a year overdue

a pathetic wimp

That's exactly what I've felt like since I started back to work. I was so excited to get to go back to a classroom. Each day I am thrilled for the gift of getting to work with each of these wonderful kids. I missed it so much when I had to go on medical leave last year and honestly didn't know if I'd get to go back. I am thankful for each day of my life.

It has been harder than I ever imagined though. I feel like I am fighting with my body to get through the day. It's become more difficult as the year has gone on. It's been so hard to understand because my lungs have improved soooooo much. Why have I been so exhausted? Why am I such a pathetic wimp?

Dr. Olson referred me to hematologist, Dr. Stabler at University Hospital for my iron deficiency and low blood counts. The veil was lifted as Dr. Stabler matter-of-factly explained everything at my appointment. It's my blood's fault! I'm apparently about FIVE PINTS low on blood. My body has been fighting this blood battle for a year now and I've finally been introduced to a doctor who is ready to help me. She said she can't believe I'm functioning and working on a daily basis. I can't explain how much better this made me feel. I've been beating myself up thinking I'm just puny! The best part is that this doctor not only recognized my problem, but she is determined to reverse it. Yay for good news!

I'm scheduled for five IV iron infusion sessions at the University Infusion Center. I can't wait to feel the positive results! I mean seriously, this is only a year overdue.....   ;)

don't overlook the positives

I know I've had other, bizarre things going on with my health that they say are connected to my Churg Strauss, but I must acknowledge some great news!

My respiratory health has been, dare I say it, WONDERFUL. :) 

It's true! I've been breathing and I have NOT been taken down with horrible infections this fall. Life is good, very good, and getting even better!

Happy Fall!

catching my balance

It's taken some time for the new medicine to kick in and get me back on track. I've been one lucky girl to have someone in this big city who cares about me.

a recovery meal made just for me

rebuilding strength is always easier with loyal guard

Catching my balance has been harder than I wanted it to be. It seems that even simple solutions can take time. In my appointment today with Dr. Fenster he was confident that this medication will be the answer. He said it seemed the syncope and dizziness were being caused by a combination of complications. I have POTS (posterior orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), very low blood pressure, and a problem with the flow of blood from my heart to my brain that is probably all connected to the Churg Strauss and vasculitis. Unfortunately, he said that once POTS is this obvious it's unlikely it will ever completely go away. His hope is that the medicine will keep me from fainting but said I will most likely be dealing with some presence of dizziness for now on. Honestly, I'll still take this as a win. Passing out is pretty awful for me and those around me.