|
Mary Lou - First diagnosed 1997
Like alot of other mothers do, it wasn't uncommon to work, and go back
to school while raising your child or children. Well, that's exactly
what I was doing. In fact, I continued for two years to upgrade from a
college level of education to Business Administration and Computer
Courses that would place me back into the workforce, where I had left
off before having my daughter. I felt like a supermom, in great health
and in good shape, having danced ballet, tap and jazz since I was 9
years of age, and still dancing at 40 years of age. In the middle of
all this chaos, I awoke one morning feeling like I just couldn't get
going, physically and mentally. I didn't understand what was happening
to me. It felt like the blues, but it lay so heavily on me, all I
wanted to do was sleep. Obviously, I could not work like this. I had
to take sick leave. Within six months I was experiencing muscle pain
throughout my whole body. My GP had diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia. I
was one of the lucky ones! My GP was knowledgeable about FM and CFS. My
GP started with some antidepressants as he knew what I was going
through. But as the pain worsened, the illness was becoming complicated
for my GP and we searched for a specialist. Another lucky break!
Through an add in our town's paper, I found a support group for FM and
CFS. This is where I found a FM/CFS Specialist and from there I was
referred to all the right doctors for a complete diagnosis, a
Rheumatologist, Neurologist, Psychiatrist to help with clinical
depression, and from there I was able to get involved with groups of
people who were all going through the same thing. It sure helps when you
have support. I was involved in two support groups!
About 6 years had gone by and my symptoms were taking on a whole new
meaning. My CFS became more than chronic fatigue. It was like I was
starting a second stage of chronic fatigue. I was barely coping with the
first stage and here I was, back at the beginning again. After blood
tests it showed that my cortisol level was so low, it was very
dangerous. A year later, with new medication to help and still no
improvement. More tests and scans, now I've been diagnosed with a
hyperparathyroid condition. My life has taken on a whole new
meaning....sleep....sleep....and more sleep.
So weak, I can hardly take
care of myself anymore. The pain has been so intense, I can't wait to
take my next pain meds. If I have a good night's sleep and two good
naps, that's a good day, what a life! I have given up everything in my
life that I was capable of doing that I enjoyed. This includes being
involved with the support group where I live and writing the newsletter
for FM-CFS Canada. Maybe someday, if the doctors can figure out my new
conditions and get me back on my feet, I would love to volunteer again.
Meanwhile, I spend my days laying my aching body down, while keeping my
faith in prayer!
Mary Lou
|
