An Apology, A Thank you and A Big Hug to Everyone

[peeweelovesbooks]

Hi guys!

Rolando contacted me the other day and mentioned that some people on the OB had been asking where I have been.

As I mentioned to Rolando, I have been having chronic pain for a while and it's worsened since November. I was finally diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and my MD is taking a while to decide what is the best course of treatment for me.

In the meantime, I've been barely able to make it to work, much less go online much. I am in constant pain, especially so in my hands, wrists and shoulders, so it's a struggle to go to work (I am a transactional attorney so I'm on the computer all day long). It's been a very trying time for me and I hope that whatever treatment my MD chooses will work--some days I don't think I'm going to make it. I pass my days having to choose which things I am able to do with my hands, and being online often does not make the cut.

First, an apology: I gave away some orchids for my birthday back in November, but was never able to send them. I apologize to everyone on the thread, and to everryone on the OB. I still have everyone's addresses and the orchids are waiting to be sent out as soon as the spring starts. Again, I apologize if it seemed that I flaked out; that was never my intention. The orchids will go out as soon as the weather is ok.

Second, a big thank you. I was actually shocked when Rolando called me. Truthfully, I'm not used to people noticing me or caring (IRL and especially online), and well, it came as a shock to me that anyone had noticed my absence, much less people I've never met. I am humbled by all of you and I send each and every one who wondered where I was my deepest gratitude.

I hope that once my treatment starts (and hopefully works) I am going to be able to come back and be a part of this wonderful community once again.

Thank you so much.

Maria.

[Lana]

I hope with the treatment you'll be able to forget your pain soon. Wishing you the best!

[fotofashion]

Be verrrry careful with the meds they are pushing for RA these days. Especially think several times if your doctor wants to give you Methotrexate. It is normally given together with the Biologicals. Read the "cautions" very carefully. I did and they were enough to scare me into never even considering using them. Then....I found out I don't have RA. Methotrexate put me in the hospital three times and all for nothing. I shouldn't have taken it in the first place. I do hope you can find something that will not cause you more harm than good. I could on for several paragraphs on this subject.
Beverly A.

[trdyl]

No need to apologize. It is good to know that you are still alive and kicking. One of my sisters went through RA as a child but she is getting along better now. Hope you get to feeling better as soon as possible. Many of us love your third person comments.

[Connie Star]

We missed you!

I'm sorry to hear about the diagnosis. There are a lot of powerful medications available and I bet there are some good rheumatologists in Miami. Just keep the image of your beautiful flowers in mind.

[bellini girl]

What an awesome group of people, who says you have to "know" people personally to worry about them. Orchid board members, you're the best, you rock.

[Call_Me_Bob]

Very good to hear from you!! We are all very glad that ms Maria is doing okay. Praying for your hands! I hope the treatment works!

Hope to see you here once your hands get better big hugs from me and all my chids!!!


You can call me Bob

[Eyebabe]

Maria,

I am sorry to hear about your illness but I want you to know that I'm thinking of you and sending positive thoughts your way <3
I am confident now that you have a proper diagnosis, you will begin to get proper treatment and feel better.
Chronic pain is miserable and wears on one's spirits; but Connie is correct in that today's medications for RA are powerful and effective.
I hope your heart is full of hope and good feelings that you DO have people noticing AND caring!

PS. I have also been very busy and mostly off the boards lately but I checked today and there was your post and I noticed <3

[Becca]

Hi Maria! Thanks for stopping by and saying hi when it is so painful for you to do! I'm really sorry to hear of the pain you are in and hope your MD can do something about it soon! And no need to apologize, it's not just the orchids we are here for, we are a community here, like one big family! Hope you get to feeling better soon!

[Gin]

Good to hear from you . I also noticed your absence . Gin