The thing about this condition, I’ve learned, is that it is always with me. I can’t forget about it. I can distract myself with work or reading or TV (the new season of Longmire on Netflix is proving especially good for this), but I can’t forget. This has been slightly exhausting, and I’m hoping that I’ll get more accustomed to living with it.
I’ve been feeling pretty OK. Had some chest discomfort (I wouldn’t call it pain), but Dr. Solls (in Boston; he’s the amazing doc who referred me to Dr. Desai) said some muscle soreness is normal. He suggested I get some compression socks, so I did…pictures to follow because I found ones with patterns. I’m supposed to keep an eye on my ankles (yes, I’m now staring at my ankles) to be sure they don’t swell inconsistently, which would be an indicator of a blood clot.
Update: I finally decided to measure my ankles. Their circumferences were identical.
I’m still angry. Getting messages (and mail! and calls!) helps. Next week Wednesday, we’re driving to Raleigh for Bouchercon, and I’m really looking forward to that. I really am going to have to take it easy (truth be told, I thought I was just saying that before), but that’s OK.
Thank you for reading.
I’m happy u are writing about this. It’s therapeutic for you a bit I’m sure, but it is for me as well. I want to know how you are feeling and doing and this is it. Thank you. Wear those sexy patterned compression stockings… Especially driving more than 5 minutes 👍🏼😜ankle pumps and leg squeezing stockings are the way to roll 😊😊😊
It is helpful for me…especially, somehow, to know people are reading it. I think it’s like that, “a problem shared is half a problem” thing, you know? And I’m gonna be ALL about he compression stockings!!
Take it easy! Can’t wait to see the compression socks (I’ll call them that..stockings is such an old fashioned term, unless you’re talking fishnet). I’ve only seen the usual compression ones, so glad you found some cute ones. It’s a distraction. See you soon. Hugs
I don’t know if this will work for you, Erin, but it works for some faced with a “condition.” Think of it as a ring you always wear. Yes it’s there, thoughin time you’ll forget it’s there, until something reminds you of it…making you think about it for a bit…but then it fades back into the background as you go about your life.
Yes, and that’s been my experience for sure with my two other chronic conditions for sure. This one, though, hasn’t faded yet at all. Part of it, I suppose, is because I can feel it (literally) all the time.
I’m so glad that you have good doctors who are able and willing to answer your questions and quell your concerns, Erin. The socks sound very cool, and I love that you’re making that requirement a fun one. Laughter truly is the best medicine. xxoo
Hi, Erin — As the pope once said, “Stay strong” — though I don’t think he expected those words to set off a publicity firestorm. I will see you later this week. Enjoy the drive.
No kidding! Particularly since the words either weren’t actually delivered at all or were part of a standard greeting 😉
I’m finally taking that step to become an organ donor.
Oh, Becky, I can’t thank you enough. My own experience aside, I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many people over the years to whom this has made such an amazing difference.