Dear Donnalynn,
Yes I require your assistance so hop your cute little a$$ inta the motorcoach and set sail for NC ASAP!!!
I'm about to have me throat slit by a very sharp cutlass!! AAAAARRRRR!!!!!!!!!
Capt Deb (http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/skull_sword_through_head_lg_clr.gif)
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Captain -
Details are here http://anausa.org/forum/index.php?topic=13024.0
Big hugs right back at ya!
Jan (aka Trouble)
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I would like to say I really like that SUBJECT line. Its the 1st subject I see when I browse this sub forum. And this thread keeps going and going and being bumped to the top. Very nice.
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Sending Hugs your way, Deb!
Mei Mei
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Big hugs and chirps from downunder
Laz
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My prayers and thoughts are with you,
Pat
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Thyroid surgery over--looks like I been in a cutlass brawl! Not even a frickin bandaid!! Thing was kinda big--maybe 4 cm? No word from pathologist yet. Piece-a-cake compared to brain surgery! AAAARRRRRR!!!!!
Capt Deb (http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/skull_sword_through_head_lg_clr.gif)
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Glad to see you're up and posting, Captain ;D
Jan
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Glad to hear it was successful and you're on the road to recovery!
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Glad it is over and your back to posting praying for good results....
Best Wishes,
Pat
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No, brain surgery's no fun and I've had both too. We're both glad both are behind us. Welcome home and rest well!
Mei Mei
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Glad that's over, now that is IT- no more little or big surgeries ;D
Hope you are able to get back to your painting. :)
Maureen
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Rest easy, the worst is behind you, praying for good results,
Jackie
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Told you it was an easy surgery!! ;D
Glad everything went well!
Now, NO MORE HEALTH ISSUES!! Just JB & painting, OK? ;)
K ;D
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well done El Capitanie.
laz
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You're a trooper and our HERO!
Hugs,
Mei Mei
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Doc just called and talked to Eric because my back kept me from sleeping all night. I hate to be a drama queen but.....ta da! I have thyroid cancer! Ain't that just great! Already had my freak-out meltdown and now I'm doing my research. Doc's gonna go back in and take entire thyroid plus God knows what else! Don't know what else to say...........
Capt Deb
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Capt Deb,
Wow you poor thing, well at least they found it and will be treating you. I'm so sorry you are dealing with yet another health problem. Hopefully you won't have to disrupt too much of the tissues surrounding the thyroid, but I just did a quick google search and learned in most cases its highly treatable. Thank God!!! Try to stay positive about it, but please keep in touch about your diagnosis and treatment.
Hang in there Capt, sending cyber hugs your way XXXXXXXXX
Liz
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OH. MY. GOODNESS.
That's crazy - you have been thru WAY more than enough! I'm so sorry. I hope that it can be as quick & easy as possible. Like Lizard said, it is usually VERY treatable. Know you are in my thoughts & prayers...
K
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Capt Deb,
Breathe, rest, cry, hug Dr Love, cry some more to get it out of your system and than do your research. You are a fighter and a survivor.
Sending my love,
Anne Marie
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Wow. So sorry to hear this. It's too bad you have to go through yet another major issue. I know everyone here will support you throughout your latest adventure. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
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Captain -
sorry about this news, but you're a trooper (and then some) and I'm confident you'll get through this.
One of my older sisters had her thyroid removed (due to thyroid cancer) a few years ago and she's doing very well.
Kisses :-* and prayers to you,
Jan
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I'm soooo sorry to hear your latest health drama. NOT FAIR! But as others have posted you will get through this.
You are strong and determined. Sending positive healing thoughts your way, and lots of prayer too ;)
Maureen
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Deb, Just what you didn't want to hear! I am sorry to hear of one more health problem to get thru when you've had more than your share! My husband had a cousin who had it and had treatment and is fine now. Yell and scream all you want here. We wish we could make it easier for you! Cheryl R
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Oh Captain, our captain,
Praying for your strength and determination to get through this successfully. You are a fighter and we have powerful prayers to help you!
We are here for you!!!
Jackie
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So sorry to hear about your new medical adventures! I also know that thyroid cancer is highly treatable. My neighbor had it a few years ago and is absolutely fine now.
Sending you best wishes,
Eve
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Deb (or should I say Job).....
As they say, aging isn't for sissies, but you have had WAY more than your share of trials and tribulations along the way ..... at far too young of an age. (Not funny, but I first typed fart too young and corrected it! :-*)
Hugs and kisses and lots of prayers for a complete cure.
Clarice
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Deb ~
I'm so sorry to learn about this latest health issue you're facing but by now, I'm sure you've learned that thyroid cancer is quite treatable with thyroid removal and follow-up thyroid hormones, possibly some radiation, depending on the situation. I trust that your prognosis is excellent and you'll surmount this latest, unwanted and undeserved challenge to your well-being. Of course, you'll be in the thoughts and prayers of many as you deal with this situation so you'll never be fighting it, alone. I know you'll keep us all informed as you deal with this. By the way, you're far from being a drama queen, Deb. A doughty Captain, yes, but never a drama queen. :)
Jim
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Doc just called and talked to Eric because my back kept me from sleeping all night. I hate to be a drama queen but.....ta da! I have thyroid cancer! Ain't that just great! Already had my freak-out meltdown and now I'm doing my research. Doc's gonna go back in and take entire thyroid plus God knows what else! Don't know what else to say...........
Capt Deb
calling you later!
xoxoxoxo
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Oh my Deb...God bless you. I wish I could call you.
All my Hugs to you. You are my HERO!
Mei Mei
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I am so sorry to hear about the thyroid cancer but thank goodness this is one type of cancer that so many people get and the outcome is curable...
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Pat
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Spoke to the Capt. She's resting in sick bay right now.... did get a giggle out of her... she really appreciates everyone's love and support. Told her I'd check on her later and will send along Matthew McConnehey (however you spell it) dripped in chocolate (for you PBW gang, you know for what I speak! ;) ).
She's resting now.... and thanks everyone for being here for her.
Phyl
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Thanks Phyl for the update, and hopefully she'll be feeling better soon!
Liz
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She's lurking and saw this thread. Spoke to her today... spirits are better but her back is killin' her! Let me tell ya about our fearless Capt... "fearless" is the key word. She's doing her homework, I made her giggle, we're substituting what's-his-name (the cute blonde dude) from "Lost" instead of Matthew McConnahey(sp?) and she's hanging tough.... truly! I'm feeling her show up here soon (when she's ready) but... do know she's lurking!
Yo! Capt!!!!!!!! Do you want the dood from "Lost" drizzled in chocolate like Matthew was as long as you are stuck in sick bay? :)
xoxo
Phyl
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Rest easy, Capn Deb.
Glad the surgery is over, see ya soon :)
Maureen
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Phyl,
We are talking Sawyer!!! Josh Holloway, he is definitely the man. Good choice our only female moderator ;)
Last night I re-watched the first season finale of Lost, and gosh he looks so good in a pair of wet jeans and nothing else.
So glad to read our Capt is lurking,
Anne Marie
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Glad Deb doesn't want Matthew. I'll take him ;D
Hope the recovery is going well, Captain.
Jan
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To our lurking Captain ~
According to Phyl, your recovery seems to be well underway. This is great news! Cheers to you, Deb!
Jim
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Hi Deb,
Sorry, I have been absent for a while and I know you are our (PBW) leader but no need to trial everything before the crew does, I mean AN's, back problems, and now thyroid cancer.
On a serious note, as Jim has stated, this is very treatable these days but make sure you get some massage going on your back
Lots of love and hugs
Laz