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Michele's MonSter-August Updates

August 9,2000-Went to the neurologist today and was
taken off the Copaxone Injections (Sub Q). He feels it might have
contributed to the kidney problems and possible blood pressure
problems too. Also said the MS is Secondary Progressive.
Due to increased headaches, vision problems, fatigue, and back\neck
pain, he is ordering another MRI (of the brain). He's also
Speech Therapy as the words are slurring more and more.
He is putting me on Avonex (IM injections) to see
how that works along with a prescription to help
with the fatigue. I have also been given Ultram for the
headaches. Iam also to see an orthopedic dr. for a possible
back\neck brace to give the back and neck
more support. Left leg brace is also needed due
to walking difficulties. I keep telling myself I can
beat this, but some days I begin to wonder. Starting anti-depression
meds also as the worse things get, the more depressed I get.
Supposed to see Neurologist in 6 weeks for followup.

August 14Went to the pharmacy and picked up Avonex. Holy catfish
batgirl! The needles are huge compaired to what Iam used to.
(from 27 G to 23g 1 1\4) Being the "wuss" that Iam\haha,I dont
think Iam going to have to worry bout these ones hurting
because as soon as I see it loaded and ready to go, I'll
probably pass out!! lol I started Speech Therapy today
and feel totally stupid. They give you a list of questions
on a first grade level to test simple memory things
ugh and I think I flunked. Ive added a new
page to discuss some of these problems for people with
the MonSter. I hadn't a clue as to the actual reason
why so many things were happening to me other to
blame the MS. Now I know the causes of such things and Iam posting
them for others who are going through the "confusion fog"
but not sure why.Main goals are memory helpers, speech slurring,
and swallowing simple things like food and saliva.
(Tired of choking all the time, especially at
night when it can be so frightening). Will update this frequently
to keep others informed on the therapy aspects of the treatment.

August 25: Well its been 2 weeks of Avonex injections and I must say
the "flu-like" side effects are definately not wonderful. High fevers,
muscle aches ontop of muscles that already ache, and the firey
eyes are less then wonderful but guess what? haa!
The needles arent so bad after you get used to em! (I dont look!)
My Mom, who is an R.N. gave my first shots, so being the "pro"
that she is, it wasnt too bad. (Pays to have practice I think!)
On the other hand, my poor husband gave me my first one (from him)
last night and I dont know who shook more!!
After using sub-q's, he took a look at the 23 g and
said, Meesh? If this hurts, Iam like real sorry ahead of time!
He did fine Im happy to say once he figured out where
the siadic(sp) nerve was to avoid, and and how to
gauge around hip bones.

I have decided to put my speech on hold for now until the
side effects from the shots start to wear off. Also,flunking
elementary school questions wasnt doing much for my self-esteem.
Guess it was kinda like a "reality" time for me. I mean,
I know Iam experiencing memory loss and stuff, just
dont need to be reminded how bad right now. So back I go
in a few weeks. Waiting for the test results on the MRI I took
but they feel it has now hit the central cortex of the brain.
Good news is, atleast they found it??? haha(my brain)
Will update this more as I find things out. ~Peace~

***Thank you for the prayers etc =0) They mean alot
to my family and I. Huggggs

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