Grammie's Double Whammy

I am married to an incredible human being. I know. He's my husband and you would expect me to say that, right? Well,you have no idea...Steve has supported my hopes and dreams since before he married me. I am still in awe of his commitment to all that makes Ellie happy... Support is an extraordinary process. A living,breathing and consistent example of love and dedication. I certainly consider it as important as any therapy or remedy I may utilize to manage and live with Depression, Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis. Perhaps even more important. When I was diagnosed with Clinical Depression at 30 years old, it was probably not a surprise for Steve. He had been living with my undiagnosed monster for eleven years. Thus began a journey of meds and therapy he did not sign up for. Still...he  loved me. As I drowned in sorrow after a miscarriage on the heels of this diagnosis, Steve stayed right next to me. He just knew it was him, not words,I needed. I was a...

One week before my third Remicade infusion, I went to see my Rhuematoligist.I wanted to ask him some questions about my Psoriatic Arthritis,and the length of time I may have to wait until the infusions began to work. I explained that I was experiencing more pain in new places, including my left elbow, arm and shoulder. The pain was chronic and overwhelming and I couldn't understand why I was getting worse. After an extensive overview of all my symptoms, my doctor examined all of my joints, while asking about the specifics along the way. He touched certain points on my neck and back that just about sent me through the roof! This was a bit alarming to me. Although I had been experiencing overall pain and malaise, I was stunned to realize those certain points were so painful. Folding his arms, Dr. Patel stepped back and paused. His diagnosis saturated my being with a cloak of misunderstanding. Fibromyalga. What? How is that possible? I already have two autoimmune diseases that ...

Today is infusion day. Remicade. A biologic drug that is supposed to ultimately stop pain and joint damage. We shall see. Thus far I have used methotrexate and Humira injections to no avail. I began Remicade in December of 2014, however my therapy was stalled by viruses I had in January. So, now we begin again. Hopefully I will be able to maintain a schedule of Remicade infusions that will allow the drug to actually work. Here's why I want it to. It has been a difficult winter. December and January (even into February) are cold dark months. There is less sunshine. The cold envelops a body in such a way that people with normal joints, tendons, and ligaments can feel stiff and uncomfortable. Add psoriatic arthritis, or any autoimmune disease for that matter, sprinkle in clinical depression, and you have a mixture of ingredients that whip up an unsavory recipe. I have felt so isolated. Blogging and posting on Facebook is a constant reminder, however, that I am NOT alone. Feedback fr...