It’s been three MONTHS since my last update! On June 21, 2023, I posted Life’s Journey #16 – New Meds / New Challenges to share with you my choice to try a new drug for my autoimmune disease. I can’t believe it has been that long! Today was my first appointment with my doctor after making the change.
The GOOD NEWS!
- My bloodwork is good!
- My blisters are smaller and fewer overall!
- I am seeing improvement!!
The NOT-SO-GOOD NEWS!
- I am experiencing joint pain…knees, hips, hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. So much so that I am not able to do normal activities such as kayaking, jogging, mowing the yard (oh, darn), and even opening cans and jars!
- I have to stop the drug for one month to determine if the joint pain is related to the drug.
- I may have relapses during this break on the drug.
- If it is not due to the drug then I have to see another specialist to determine if I have developed another autoimmune malady.
Our decision to stop the drug for one month brings mixed emotions for me. It is disappointing because I feel like I am gradually getting better by being on it. My blisters are fewer and smaller than they have been up to this point. BUT I am encouraged that I have a doctor that is cautious and concerned for my overall well-being. She does NOT want to trade one area of pain with another area of pain. She feels this is our best choice to truly determine if the two are related.
My WIN in this TRIAL: We have a path forward!
- Stop for one month.
- If pain subsides, then we switch drugs.
- If pain remains, then we schedule appointment with a Rheumatologist for additional evaluation.
I am so grateful for the support of my family, my doctor, my friends, and especially my faith that God has this in His control. He knows what I am going through, and He knows what is ahead for me to learn, to be patient, and to grow in this experience.
Thank you, Jesus, for your love and guidance and strength in the midst of what is unknown for me, BUT clearly known by you. I trust you to bring me through this! Thank you for the Truth of your Word from Psalms:
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
(Psalm 103:2-5, NLT)
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!
Amen, Amen!
I would love to support you, my Sweet Friend, with any trials you may be having. Please share in the Comments below how I may best pray for you. If you are not comfortable sharing publicly, then you may email me at stacy@stacyturley.com.
Hugs and blessings,
Stacy
My prayers are with you.
Thank you, Susan. I am honored and grateful for your prayers. Life is a journey and this is a journey I would like to walk with grace and trust in God. Your prayers help me do that as it reminds me that I am not alone! Thank you! How may I best pray for you? Hugs and blessings, Stacy