News on various stuff.

[ThomCat]

First of all, :grouphug: thank you, so many of you, for being here for me. :)

Silver (Gray's brother) has noticed that he's now alone during the day. He has stopped celebrating and is now very lonely and demanding constant affection. But that's good because it's helping me deal with my grief over Gray's death. It's good to have a cat in my arms.

I saw my pain management doctor today. I got an epidural, two shots of anti-inflamatory drugs into my lumbar spine. The 2nd is in 2 weeks, and the 3rd is in 4 weeks. It's uncomfortable as hell today, and it occassionally feels like I've been just been stabbed. Blinding pain. But if this goes anything like the last series of 3, it will pass and I should have less back pain for a month or two afterward.

There is apparently a pressure point test for Fibromyalgia. My pain management doctor was poking me today and I kept jumping and yelping. Sudden excruciating pains. He says that is proof I have Fibromyalgia. He has a bunch of Fibro patients and he was talking to me about it.

Apparently only 90% of Fibro patients are women, and that's part of the reason that it doesn't get much attention or public credibility as a medical syndrom. Men who have fibro are often diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis first, so the way I got here is apparently common for men.

So, it's good news that one of my current doctors is very experienced with Fibromyalgia, takes it seriously, and knows how to help me deal with it. Yay! My Rheumatologist out-right said that she does not treat Fibromyalgia so I'd have to find a new doctor.

And, it now looks like I'm moving to queens in in August or September. I'll be moving in with a DUer. Cool. :)

[CreekDog]

1. Hi Thom!

:hug:

i'm hoping the new diagnosis and treatments make things a lot better.

hugs to your kitty. :loveya:

[ThomCat]

3. Thank you, and thank you!

:hug:

I hope the future is good for both of us. And you too, because you're a sweetheart! :loveya:

[Robeson]

2. Best of wishes to you Thom....

...my back is f-up'd right now, but when I hear your story, it always gives me hope...:thumbsup:

[ThomCat]

4. I hope your back gets much, much better

and I hope you don't have other pain issues complicating the treatment for your back. Please be well. :hug:

[Robeson]

6. Thanks Thom, ....

...:hug:

[ghostsofgiants]

5. Sorry to hear about Gray, that is sad.

But at least you seem to have a good diagnosis this time so hopefully you'll get good treatment to go with it.

[ThomCat]

7. I don't know if there IS good treatment.

There is exactly one med on the market for Fibro, and I'm currently trying it. It seems to be helping a bit, but there's a long way to go.

If this doesn't work... :shrug:

So keep your fingers crossed. Lyrica has to work. :)

[Richard Steele]

22. Well, at least getting the proper diagnosis is a step in the right direction, right?

At least you've got a good Doc who's working on the right problem;
that's certainly better news than it might be.

And good luck on your move. I hate moving, personally, but then
the hassle of moving is eventually offset by the whole "being
somewhere new" thing. :)

[ThomCat]

24. I am definitely not looking forward to moving

but I'm looking forward to being there. :)

It's kind of bittersweet though. My nephew has moved in with me, and I really enjoy having him here to help me. He's a starving artist, trying to build a business in fashion consulting, so I am subsidizing his life while he helps me with mine. Now that I've finally got things working, it's time to move. :P

But I can't stay here. No place delivers anything around here, and nobody seems to want to come out to Staten Island to visit. Queens is a much better location for services. The apartment will be much nicer than where I live now. I'll be living with someone just as nice and helpful as my nephew. And he'll be living nearby.

So it'll all work out once I get over the pain and expense of moving.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

8. My dear ThomCat!

I'm glad your news about your medical condition is this good! I'm hoping that you will continue to feel better...

I'm glad too that Silver needs your attention...this is good for you both!

Take care, sweetie...I'm holding the good thoughts for you!


:hug:

[ThomCat]

11. Thank you, Peggy!

:hug:

Silver seems reassured that he's not alone. And me too. :)

Having a diagnosis is very good news.

It's unsettling to find out that my diagnosis comes with a back-load of sexism because it's primarily a woman's syndrom. But it's kind of appropriate that it's the kind of thing I would have. :P

I'll just join the groups that are advocating, and maybe help get the medical establishment to treat women more equitably. I've been doing it, but in an impersonal way. Now I have a personal stake so that can only help fire me up. :)

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

9. oy. queens?

what part?

[ThomCat]

12. Briarwood, Jamaica

Right near the end of Queens Blvd. :)

Oy is right. It's in/near a very heavily Jewish area. It'll be nice to be near some good Kosher restaurants.

[Oeditpus Rex]

10. Queens!

Shea Stadium! :bounce:

[ThomCat]

13. So, when are you coming to visit?

I'll get us some tickets. :)

[Oeditpus Rex]

17. Me...?

In Noo Jork...??



:scared:

[ThomCat]

18. Somehow, we have to get you on a plane or train to visit

us somewhere. If not here, name the place and the time and we'll work something out. :)

:hug:

[Oeditpus Rex]

19. Just so it ain't Noo Jork

Place would eat me alive. :scared:









Edited on accounta :shrug: and :scared: are not the same thing.

[ThomCat]

21. I wouldn't let that happen.

Anyone bothers you I'd run them over with the chair and beat them with my crutches. :P

But I can understand that NYC causes anxiety regardless of what happens. :(

:hug:

[Flaxbee]

14. Hiya, ThomCat

I have a Silver, but she's a girl, and one of the sweetest cats on earth. She trills at me every time I look at her or say her name. I'm glad your Silver is helping you through Gray's death. :hug: One of my beloved boykitties is slowing down and my heart just clenches into a tiny little painful knot whenever I think of his eventual departure from this earth; I can only imagine how sad you must feel.

But, on the other hand, I am SO glad to hear you have a better diagnosis! Hooray! I hope that means real, effective treatment, and soon! I do believe that acupuncture has been very helpful for some fibromyalgia sufferers - not sure if that's even an option for you, treatment-or-insurance-wise, but something perhaps to explore or discuss with your doctor.

And great that you'll have a DUer for a roomie! Finally, someone reliable!

[ThomCat]

15. Hi Flaxbee!

:hi:

I keep wanting to try Acupuncture. My insurance supposedly covers it. But I've heard that they pay so little that nobody will take my insurance. And they only cover 8 visits, max. What good is it if I find something that works and then can't go back? x(

If something works, I want to keep doing it indefinitely. finding something that works, and then having to stop using it, seems to me like it's more cruel than just not finding out that it works.

I have hopes for the Lyrica.

I've been seeing online that Meditation can help. Fybro apparently reacts very strongly to your mental state, and chronic depression is associated with Fybro. Meditation can help with controlling pain and mood. I already meditate a bit to control the pain, but it's been years since I had any training. So I think it's time to go back for more.

[Lyric]

16. Oh gods, the "pressure points" test.

I have fibromyalgia too, and I remember that test all too well. I've been "tender" along my upper arms, ribs, neck, and upper back for years--a simple firm poke could literally bring me to tears, because it leads to this ENORMOUS intense welling pain that won't subside to a bearable level for at least 60 seconds. Needless to say, getting poked in ALL of the trigger spots within a minute of each other was nothing short of torture. :(

I hope the Lyrica works better for you than it did for me. I can offer a small piece of advice that works for *me* to help me sleep less painfully; I put four or five of those foam egg-crate mattress pads on top of our regular mattress and buy a "deep" sheet that's large enough to contain them. If you don't like squishy beds, it probably won't be good for you, but if bed squishiness is cool with you, the foam padding helps *tremendously* to relieve the pain of sleeping on the Ouchy Places. Also, a thick, quality, pillow-top mattress can accomplish the same thing; the best night of sleep I've gotten in recent years was at a Holiday Inn Express hotel on a king-sized Serta mattress with a "soft" 8-inch pillow-top. I really, really want to buy one of those for Home when we can afford it.

:hug:

[ThomCat]

20. I definitely need and use a pillow-top matress.

But the big problem I find is that I need a firm matress because of my back problems. So how do you have a matress that is both firm and soft at the same time. :(

I have to try those memory foam toppers at some point. I've heard good things about those.

It's weird about the pressure points. I don't normally have pain in most of those places, and I didn't expect to have any pain when he poked me there. But at the same time I often have to self-massage the places that I can reach because of tightness and discomfort, so I guess I shouldn't have been surprised. I have been reacting in those places and didn't realize it because it was just discomfort. My real pain is in other places.
:shrug:

There is so much information I still need to find and read. I have a feeling that this is going to be a big learning exprience with a whole lot of moments of "Oh wow, that makes so much sense."

:hug:

[Lyric]

23. I have back problems too.

I badly herniated my L5-S1 spinal disc a few years ago; it left my half-paralyzed and numb down my left leg with nerve root damage, and it took years to heal. I spent 8 months using a walker to get around.

Firm mattresses have always made my back pain worse, not better. I slept on my aunt's orthopedic mattress and couldn't *move* the next day, it hurt so badly. We really need a new mattress/box spring set (mine is soooooo old--think decades, lol) so when we go looking around this fall, hopefully we'll find something that meets my needs. ThinkBlue1966 doesn't care--she's one of those lucky people who can sleep anywhere, any position, any time. We took a Greyhound trip once between Utica, NY and Harrisonburg, VA with stops in Albany, NYC, and DC. I was miserable, because I couldn't sleep in those horrid, cramped Greyhound seats. She snored the whole way, lol.

[ThomCat]

25. She is a very blessed person.

:P

Yes, you're due for a new matress. I wish you a financial windfall to get a top of the line new bed. :)

[Digit]

27. Check out one of the sleep number beds at Select Comfort aka Sleep Number Store

No coils to develop metal fatigue.
They are air chamber beds, and each side has it's own air chamber with 16 air baffles.
They contour to your physique(s) relieving pressure points and supporting the areas that need supporting.
You can change the firmness at a press of a button allowing for day to day variations of your pain level.

Go to an actual store and check out the different models to see which feels best. I would bet you would need a Model 5000 or higher. Once you determine which one feels best, see if your dr will write a prescription saying you need a bed such as this. You may be able to write it off of your taxes....check with your CPA. They are no more expensive than other beds, but last much longer.

I purchased one after I met a woman who had hers for many, many years.
It has done wonders for my arthritis and allows me to finally sleep through the night.
It is so wonderful to be able to make it softer when I am having a flare-up of the arthritis or increase the support when I want to sleep on my back so I have good lumbar support.

Soon, I will be selling my original foundation to get the adjustable foundation, so I can elevate my head and feet and turn on the vibrational massage.

I just wish I had gotten the prescription from my doctor ahead of time....

Anyway, I know how you feel, somewhat, with those pressure points. I also know what it is like not being able to get a good night's rest. It sucks. It wears you down.
I wish there was a magic pill to cure things like fibro and arthritis. I keep dreaming that the doctors will find a solution and I could do things like I always did, but I am doing the best I can in the meantime.

I wish you all the best.

[ThomCat]

28. Thank you

for the awesome information. :)

[IndianaJones]

26. sorry about your cat. nt

[ThomCat]

29. Thank you.

He was far too young. I should have had 10 more years of his company. :(

[TZ]

30. A solid diagnosis is a good thing!

Sounds like things are getting a bit better for you.
So sorry about Gray though....:hug: :cry:

[ThomCat]

41. Hiya!

:hug:

I'm hopeful. I just spent another day without my wheelchair.

I only made it three days, and I'm back to day 1. I don't think I'll make it tomorrow. But every day out of the chair is an accomplishment. I'm definitely hopeful. :)

I'm definitely going to be depressed about Gray for a while. People have noticed that I'm kind of subdued. When I'm home I keep seeing that he's not where he usually was. That's difficult. But I have good memories, good pictures, and I know that this is life. :(

[hippywife]

31. Thanx for catching us all up.

I'm so very sorry about Gray. I know it must have been very upsetting and difficult for you, both emotionally and physically.

I'm also sorry to hear about the fibro. At least it sounds like you are on the right track to getting help. I really do hope they will be able to manage that well for you.

Very cool about the move! Which DUer, or is it strictly on the QT for the moment?

I wish you nothing but well. :hug:

[ThomCat]

42. It has definitely been difficult.

Stress triggers more pain. Probably because stress triggers muscle tension. But then again, maybe stress has a more direct impact on fibro. Regardless, I started out in good shape this morning and I'm in agony now.

But this too shall get better with time.

I'll be moving in with InfoManiac, who almost never posts in the lounge. She's an awesome, wonderful person who I met through meetups. :)

[hippywife]

63. Wonderful!

I've never had the pleasure of conversing with her, because it seems she posts even less than I do. LOL But I trust you as a good judge of character. I hope that all works well for you both.

Wish you didn't have so much to contend with. Seems like it's always the really nice people that get more than their share. All I can say is breath through it, my friend. It only does more damage to stress about a situation we are unable to change. :hug:

[Parche]

32. Hey

One of my good friends in Ft Worth TX has that

I know the pain she is in most of the time
Keep your chin up, things get better

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

:hi:

[ThomCat]

43. I will. I do my best to be stoic and optimistic.

:)

:hug:

[Fire Walk With Me]

33. May all your news be good news.

I'm sorry about Gray. :hug:

[ThomCat]

44. Hi Peake.

:hug:

Thank you. :)

Good news is a nice change.

I appreciate all the good wishes regarding Gray. He was a wonderful cat. He couldn't figure out whether I was supposed to be his mom or his girlfriend. He had relationship confusion, and it was very cute. I miss him.

[DarkTirade]

34. Let's just hope that the right diagnosis leads to the right treatments.

:hug:

And let's hope the shots help with the pain in the long run too.

[ThomCat]

45. I definitely hope.

:)

:hug:
When I finally get to see you I don't want to be in too much pain to give you a bear hug.

[DarkTirade]

59. Let alone the make-out session...

O8)

[ThomCat]

61. Definitely can't forget that.

:*

:loveya:

[easttexaslefty]

35. Best wishes to you.........

:hug:

[ThomCat]

46. Thank you.

:hug:

[fizzgig]

36. i'm glad they've got the diagnosis pinned down

and that it leads to more comfort for you.

i'm sorry again about gray, but i'm glad that you and silver have each other for comfort :hug:

are you still moving to jamaica or is it going to be a different part of queens?

[ThomCat]

47. Briarwood is a small part of Jamaica.

Jamaica is a huge area. :)

New Yorkers have a habit of naming every small area so they can distinguish one neighborhood from the next. Often, the names are of the small towns or villiages that used to be there before the humongous city spread and swallowed everything up.

[Fredda Weinberg]

64. Worse than that, dear ThomCat. I used to be a member of the

community association.

Briarwood doesn't want to be associated with Jamaica, which is much poorer. In fact, they still want their own ZIP ... ain't gonna happen.

But it's a great place to be ... I met every nationality in my apartment building. Where else could I get visits from Jehova's Witnesses on Saturday and Lubavitch on Sunday?

[Gormy Cuss]

37. Queens! Why I never...

have been to that borough. Staten Island either. ;)

I have a friend who had a prompt Fibromyalgia diagnosis only because her mother had it too and she knew enough to tell her primary to test for it when she had symptoms. At least she has Lyrica to help her symptoms.

Poor Silver. I think cats are a bit more freaked out when they don't see their mates die. It's as if they've gone away and may come back.

[ThomCat]

48. Silver seemed to be partying at first.

He had never been separated from his brother, ever, except for one day he spent at the vet. They had their share of rivalries and fighting for dominance, so at first he was very happy to have me and the apartment all to himself.

I think he also knew that Gray was sick, and the normal thing for cats to do is expell or ostracize a sick cat. I think there was some of that going on.

Now he's getting lonely. He clearly misses his brother. :(

[malta blue]

38. That all sounds like things are moving in the right direction

I am so sorry about Gray - I am dealing with the Luna issue today :cry:

And so happy you have a diagnosis that can be dealt with properly :hug:

[ThomCat]

49. I'm very sorry about Luna.

I wish you had a lot longer with her. She looks like a very sweet and happy dog. I'm sure, from your threads, that she's an importatn part of your family. :hug:

[Dangerously Amused]

39. Sweetie. You are always in my thoughts.

Your good news makes me so happy for you, and hopeful for your future.

But the loss of Gray... :cry:

[ThomCat]

50. I think it's a rule:

Nothing good can happen unless something bad happens too. :(

:hug:

[Dangerously Amused]

54. I adore you.

:hug:

[redqueen]

40. SO glad to hear that that doctor is experienced with Fibromyalgia...

my mom has that and it seems to be difficult to find doctors who really understand it even.

Also glad to hear you'll be moving in with a DUer. Cause yeah, that is cool. :)

:hug:

[ThomCat]

52. It is cool, on both counts.

:)

I wish more people could have a pain management doctor as good as mine. And I wish more of us had other really good DUers nearby.

[YellowRubberDuckie]

51. I'm sorry Gray Passed.

:hug:
I'm sorry you have another diagnosis, but at least you know what it is and might be able to manage it.
I saw your pics from the Harry Potter concert. I was so jealous. You looked awesome too. So vibrant and energetic.
I'm sorry it's been forever since we've talked. Hope all is well/getting better. :hug:
Duckie

[ThomCat]

53. I really wish you come come to the Wizard Rock Festival

in September. You would have an awesome time and meet some really wonderful people. :hug:

Those pictures came out really well. Except for that one, that I posted anyway. :)

[u4ic]

55. Oh, Thom...I'm sorry about your kitty

:hug:

I have Fibro. I found acupuncture to be of great help, though it doesn't work for everyone. I'm glad you got diagnosed, and hope you find treatment(s) that help you. :pals:

[ThomCat]

58. I'm glad I finally seem to have an accurate diagnosis too.

It was incredibly unpleasant taking heavy meds that didn't do anything positive. :(

I'm really looking forward to some kind of continuing good news. :)

:hug:

[SPKrazy]

56. Well hang in there Thom

bittersweet news, sorry Gray is gone, Silver is there though.

Fibro is not recognized by a lot of doctors which is very sad.

Strangely alternative treatments have shown good results. Learning relaxation or any type of practice of turning down the autonomic nervous system seems helpful to manage the pain.

Glad your doc is knowledgeable about it.

:hug: :hug:

[ThomCat]

60. You're definitely right about the alternative treatments.

I'm going to refresh my training in meditation. And, if I can swing it, I'm definitely going to try accupressure. :)

Thank you.

:hug:

[KitchenWitch]

57. You have my love Thom!

:hug:

I am in awe of your character and strength. I wish I could be as resilient.

:loveya:

[ThomCat]

62. But you are that resilient.

:hug:

You seem to me to be a very strong, and very strong willed person. :)