Why me?

Why me??? It's something I ask myself everyday. Why did MS come to me? I like to think that it has come to me so that I can educate and aware others about the disease and really make a difference... but then I wonder is that even a good enough reason? There isn't a good reason as to why MS has come to me... and after years and years of research... they are still stumped. I mean, it's not like I'm effected my noticeable "progression" everyday... but I am effected by the symptoms. Every morning when I take my meds, it's like good morning MS, how are you today? Are you gonna kick my butt... or are you gonna take it easy???

Growing up I was such an athletic person... always active and doing things and now I just can't. I always tried something ya know... before I said I COULDN'T do it... but now I just already know... that I can't. I have also been gaining weight because I CAN'T do the things I used to do... I CAN'T be as active as I was... and if ONE more person tells me that there is this "diet" that's going to "fix" me, I'm going to reach back and slap them.... If a "diet" could fix my MS.... then a lot of us living with MS wouldn't be reminded of our MS every single freaking day.

I ate healthy... stayed active... look where that got me?! Do I need to "try" and do more... yeah... do I want to... No. Because I know what will happen and what I will feel when I DO try and do MORE. I can't even stand to fold laundry for goodness sakes... Sorry that this is a "pity me post" but I'm tired of everyone's "fix me" ideas... just shut up. Do I want to lose weight... yes... is working my body out like I used to worth it... No. Sorry, but doing my work outs that I used to do... is not worth the consequences I will pay, after it's all said and done.

Nobody knows what I'm feeling... or what I have to go through on a daily basis... so I'de really appreciate it, if everyone's "advice" would have a mute button... so I don't slap them. Sometimes I wish that these people could feel HALF of what I do on a daily basis... then tell me all your advice again and see how much you like it. I'm 24 years old and I feel a lot older. I understand that it could be worse... but I still ask, why me?? I have too much crap I've gotta do and too many people & things I have to take care of to deal with MS. When I went to the doctor before I was diagnosed because my face was numb... and I had my MRI... I thought they were going to tell me I had a pinched nerve or something.. talk about a slap in the face.. or punch in the gut.

Everyone always tells me that my MS is different than others... especially at my age... my MS just won't let up... it's like... when people ask me, "how do you feel today".. oh  I'm fine... when honestly... things don't really get any better. I still have the constant pain, I'm still constantly forgetting things, I'm still constantly tired... but I don't want to say that, cause then I'm just "whining". Seriously, I think I need a slap a stupid button. I'm tired of sitting here relying on doctors to tell me what to do when THEY don't even know what I'm going through... they only "know" through text books... not actual experience with the disease.

I know as I'm typing this a lot of people are going to feel sorry for me, and that's cool... but don't tell me your sorry... DO something about it... raise awareness.. support me in my fight against MS... do something besides say, "I'm sorry", cause sorry doesn't cut it. And I know that a lot of people reading this that have the disease, you're just sitting there saying to yourself... "Damn, she hit it dead on with this post." And you're damn right I did.

What people don't realize is those with MS, we DONT KNOW what our MS is actually doing, unless we have an MRI... We don't know if we are progressing... because just cause we are in a "flare".. it doesn't mean it's a NEW flare... or it could be a pseudo flare.. or it could be or symptoms acting up... I just honestly think that people need to do their homework on MS before they sit here and try and voice their opinions. Tell ya what, if you are reading this and you don't have MS... put those kitchen gloves on and then put on a button down shirt and try and button it.... or walk around w/ one swimming flipper on... spin around in circles then try and walk "normally"... this is just a ounce of what we have to deal with... this isn't the fatigue, the spasms, the nerve pain, the vision, the weakness, the urinary issues, the sleeping issues, the walking... the hand coordination...etc. etc. etc.

Okay, I think I'm done w/ my vent...

xoxoxo
Ashley

Very accomplished but hurting...

Well, it's taken me all week... but my house is ALMOST all the way clean. I feel very accomplished... but hurting at the same time... I never would of imagined back in the day that cleaning my house would be such a chore. What used to take me one day... now takes a week. So by the time the whole house has been cleaned... there is a mess somewhere, usually the boys room.

I'm glad I have a easy cleaning machine... instead of a broom and mop, I got this hoover multi-floor cleaner... it vacuums, mops and dries... AMAZING. This way, I don't slip on a wet floor. All I really have left to do is clean off my desk & clean off the kitchen bar... but that can wait for now... because I'm having a hard time gripping objects & I really don't want to grip something glass off of the kitchen bar and it break all over the floor.

James did a lot outside... since it's finally nice outside for him to do it. I miss doing outside work, but what can you do. He has been talking about making ramps for the door ways in to the house, so I can stop tripping over the stump, that would be a relief. Stupid feet not wanting to do what I tell them to do. Very frustrating when my body betrays me like that.

I'm probably going to make it an early night to night since I'm hurting real bad... I shouldn't of cleaned like I did... but I didn't realize I would be paying for it like this... even when I paced myself cleaning. The boys are SOOOO ready to go back to school... they are asking me every night "Do I go to school in the morning?" Good thing is next week I can say YESSSSS!

Tomorrow I thought my father-in-law was off work, but I guess he isn't. So it looks like I'm taking the kids with me to go get all my medical records from my neuro and eye doctor. I told them if they cleaned their room today that I would take them to play at chik-fil-a ... so we are going to make a stop there after I get all of my records. Then they can play while I go through all the paperwork.

My right hand is numb right now from over doing it I guess. Which isn't fun, since I'm right handed. Thank the lord for speech recognition programs. I think I wouldn't be able to do anything on the computer if it wasn't for that thing. Gotta love where technology has taken us.

Well, it's time for my assisted shower time...

xoxoxo
Ashley

Boys got me sick...

The boys in their new chairs Christmas morning.

Well, my oldest son was sick w/ a stomach bug... he then shared it with his little brother, who so graciously shared with me. I've been very fatigued lately & out of commission from the stomach bug. That's why I haven't posted in a while. We had a great Christmas though... the boys loved everything that they got.

James stayed home from work today to take care of me & the boys. The boys are better, but I can't take care of them w/ the shape I'm in. The boys are already asleep, so I'm loving this peace and quiet. I've been going through all the medical records I have to send to my lawyer... I also called my new neuro's office to get my records from them & my vision doctor. So I will be getting all of that soon & sending it all in to my lawyer.

I got a heater for outside for Christmas from my mom & I'm loving it... I'm all warm and cozy. James invited people over for New Years Eve so he has been cleaning a lot today outside and in. Probably do more tomorrow but I haven't been much help.

I did get all my laundry done yesterday though, so that's a good thing. Today, I don't even have the energy to take a shower, but I feel gross and I know I need to take one. I will probably have James help me with that in a little bit. I hate that I have to depend on him for everything but I know he would rather me ask then me hurt myself.

The news said we are supposed to be up in to the 70's on New Years.... woo hoo. I don't mind it being in the 70's, but I wish the weather would just level out already. It's killing me going on this roller coaster ride of weather change. Can't really control mother nature though. At least it's not 120 outside like this summer... I couldn't even move a muscle with it being that hot.

I know the boys are ready to go back to school & I'm ready for them to go back as well. It's not wet outside anymore, so hopefully they can go outside with James tomorrow and run out some of their energy... instead of taking it out on the house lol

I really wish I would win the lottery or something so I could afford a maid. I can't even clean my house anymore... it's so pathetic. But remember, according to Social Security I'm supposed to be able to work... it's bullshit, if you ask me.

I'm hoping tomorrow will be a better day & that I feel better so I can get out of bed. Time for me to get my "helper" aka James to help me take a shower and get me in bed.

xoxoxo
Ashley

Starting Tysabri Soon

Me & James... He is my rock.

Okay, this past Thursday I went to see my neurologist and I SAW the lab results of me being JCV negative!! I saw the nurse practitioner & she went over all of the Tysabri information (risks & benefits). The comments I've had on my blog are amazing... and very reassuring, for those who are on Tysabri. The nurse practitioner told me that someone will be contacting me soon w/ a "touch" number & my Dr's office will be getting it approved my insurance in the mean time.

They said it would take about 2 to 3 weeks w/ the holidays being here. So I'm hoping that the time goes by fast because I want to get on a medication. They told me I had to be off of Avonex for two weeks before starting Tysabri... but that's not an issue because I haven't taken it the whole month of December. I'm excited to begin this path of treatment & hopefully have some improvement on everything I've been having issues with.

I still can't believe it's Christmas Eve... I'm excited & so are the kids. Jason was up all night though, with food poisoning... but he is doing much better now & has slept most of the day. Tonight we are going to James's Aunt's house for a Christmas Eve gathering... James is at work right now but he is having someone cover his shift for like 3 hours for him to come to the gathering & see family that we don't see that often.

My mom is here spending Christmas with us... which I'm really excited about! I love it when she is here & helps me with things around the house & the kids... though I feel bad that she does so much. I tried to do the laundry & clean the house before she got here, so she didn't have to do that.... but you know mothers. lol

I'm upset that part of James's present got lost by Fed Ex... so I won't get the other part to his deer feeder till next week. I'm wondering what I'm getting.... I can't wait to see it. My dad & step-mom and step-niece came up yesterday to do our Christmas & for me to give my dad his birthday present as well... cause his birthday is the 2nd of January -- and I probably won't see him then.

I've been really fatigued lately, and I don't really know why. I don't know if it's the weather, my MS, stress... or all combined... who knows right? I've been setting up alarms on my phone to help me remember things... like a med reminder and all that. Because when James is at work... I don't have someone here to remind me to take my medication.

James went to the Rec Center yesterday and signed us up for a membership so that I can go up there and do some work outs that I learned at physical therapy. My right side has been weak lately, and my neuro's practitioner suggested I do physical therapy if I don't improve soon... but I'de like to try and do it on my own.. So we will see how that goes.

Well, it's time to start getting ready for the gathering tonight... everyone have a Happy Holidays!

xoxoxo
Ashley

News Release about JCV & Tysabri

Tysabri Talk Tomorrow

Well, tomorrow at 11 I go to my neuro's office to talk about Tysabri -- and if I agree to it, then we will plan my first infusion. I'm pretty dead set on doing Tysabri... I've done a lot of research... and being JCV negative.... I really don't have any worries about it. So about the mess up w/ the tests... they ran it wrong the first time & that's the results I was sent to my phone. My neuro called the lab and had them run it the RIGHT way, not once but twice... and it came back negative.

I'm just a bit worried for the fact that I'm not on any medication right now... and I'm sick. So I know my immune system is firing up trying to fight off whatever it is that I have. If I don't feel better by tomorrow I'm going to call my PCP and schedule a appointment cause I can't be sick, especially at Christmas. I laid around a lot yesterday & today because my body just doesn't want to move right now... not only from me being sick... but because of the constant weather change we are having here in Texas.

I went to the store the other day & I used my handicapped parking pass because I was having a really tough time walking & again I get snide comments about me using my "grandmas parking pass".... like really, I don't use it unless I absolutely need it... and whenever I do use it, I get snide comments! Give me a freaking break already... Just because I'm young -- doesn't always mean I'm in perfect health, morons.

I've been keeping my mind off of everything lately with the volunteering I do with MSWorld... but I still can't ignore everything that is going on w/ me right now. I'm looking forward to Christmas though... James and I have everything wrapped  (he had to do a lot of the wrapping, cause my hands wouldn't let me) God love him!

James is taking me to my neuro appointment in the morning & then we are going to the store to get me some feel good food lol. Yesterday was a tough day at the house... it was the 4 yr anniversary of my mother-in-law passing away. It's so hard... I miss her so much.

Oh, I didn't go my urologist appointment yesterday -- I have to reschedule, because I could barely even move I felt so bad. So, I will be calling tomorrow to re-schedule that appointment. I really wish I could of gone, but what can ya do... when you can't move, you can't move.

I feel like a crappy mom -- my kids have been living off of take-out lately because I can't get up to make them something to eat. This being sick thing is draining me and making things even harder than they were before I was sick. But this too, shall pass.

Well, I'm going to call it an early night, I will update everyone tomorrow about my appointment w/ my neuro.

xoxoxo
Ashley

False Alarm

So.. my neuro's nurse practitioner called this morning. She said my results came back from the lab & i'm JCV NEGATIVE!
I almost jumped out of my seat I was so freakin excited. Apparently the labs sent me the test results that they had messed up on & my neuros office made them re-do it twice for a clear answer. So I go in to see my nurse practitioner on Thursday morning to sign the consent paper & get things set up to start Tysabri.

Tomorrow morning I have my DR's appointment with the urologist, that's a relief. I feel like I'm finally getting on the right track of things & things will get better soon. I still haven't been taking my Avonex -- which is a good thing in a way, because I need to clean my system out before getting on Tysabri.

On a less positive note -- I'm sick :( My oldest, Jason was sick who shared w/ me and luke. Luke isn't bad.. just the sniffles... Me on the other hand is a different story. I have been running a fever and have the sore throat & my whole body hurts from this weather change we're having. I feel like I've been run over by a train to be quiet honest with you.

I'm still excited about the good news... I was real down when I had read that first report saying I was JC positive... because I had already kinda planned in my head my future of being on Tysabri. Tomorrow I'm going to go through all of my records and scan and e-mail all the "vital" information to my lawyer.

Well, I just wanted to update everyone on the good news that I'm JCV NEGATIVEEEEE!!!!!!!!

Time for some meds & bed..

xoxoxo
Ashley

Tested Positive

Well, my phone alerted me earlier that my lab results came in. I had my mom read it for me... and I tested positive for the JC Virus... I guess, in the back of my head I was thinking that it was going to come back negative & I wouldn't have to think about the complications Tysabri could cause... but now that's sometime I have to take in to deep consideration. I'm of course, going to talk to my neuro about it.

I'm thinking that sense I've ONLY been on Avonex... that I'de like to try something else besides Tysabri first, unless my neuro thinks that my MS is too progressive for another drug besides Tysabri. I'de probably look into Copaxone, if I do have the choice. I've heard wonderful things about Copaxone... even though I know it's every day, at least I wouldn't have the change of contracting PML.

Ugh, this feels like being diagnosed all over again, except for the fact that my diagnosing neuro didn't really tell me my options of medication... he just handed me the intro packet to Avonex. So, I guess it's time to really do some research and look at my options.

On another note, Jason (my oldest son) is sick.... and now I'm not feeling well.. It's like GREATTT I'm not on Avonex... so I guess I can just hope and pray that I don't have yet ANOTHER relapse. Because that would just plain suck.

On a GOOD note, tomorrow is my 6 year wedding anniversary, so I don't know what we're doing exactly... but James has something planned up his sleeve. I've been in a lot of pain lately, I don't know if it's cause of the weather change we just had or what, but I feel like crap. Good thing is, I got almost all of the Christmas presents wrapped/bagged. Now I just have to remember what I did with a gift card I bough... cause I can't find it anywhere... Stupid MS. I probably put it somewhere, where I wouldn't forget it... UGH!

Well, I'm gonna go hang out w/ James by the fire :)

xoxoxo
Ashley

Bad Day

Okay, tonight post is going to be a really big vent session. I really feel like my disability is not being taken seriously by the Social Security Administration. I am 24 years old… Why would I want to be disabled? I didn't ask for this, and who are they to say if I'm able to work or not. They don't live my life everyday… They don't know the pain I experience, not just physical but mental. They don't know the strain it's put on not just myself but my family. No one will understand how I feel until they walk a day in my shoes, and I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

Multiple sclerosis has change my life and the way I live it every day. Here are some of the I cannots: I cannot cook anymore, I cannot clean anymore, and cannot go to school anymore, I can barely type, I can't remember anything, I can't walk for long period of time, I can't mow the yard, I can't take care of the chickens, I can barely keep up with the kids, I can go out with my friends, I'm 24 years old… And I have to wear a panty liner in case I cough or sneeze. In order to make it to the day, I have to take over 10 pills. Taking the medication eases the pain but it never goes away.

I can't explain how upsetting it is prove to someone that I've been defeated. Right now I vent my feelings using this speech recognition program because my hands won't let me type. I don't want anyone's pity, I don't anyone sorry, this is just the ugly truth. I don't want this, I didn't ask for this.

It really upset me, when I heard that someone my age was on disability for being bipolar but yet that didn't physically limit them. I am physically limited and mentally. I not only have multiple sclerosis, I have degenerative disk disease and spinal stenosis and depression but yet the cannots I have talked about are not being taken seriously in my case.

I can't explain the embarrassment I have when I'm talking to someone and I stop in midsentence because I can't say what I want to say. My cognitive issues have been getting worse… It's hard and embarrassing and hurtful. My body has betrayed me. Everything I had planned in life is no longer going to happen and that's something I'm going to have to live with.

"You can do anything you put your mind to"… Who the hell came up with that??? It's hard to prove how I'm affected by multiple sclerosis when I don't want to face it every day, ignoring how I am affected it easier sometimes.

I can't even take shower standing up. I am constantly dropping things. I don't like to show how multiple sclerosis has affected me because I feel like I'm letting it win. Don't get me wrong, I do believe I'm a strong person… But every strong person has their weakness, every strong person have their moments, every rock has a few cracks.

I can't run and play at the park with my kids, I can cook things just not the meal that I used to. Here I thought I was doing everything right… Where did I go wrong??? I understand it could be worse but yet it could be better. I do have friends just not ones that I can see because they live so far away. Anyone I had near me has forgotten about me because I have multiple sclerosis and I guess they think I'm contagious.

I'm trying to make the best of the bad situation, doesn't everyone? Everyone has their low times, and this is mine. I wish I could wake up in the morning and this would be a bad nightmare. They say "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" I am stronger but I do have my faults I do have my weak moments and I am not perfect. I'm finally coming to the realization that I might just be stuck this way and hopefully not get worse. I'm hoping that they find a cure in my lifetime, because I have a long line to live.

xoxoxo

Ashley

Bring Me To Life by Evanescence

Nasty Weather=Nasty Mood

I don't know what it is... but when it's a gloomy day w/ the weather... my mood copies it. I just want to sleep all day long with the weather like this (muggy & rainy) but I can't cause Luke is home today. Maybe I will get lucky and he will take a nap with me. I can hope, right? 

I called the lawyer yesterday & they told me to scan & send them information from my records that will be viable to my case. So, I think that's going to be my "job" today. I got a lot of wrapping done last night, thank goodness! That's something I don't have to worry about. I still have to go to WalMart and pick up some things I ordered online. It's just getting the energy to get out and do it. I might wait for my father-in-law to get home, so I can go without the kids. Taking them to WalMart is always not a good thing because they always end up wanting, something! 

My vision has been acting weird lately. My right eye keeps getting fuzzy and it's really annoying. I cleaned up the house yesterday, just for it to get all nasty again from the dogs coming inside with all their mud. I wish it would clear up a little outside so I could get some work done outside, even though I should probably just rest like my body wants me to. 

The constant weather change is draining to my body. Not only does it irritate my MS, but I also have arthritis. I'm glad I went and got a massage yesterday, at least that relaxed me a little bit. James went hunting for the week & I really wish he was home already. I don't like it when he is gone... hard for me to sleep without him. Our 6 year anniversary is on Saturday & I have no idea what we are doing... but he has something up his sleeve. I don't like surprises. lol

I guess lately, I've just been feeling a little down. I feel like I've been betrayed by my own body. It's like, yeah being betrayed my someone you care about hurts... but your own body... You're supposed to be able to rely on your own body. My foot drop has been on and off with the constant weather change & the stress I've been under. I feel like a weight has been lifted off of me, now that I'm done w/ school... but it's still the Holidays & that's always stressful. 

It's like, I have so much stuff that I WANT to do... but there is only so much I CAN do... I really don't want to piss off my body and pay for it the next day. I wish Luke was in school full-time so that I could get things done that I want... without having to worry about taking care of him the whole time. I was going to put together their Christmas Bags for school, but he would just want to play with it all, if I got it out. 

So, it looks like we are going to have a movie day and relax until my father-in-law gets home, so that I can run some errands and have some "alone" time. lol 

I'll check in later.. 

xoxoxo

Ashley

When It Rains by Eli Young Band

Busy Weekend!

Okay, sorry I haven't posted in a while. I've been really busy... but the good news is, I took my last final today! So I'm officially starting my break from school! I got pretty much all of my Christmas decorations up, I know I'm a slacker... but hey at least I did it. Tomorrow I get some peace & quiet w/ no school to worry about & the kids will be at school! I might just go get me a massage because my spasticity has been a killer lately.

My dad came up w/ my step mom and cousin on Saturday... that was fun! He brought me a huge bedframe and a water bed that has a heater. So I'm excited about all of that. Sunday we ran errands like crazy and finished up all of our Christmas shopping... it never ends. I really need to start wrapping presents, maybe that's something I'll do tomorrow with the kids in school. I went to James's Christmas Party tonight, just got home not too long ago. My body is telling me not to do anything else tonight & I'm going to agree with it,

My hands have been giving me a lot of issues lately. That's another reason I haven't written in a while. I have that Dragon Dictation: Speech Recognition Program, but it doesn't pick up on my stuttering from my cognitive issues. I'm still waiting to hear back about my blood results about the JC virus... man I hate waiting.

My 6 year wedding anniversary is Saturday, I'm super excited about that. I can't believe I survived 6 years of marriage... with everything that we've been through but at the end of the day, I love him so what can ya do. lol

I feel bad that he has to take care of me sometimes... and that we can't do all the other things we used to. That's one thing about this disease... it doesn't just effect the person diagnosed, it effects everyone else around them.

I still haven't had a lot of improvement on my cognitive issues. This whole not remembering things is not fun at all... and the mood swings are not fun for anyone around me. I should come w/ a warning sign right now. It's like, worse than when I was pregnant. I just snap about anything and everything... and everything gets on my nerves.

I think tomorrow will be good, I can have some time to my self just to relax and do what I want to do, w/ out worrying about anyone else. Everyone needs that time to their self and I don't get it that often, so when I do have that time I'm very grateful. Maybe I can actually attempt cleaning my house... We will see how that goes. I've looked in to getting a cleaning service... but it's so expensive! My mom and I were looking at applying for that Extreme Home Makeover thing... to make my house more accessible for me.

I can barely walk in my room... so, when I'm needing my walker or something, I usually just sleep on the couch. I can't stand to take a shower... & that bathtub is really small for me to maneuver in to sit and bathe. I also need to get a letter from my neuro about proof of diagnosis... so I can apply for some of the medical equipment from the MSAA. I think I'm gonna get all that done tomorrow & also call my lawyer & check up on my case. I first applied for Social Security... October/November of 2010. I'm really hoping that this whole process is just over with and that the Social Security Office realizes that having MS is disabling...

I don't know why, but I've been really distant towards my family as well. I haven't been answering my phone much because I'm just not in the mood to talk. & I think I need to have a notepad stuck to my side so I can write things down because I'm always forgetting something that I thought about five minutes ago. Then I get annoyed with myself that I can't remember!

I'm still not taking my Avonex... my neuros office said that my system would have to be cleaned out for me to start something like Tysabri anyway... so, I think it's for the best. Hopefully with school over & once Christmas is over, my stress level will go down a bit.

Well, my hand is not cooperating w/ me anymore. So I'm going to call it a night.

xoxoxo
Ashley

Broken by Seether, feat. Amy Lee

Foot Drop Anyone?

So... I've been under a lot of stress lately & yesterday I was at a friends house just relaxing (for once) & hanging out and when I got up to leave I realized my right leg wasn't... stable. On the drive home, James was driving, I noticed my right arm wasn't up to par either. When I went to get out of the car... my leg didn't want to "get up and go". I had a cane inside the house so I was using that, but it was hard considering my arm was weak along w/ my leg. (same side)

I decided to just get some rest... thought I might just been having a lack of sleep kinda thing. I woke up this morning and I could walk around, but not easily. I'm still hoping the steroids really help out w/ all of these symptoms. It's like... one thing after another... I get surprised by something a lot lately in regards to my MS. I'm just going to write it off that I'm under a lot of stress lately, due to school and Christmas and all that stuff. Hopefully, it will resolve itself... because something ELSE to deal with from my MS... just isn't something I ordered. lol

I have one more final left... I wish I could just take it and get it over with, I'm just ready to write off school for the time being. I really need to focus on my health & family life... not my GPA. I can say one thing I want to be over with before finals.... these stupid heightened emotions from steroids! I am NOT the kinda person that cries a lot... and I've been a big baby lately, and I don't like it.

My dad called & told me he is going to come & visit me tomorrow... whether that really happens or not, we will see... but it's the thought that counts, right? My mom is still up here... I'm not sure when she is leaving, but I wish she didn't live so far away. I know the boys miss her when she is gone... especially how she spoils them!

I forgot to call my neuro's office today... I have to get an approval on a refill of my Cymbalta... & last night, the pharmacy said that they still hadn't heard back from his office. I'm really gonna be pissed if I can't get a refill on my meds because the pharmacy didn't hear back from my neuro's office. I'm not dependent on Cymbalta for just ONE thing... it helps w/ my emotions (depression, anxiety, stress) as well as my neuropathic pain. Last time this happened with my old neuro, when I was on Prozac... I had to go without for like ONE day & I ended up having an anxiety/panic attack. Not the best feeling in the world, I can tell you that much.

We got most of the decorations up inside yesterday -- minus the tree. Our fake tree is, no good. So, we're going to get a new one this weekend... then we can decorate it. Hopefully we can get all of the Christmas stuff up by the end of the weekend... then I need to start putting together the boys gift bags for their school parties. I have to go to James's Christmas Party on Monday Night... that's always fun! They always request that I bring Sopapilla Cheesecake ( if you haven't made that/had that... here is the recipe: Sopapilla Cheesecake ) It is probably one of the easiest desserts to make that everyone loves!

Well, it's been a VERY long day & I'm gonna make it an early night & get my butt to bed.
Take Care Everyone!

xoxoxo
Ashley

Hello Steroids!

Well today was my last day of steroids. They gave me Lunesta yesterday after my infusion because I couldn't sleep the night before. So last night I took one pill of Lunesta... didn't work after a couple of hours. So I took another that they had given me & I finally fell asleep. Did anyone notice that your emotions are like 10X heightened on steroids?! Holy crap! For one, I got like a million things done yesterday. But my emotions are on edge. I'm not an emotional person... and holy crap! I think it's bringing everything out that I keep locked in... NOT COOL ROIDS, NOT COOL!

Getting Roids w/ my bag of Jolly Ranchers.
The jolly ranchers help w/ the nasty taste!

I'm hoping that the roids will help my symptoms die down. This whole cognitive function crap & swallowing issues, it not cool. I am looking forward to my urology appointment. Just so I can get some damn relief, hopefully. I'm supposed to get my results back from my blood work that week as well, to see about the JC Virus, or whatever. While I was getting my infusion these past couple of days, I spoke w/ others that are on Tysabri & they are handling it very well. That gives me some type of relief... I know we are all different... but it's always nice to hear a good thing about a possible drug you could be on, especially one that slows progression.

I went to walmart and got some more things for Christmas decorating. We are going to do that tonight w/ the kids. I got a singing dog for over the fire place, he is Santa's helper. I'm gonna tell the boys that the dog reports back to Santa.... maybe they will behave more (yea right). It's a worth a shot though.

Jason, my five year old, has been very worried about me lately. They both saw my bandage for where the port was for my IV. It's so nice to have such a young innocent kid just be so compassionate and loving. It made my day. Luke, my two year old, doesn't really understand anything. He just knows mommy has "owies" as he says.

So i've been doing some research... and I've decided to do the "Swank Diet". No red meat for a year.... EEK! But I can have chicken... just don't tell my chickens! I think this evening w/ all of this energy I have I will start wrapping presents. I have one more final on the 12th that I really need to study for, so I'll probably end up listening to lectures later. The good thing is, that most of the questions come from previous exams, that I have typed up and have the answers to that she gave us.

You know what really got me "irked" today... I used my handicap parking pass because I've been having a "lazy leg" aka foot drop. People just stare at me, we went to IHOP this morning, and when we went back to the car, there were people starring at me from inside the restaurant... HELLO! MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS! < see what I mean about emotions heightened. It's like do I need to wear a sign on my forehead that says I'm a young person w/ MS... I mean holy crap. I don't LIKE to use my handicapped parking placard... but you gotta do what ya gotta do sometimes.

With all of this stress going on lately, my vision has been fizzling in and out... but that's because I have Optic Neuritis in both eyes. Again, the steroids should keep that under control. Once I get James to decorate my cane, I'll have to post a picture. It's getting him away from all the hunting, to actually decorate it... that's going to be a difficult task. He did a shoot a deer the other day, HELLO DEER SAUSAGE! << I have an obsession with dried deer sausage.

Anyways, today in the infusion room, I was talking to his lady who has had MS for a long time. She had this cute phone cover of a picture of her young son on it.. he is 15-months old. She said that she felt perfectly fine while she was pregnant... then after she had him, BOOM a horrible flare hit. That just goes to show that pregnancy does put your MS in to remission. I know they have a drug on trial for women... to make their body "think" they're pregnant... I just don't know if I would WANT to feel like I'm pregnant lol Hello Hormones.

I'm really trying hard to get into the Christmas Spirit and do everything I can w/ the boys to make it a blast, but this time of year reminds me of what we went through 4 years ago, the abrupt loss of my mother-in-law at age 52. James and I were in New Mexico celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary (our anniversary is Dec. 17)... she died Dec 20th, 2007. So it's always a rough time this time of year, but we make it through it. Jason said that God needed a Angel to teach the other angels. ((She was a 2nd grade teacher)). Even though I miss her like crazy, I have to think that God has a plan for all of us. That's what makes me think that MS is only for STRONG fighters... Life isn't easy... and I always have to think that there is someone out there that is worse off than I am.

Well, I'm gonna start getting decoration out... I will catch up soon. I hope everyone is having a fun time preparing for the Holidays!

xoxoxo
Ashley

Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer

First Day of IV Roids!

Well, I had my first day of IV roids today. I'm relieved that the process is starting to recovery. So I go tomorrow for the Blood Test for JC Virus at 9:00am then I go for my IV Roids at 10:30am. Then my last IV roids is Thursday at 9:30am. Well I have a lot of energy, that's a benefit of the roids. I have a "port" in my arm for the IV roids for the next couple days... let me tell ya how comfortable that is. I'm like physically tired but not mentally, if that makes any sense. I have realized that with the IV roids that my wrists, elbows & knees feel like I'm being pinned down after a couple of hours of getting them. It goes away, but it's still weird. I guess I've gotten used to it from previous IV roids but it's still not fun.

I'm hoping that my cognitive issues get better with the steroids. I'm so tired of having all this brain fog. The gout has gotten better, but it's not completely gone. I got a cane today... tomorrow when I'm getting my appointments done James is going to decorate it with pink camo. I can't just walk around w/ a plain jane black cane, not my style.

I've gotten almost all of my Christmas shopping done, now I just need to get James to wrap it. I don't think there is anyway that I can wrap them to where they look, decent. My hands aren't going to let me. I even have issues turning pages in books... how am I supposed to wrap things. I think we're going to put up the Christmas decorations tomorrow when James is home from work. I hope the boys are going to be excited about it. We aren't doing a real-tree this year, because of the drought Texas had this past summer with the fires... The Christmas Tree Farms didn't make it & whatever they had is gone. So it looks like we're the fake route this year.

I have one final left, thank goodness. I'm so ready to have my "break". I've really been looking into writing this book. I think after the holidays I'll get the ball rolling on this whole book thing. I feel really inspired by my followers on this blog and the encouragement everyone gives me about my writing. I've never felt so appreciated just for my words. I can't even describe the feelings that I have towards everything I'm doing.

So what are your thoughts about Tysabri? I'm kind of excited. I just feel that Avonex was helping w/ my old lesions but not stopping new ones from forming. I'm trying to get in the spirit of the Holidays, though it's hard with all this going on. I just really feel like getting back to a "normal" schedule is really going to benefit me.

I'm trying really hard not to stress about Christmas, but who doesn't? It's a hectic time & I'm lucky that I got pretty much all of the shopping done online, or else I'de be in BIG trouble. I do have to say that the only thing I don't like about the steroids... is that they make me hungry.... A LOT. UGHHHH! Someone take all of the food away from my home please? lol I'm snacking on fruits so that I don't gain a shit ton of weight. If I need something more filling... I'll have like a smoothie or rice... there needs to be like a guide to be on roids & not gain weight! lol

Well, I'm gonna be productive with some studying. Trying to look for upside to my down... I'll find my way.

xoxoxo
Ashley

Changes coming my way...

Well I heard from my DR's Nurse Practitioner & I as of right now I have "active"lesions... meaning I'm in a flare. I start 3 days of IV steroids tomorrow and I will be picking up a lab paper tomorrow to get some blood work done to test for the JC virus, to see if I can go on Tysabri. I would be lying if I said I wasn't scared... who wouldn't be? They said that I don't have to take the Avonex since it's not doing what it's supposed to, so I'm not going to... because the side effects kick my butt the day after.

I woke up this morning w/ gout... that's a lot of fun, not really. So let's see... I have my urology appointment on the 20th, that will be a relief to go to. I told my DR's nurse that I had decided to quit school for right now, because of my cognitive issues. I also updated my lawyer on everything as well... which I need to do again, since we decided I'm getting IV steroids and everything. Hopefully the steroids will help my brain function & swallowing problems. It seems like the swallowing problems have kinda gone down a little bit but my cognitive problems have been on the rise.

Hopefully I can get everything settled about what medication i'll be on and when... they said it would take like 2 weeks for me to get an answer about my blood work checking for the JC virus. Isn't that PML? I don't know... my brain is toast lately. I got two finals out of the way, one more to go. I have almost all of my xmas shopping done, which i've done from home.

I'm relieved that I finally heard from my doctor's office... but I'm still scared. I was just so used to my usual routine of medication, so this is throwing me for a loop. Well, at least it's only a once a month infusion instead of a weekly shot, right? I'm not looking forward to steroids because I'm always hungry when I'm on them. But then I'm hoping that they help out with w/ increased symptoms because they are getting on my nerves.

My mom is staying with me for the week to help me and she wants to go w/ me to my steroid infusions and all that "fun" stuff. So I'm thinking that since I'm going to have a "break" from school that I'm going to focus on my health & see if I can write a book or something. Hopefully I can get this social security stuff figured out during that time as well. I need some sort of income... especially if my student loans are going to kick in for paying them back. I'm just ready for some relief in all of this. I feel like I went from being good to everything going crazy in like 2 seconds.

Anyways, I'll do an update tomorrow after my infusion and blood draw for the test of the JC virus.

xoxo
Ashley

Use Somebody by Kings Of Leon

What's my next step?

Look I'm "normal"! 

Well we have a severe cold front coming through. Good thing is, it brought a lot of rain that we severely needed... Bad thing is, my body is going crazy with the drastic weather change.

I had a really busy day today. I got one of my finals out of the way today... I have two more to go. I went to my cousins graduation tonight. I'm in my way home right now and I'm freaking exhausted. I didn't have my meds with me so I had to duck out early to head home and get me meds.

I'm kinda transitioning to this whole urinary issue. I had a drink during the graduation...but I didn't drink as lug a I normally would because I didn't want to have to get up any to the restroom in the middle of the graduation. ( I was sitting in the middle of the row.)

I didn't take the boys with me because I knew they wouldn't want to sit there and listen to people talk the whole time. My feet are killing me though, from all of the walking around downtown. I'm in a somewhat better mood today, minus the pain. It toon me an extra 15 minutes to get out of bed this morning... Than it usually does.

Im coming to the realization that everything happens for a reason and God would never hand me a challenge unless he knew I would overcome it. I'm trying to keep a positive attitude through everything but everyone needs that time to be pissed off when things don't go the way you want them to. Just because I seem negative here and there it's not my long term attitude towards the situation... If that makes sense.

Everyone keeps telling me that I need to write a book... And since I've hear it more than once from more than one person... I keep taking it into deep consideration. I get so excited and a sense of joy when I read that my writing helps others. Even when I'm pissed off and throwing a fit about something... It's like someone else can relate and thanks me for saying it like it is.

So I'm assuming once I talk to my doctor, he is going to suggest that I change medication to slow progression and I keep going back and forth on my plan but I'm thinking more and more that instead of switching to Copaxone... I'de to go to Betaseron. I really thought that the whole diagnosis process was a hard time for me... but being used to MS & the symptoms it brings and not knowing I was getting new lesions when I was... it's like that same stress in a different manner. It's like, you already know a lot more about MS... but it still seems to come and stab you in the back. I thought my MS and me were good buddies there for while, until I got the knife in my back.

So what are y'alls thoughts on this... what med should I switch to from Avonex... should I write a book? If I did take the time to actually write a book, would you read it? I guess it's just hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that my vents/blogging are actually words that help others... that others can relate to. I mean, I know I'm not alone in this battle... but I know that MS is different for each and every one of us... so to know that others are still experiencing the exact same things as me... is odd to hear at times.

I wouldn't mind going to a shot that is more frequent AS LONG AS IT'S DOING WHAT IT'S SUPPOSED TO! I'm also going to get a "proof" of diagnosis from my neuro and send it in to the MSAA & see if I qualify for that 4 wheel/seat walker. Oh! I'm gonna go get a cane tomorrow... just a light-weight folding black one... and then I'm gonna go to the arts & crafts store and get some pink camo design and pimp out the cane. I can't find a pink camo cane to save my life... and I have a slight obsession w/ pink camp. I even have a shot gun that is pink camo.

Anyways, my brain is done for the night... I'm gonna go to bed. Comment on my blog & let me know what you think to the questions I asked. I really like to hear the feedback. It also encourages me to keep posting, like what I'm doing is actually worth it.

xoxo
Ashley

Tattoo by Jordin Sparx << Another Multiple Sclerosis Remix that I love.

Picked up my results today...

Well, I haven't talked to my DR about my results... but I got them in. The results paper said I have 3 new lesions, since March of this year... and in total I have MORE than 15 lesions, in my brain. Check out what's "lighting" up right now...

In the frontal lobe... behind my "eye" it looks like.

Well that explains things... I was very upset when I read it, because I felt that the Avonex was really doing it's job, but I guess not. It's like getting those words all over again, "you have MS".. except now I'm wondering... okay, but what kind of MS do I REALLY have?? 

I know stress isn't good for those with MS... so I've decided to take next semester off and focus on my health. I was doing really good w/ my MS & school, until now. I just don't think I can handle it right now. My GPA has suffered... and now I'm suffering. It says that the frontal lobe controls your THINKING and your personality.... maybe that's why I haven't been doing as well as I normally do in school, and why I'm a "moody" biatch. 

I went in to the MRI thinking, okay... I know there is something going on... but I never thought there would be NEW lesions... I thought my pre-existing lesions would be inflamed. Hopefully I will hear from the DR on Monday. I'de like to hear his take on all of this... and I know that we are going to talk about switching medications now. It feels like starting all over again, honestly. Here I thought I was doing great w/ no relapses, when I was wrong. I guess it's because these 'attacks' weren't as noticeable as the ones I've had before. I guess that's why I don't get paid to think, right? 

So, since I'm not going to school next semester, I'm going to take that time to focus on my health & this whole social security mess. Maybe now they will see, that I really AM effected by MS. I can't even go to school because of it... that's saying something. If I can't do a online schooling... how can I work? 

I actually wrote a poem this morning... here it is: Invisible Illness... I Think Not 

I wrote one a while back too: Invisible Feelings

Well, I was having a productive day and studying for my finals... and that is now at a stand still. My brain just can't wrap my brain around anything right now. I think I'm in some sort of shock... to be honest. Right about now, I feel like just taking my finals and getting them over with, not caring the about the results of them. 

I know I come off as a strong person, who can make it through anything... I will overcome this but I'm just emotional & upset right now. Right when I read the results, I called my best friend who has MS and just started crying and she just knew what I was going to say. It's like we are linked together... predicting each others words and thoughts. It's freaky, considering we have never "met" each other... but she is like the sister I never had.... something else that's freaky, my name (Ashley), is in her last name... lol Both of our husbands names are James as well. I'm telling you it was meant to be... but seriously, I'de be lost if I didn't have her. 

When I got home, James held me & so did my mom... but they can't really understand where I'm coming from, no matter how hard they try. I'm debating on if I want to even take my Avonex shot on Sunday... why stab myself w/ something that obviously isn't working... and then have to put up w/ the side effects of that medication. Well I'm gonna go eat dinner and just.. take this all in. I'll check in when I have time, I still have a busy weekend ahead of me... though I don't want to do ANY of it anymore. 

xoxoxo

Ashley

Numb by Linkin Park  << Multiple Sclerosis Version

Still no word on MRI

Okay, I had a VERY busy day today! Got up at 6am to get Jason off to the bus, got Luke dressed for him to go to school, made his lunch all that fun stuff. James and I took Luke to school, went to his grandma's house to pick up one of the boys presents that was shipped there. Went to the post office, then to the feed store to get chicken feed. FINALLY came home so I could study for my finals.

I bugged my neuro during this a little bit, still haven't received my MRI results, which is VERY annoying. So, I got some studying done... not sure if I'm going to remember any of it, but hey, I did it. I did ALL of the laundry today & now I'm washing TWO pairs of Luke's shoes, because not only did he go "mudding" yesterday, but he did it again today! I took the boys to Chik-Fil-A once Jason got off of the bus, so that I could get some reading done for Economics & they could play... but I got to pre-occupied in watching them, to make sure they were okay, to get any reading done.

I'm crossing my fingers that I hear something about my MRI tomorrow. I hate this stupid waiting game... And to top it all off, there is yet ANOTHER weather change coming to Texas & it has all my symptoms slapping me in the face, AGAIN. Along w/ the stress of finals & the holidays, I just want to be a cave woman right about now! lol Used to the only thing that would bother me about the weather change was my arthritis... now it's that and spasms and everything else in the book. Talk about "slamming the book down on me".

I just feel like I'm being diagnosed all over again & it's stressful and I don't even have time to really have a a social life outside of all of this. I mean, not like I have a lot of friends here anyway, but you know what I mean. It's pretty pathetic on how fast people drop you when they find out you have MS... or something like it. It's like they think you are "contagious" or something... I mean c'mon... you can't expect me to NOT talk about something that is life changing to me, right when I get diagnosed... or when I'm going through a flare. It just amazes me on how disrespectful people are these days.

I mean, people are "amazed" that my kids say, yes ma'am and no sir... all that stuff. It's like yea, it's called manners... is that not what people are teaching their kids these days? Are my kids angels, of course not... but they will have manners. I will not allow them to disrespect others the way I have been disrespected in my life, it's just un-called for.

Well hopefully I hear something from the neuro tomorrow... cause I can't wait any longer. It's like waiting for the sequel of a movie to come out... ! UGHHH I think my brain is just DONE for the day, like it can't handle anything else... or else it will be "overloaded". So I'm going to call it a night, I have a busy weekend this weekend, but if I hear anything from the neuro, I'll update!

xoxoxo
Ashley

The Climb by Miley Cyrus
Even though I don't like Miley Cyrus, I like this song a lot... it explains a lot about MS, if you think about it.

I got an appointment!

Texas Dirt Road = Relaxation

YAYYY! I got an appointment w/ the urologist on December 20th! I was so excited I almost peed my pants << urinary joke! lol That was like... the only good thing that came out of today! I asked about my MRI results, they said they weren't in yet... which annoyed me because I'm a very IMPATIENT person, if I haven't already said that.

Then, my youngest son decided to feed the fish while I was in the restroom, except he dumped the whole fish food container in there, so I had to clean the fish bowl out. Once Jason got home from school, I took them to get some late lunch, cause I was in NO mood to cook them anything. I get home & let them eat and play outside and what do they do??? GO MUDDING! UGHHH! I usually don't care, but in their NEW shoes! I was soo upset!

Jason decided to run from me when he knew he was in trouble, so like the stubborn person I am, I chased after him & now I'm paying for it. Especially because my dogs got in the way of my chasing after him and my faced met the ground. Needless to say, it's 6:30pm and they are bathed and in bed.

You know those days where anything and everything pisses you off, yeah that's my day! So I'm glad it's almost over because it's going to be an early night for me tonight. I got some studying done... thank goodness. I don't know how much of it I'm going to remember but hey at least I studied.

You know, I e-mailed one of my teachers because I had a question about when she was going to review our exam & she got kinda snippy w/ me. She said something along the lines of, "The final exam is over the material from the whole semester, so as long as you were paying attention, you should do well... even with out the reviews of the exams." I wanted to reply, uhm excuse me... have you heard of memory problems before!!!! UGH that upset me but like I said, it's one of THOSE days.

Here in a little bit, I'm going to take a shower... snuggle up in bed & watch some TV and relax... and not worry about school work or anything else because I'm just drained. I need another one of those damn valiums to make ALL the pain go away, and to where I can just sleep.

I guess here lately, I just need to come w/ a WARNING sign on my fore head to not piss me off lol. That would make things so much easier! It's a shame that common sense, isn't so common anymore. Oh thank goodness my mother is coming up tomorrow afternoon. My cousin is graduating from college this weekend, so she is heading up here for that and I'm like UGHHH hurry up! I don't want it to sound like I don't want to be around my kids... but I just need a break, ya know? I'm with them ALL the time & it's draining... especially on top of everything else I do.

Well hopefully I can have a better day tomorrow and get some results from my neuro. I will update everyone tomorrow, Have a good one. Oh by the way, I'm gonna attach a link to a song, that I've just been jamming to lately.

Waiting for the End by Linkin Park

Had my MRI

Well, I went for my MRI this morning. Thank goodness they sedated me for it... because I'm really bad w/ my spasticity while laying still. Once I got out of there & I "sobered" up a little bit, I called the neuros office. They gave me the number to a urologist they are referring me to, so that I can make an appointment. I will do that tomorrow morning.

They also said that they will call me in a few days with my MRI results. I hate the waiting game, it's like getting a diagnosis all over again. I'm just feel that there is something going on... and I want to know NOW. Needless to say, I'm not the most patient person there is out there.

You know that feeling where YOU know something is going on with your body, that isn't known yet. It's like you want the truth, even if it hurts. That's how I feel right about now. My diagnosing neurologist had in my records that he was "significantly concerned of Primary Progressive MS", which I don't feel is true, but I just dont "feel" like I'm RRMS. In all honesty, evaluating myself from the beginning of all this, I haven't had any relapses in over year, but my symptoms have progressively gotten worse. So I'm thinking Secondary Progressive MS... Which, in all reality, I've read that 50% of those diagnosed with Repeating Remitting go to Secondary Progressive MS after like a 10 year time frame... But there is no telling on how long I've actually had MS.

I can say that valium is amazing & it made ALL my pain go away... but hey, can't take that on a daily basis, lol. I came home and was going to nap but I got busy doing other things. So I think it's going to be an early night tonight. Gotta take ALL my meds before though. I am seriously, a walking pharmacy. I take: Avonex (slow progression of MS), Abilify (Anxiety/Stress), Baclofen (Spasticity), Clonozepam (Severe Spasticity, as needed), Cymbalta (Depression/Anxiety/Stress/Nerve Pain), Naproxen (as needed for pain), and Nuvigil (Fatigue & Cognitive Issues)... Oh I am on a med too for acne, but that is not related to all this MS crap.

I really hope I get in to the clinical trial for the med that is like Baclofen, but with less side effects. It would be amazing to be on a med that helps my spasticity, but with less side effects (drowsiness). I also need to contact my lawyer about my MRI... & hopefully I can get into the urologist really fast. It's pretty annoying to have urinary issues and being 24 years old. But I have to think of all of this MS stuff as, God wouldn't deal me this card, unless he knew I was strong enough to overcome it. It's just really hard to deal with something that is invisible to most.

Well, I'm exhausted... I'll update tomorrow once I speak w/ the urologist and everything. Hopefully my neuro will get me my MRI results quick fast & in a hurry!

xoxoxo
Ashley

MRI tomorrow!

Well, tomorrow is the day, that I get my MRI of the brain! I really hate getting MRI's but then again, I'm excited because it means I'm closer to getting results as to WHAT THE HELL is going on w/ me. I still need to call the neuro about a referral to the urologist, I meant to today... but I got so busy w/ school work. I'm honestly, just ready for school to be over and done with. I have no 'pleasure' or excitement about doing school work anymore.

So I'm sitting here wondering... okay, what if the MRI doesn't show anything... then what? Does it mean I'm just a more progressive case? Cause from what I've heard and seen.... my RRMS is more progressive than most. I'm glad they aren't doing a MRI of EVERYTHING all at once, again.. cause that was pure torture. I'm hoping James can go w/ me... but it depends on getting our son to school. Even though he can't be in the room w/ me, it's nice to have someone there waiting for me when I'm done. 

I'm still not sure if they are doing an MRI w/ contrast... or what... I like it when they do because it shows lesions better than a regular MRI, but then again that contrast makes me sick to my stomach. Well at least I got a lot of my school work out of the way today, so I don't have to worry about doing it when I get home, because I will probably just want to sleep. Even though I'm laying there in that annoying tube... it is exhausting. I have to stay awake during it, to make sure my tremors don't take over.  

One of the things I have noticed lately, is my memory is soooo long gone! I can't remember anything & it's soo annoying! I'm trying to keep my stress level under control because that seems to make everything worse... but saying I'm going to do something & actually doing it are two different things. 

I'm glad that the weather has finally cooled off in Texas thought and it looks like it's going to level out for a little bit, thank goodness. We finally got some rain too.... we need a lot more, but hey at least it's something. I need to plan on a trip soon to take the boys on the hay ride and pick out and cut down our Christmas tree, even if we can do that this year. They said since the drought was so bad, a lot of the tree farms suffered. 

It was just my luck for Texas to have the worst summer ever, on my first summer with my MS diagnosis. I will never complain about too much rain or too much cold weather EVER again. Well it's about time for me to go fill my medicine box, so I don't FORGET to take my meds! 

xoxoxoxo

Ashley

Where it all started...

I began this blog to vent out my frustrations of life... especially living with MS. I never thought to start off as to, hey... this is how I got here... So, here we go.

At the beginning of 2010, I noticed that the right side of my face was tingling here and there... started off on my lip. Well, my whole life i've been a walking accident so I thought that it was my body being weird to me because of the hell i've put it through. It went away.. came back... went away, and so on and so on.

Well when James was in his Fire Academy for a week in July of 2010, I went to San Antonio to stay w/ my mom (it was her 50th bday) <<Sorry for outing you mom. Well anyways, I still had some numbness/tingling on the right side of my face... I had just kinda dealt with it. I had gone to my PCP about it & they put me on meds for anxiety/stress and scheduled an MRI for when I got back from being out of town.

Anyways, so , I'm in town for her bday and we had her party, it was a blast... mom drank a LITTLE bit too much... but hey what can ya do! So, I'm sitting at my computer doing some homework... then my vision went blurred and my left arm went numb... freaked me out. My mom stayed at home w/ the kids and I went to the hospital. They tested me for stroke... monitored me and did a CT Scan.

The CT scan came back normal, go figure right, & they told me I was STRESSED...and that the monitor showed I was hyperventilating at times... well no shit sherlock. So they told me to follow up w/ my PCP. So when I got home, I followed up w/ my PCP... I had to see the nurse practitioner cause my DR was booked. So, I see the N.P and she was a snooty biatch, just saying. She tells me I'm STRESSED, once again that's what they are telling me my symptoms are caused by. So she said since my CT scans are fine, she CANCELLED my MRI.

That next month (August 2010) I graduated w/ my Associates Degree in Criminal Justice Corrections on the 15th... I then realized the WHOLE side of my face is numb and tingling... and had a burning sensation to it. So, here I go to my PCP... She treats me for "bells palsy" and gives me steroids w/ a referral to a neuro. Guess what, I get better w/ the steroids! lol

I have my evaluation w/ my neuro on like the 25th or something of August... He orders an MRI to "check on things". I go in for my MRI on Saturday, August 28th.... The contrast made me sick to my stomach.... but I made it through it. That night, I went to bed and I was watching TV and I had this like after effect of light in my eye. You know when you take a picture and the flash like stays in your eye for a minute, yeah that. So I turn off the TV and go to bed.

The next morning, I'm a walking sober drunk person. I couldn't balance a paper plate w/ my left hand... I was running in to walls and all that. Now, me and the walls are strangers -- but this was a little bit too much of running in to each other. So, I had some double vision going on... couldn't text worth a crap & I just gave up on that whole thing lol. The next day I called the neuro, no response... I call like 3 times and nothing. So James and the kids and I go to the hospital, they drop me off up front for me to go to ER. I was like okay, well my neuros office is right here let me go see if I can talk to him.

I go up to my neuros office, they "fit" me in to his schedule.... I go into his office and he tells me I have MS. I'm like okay, cool.. what's that how do we get rid of it... Then he explains it to me, and like a sissy baby I cry lol << I'm not a very emotional person, just to let you know. So, I call James and him and the kids come up there... James walks in sees I'm crying and says, "Well this can't be good." So after we go over everything again, we schedule a "follow-up" visit after I get IV steroids, mind you during all of this, I texted my mom and told her and I don't think I will EVER live that one down.

So, I get the IV roids and get the steroid taper and finally get to feeling better. Had my follow up & chose to get on Avonex. Started Avonex in September & finally got adjusted to taking the shot and learned how to "avoid" the side-effects. Well... my 23rd birthday is coming up, October 13, 2010, and I'm SUPER excited! And then I have a relapse! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Only this time, my right side of my face is completely paralyzed & I'm having issues swallowing and I can't walk w/ out assistance... all that stuff. Off to the neuro we go... ((long story I know, but we're almost done)).

So, I get another MRI and SURPRISE I HAVE HEADLIGHTS! I call them headlights because I got two new lesions on my brain stem & on the MRI they look like headlights. So, I get IV roids.... I'm actually getting them the day OF my birthday. James still went through w/ my bday party it was a lot of fun, especially since I was doped up on pain pills, I was the life of the party. lol

It's been over a year and I've had relapses but increased symptoms, that you've read about. By the way, MRI on Tuesday. It's been a roller coaster that's for sure... I found out who my real friends are.. which the ones I thought would stick around, didn't. Oh well, screw them... their loss right? Everyone always tells me that I've really taken this diagnosis and moved on w/ it... It's like, well yeah I can't just sit around and feel sorry for myself I have two kids to care for. So I came across MSWorld and it's been the best thing that has happened to me since my diagnosis. I've met friends here that can never be replaces, and I've found the true meaning of friends forever, through thick and thin.

So just remember, we're not alone... we all have a plan in life... and this is my plan. It's not what I thought it would be, but it's something I'm proud of. Nobody can make you truly happy, but yourself. You need to find peace within, no matter what your situation to triumph and conquer. MS has won this battle, but I will win the war, along w/ everyone else diagnosed with MS. There is a saying I saw and I'm sticking to it, "MS is only for STRONG fighters." Well if you know me, you know I'm a fighter and this is a fight i'm not backing down to.

Life is a blessing... the outcome of your own life, is the way you choose to live it.

xoxoxoxoxo
Ashley

Moody Day

Yeah, so the title says it all. I'm really moody today. I don't want to do anything or be around anyone... who knows what's going on with me. I've gotten a lot done today, but i've just been kinda "layin low" lately... and keepin to myself. I talk to a few people on a daily basis, but that's about it.

I wouldn't say I'm "antisocial", I just don't have the patience to put up w/ any drama BS, ya know? Like those ignorant people who always try to ONE UP you.... It's like I'll say, "I'm in so much pain today." ignorant person says, "you're telling me, I have pain here, here, here and to top it all off, I've had a bad day".... it's like SHUT UP!

It seems as if those people ask you how you are doing, just to open it up for them to "one up" or out do you in pain/drama BS... It just gets on my nerves. I don't care if they want to one up me ... it's the fact that they aren't being sincere when they ask, how i'm doing. Makes me wants to B-slap someone! lol

So... to speak of my pain today... who knew that a car drive could do SO much damage. I'm seriously, still in my pajamas. I didn't even want to get out of bed.... I've been lounging around the house all day & I just want to go back to bed soon.

Our new Great Dane is doing better... very skinny still, but I'll change that. He is very skiddish around men... poor thing. Something happened to make him that upset around men, but he follows me around like a baby. Here is a pic of him, he is adorable!

Isn't he just the cutest ever! Those are my boys in the background. Moose is their guardian! lol I'm an animal lover, if you didn't know.

Well it looks like we are having some friends over tonight.... that should be interesting. My butt is gonna be sitting inside relaxing... our friends know that I can't be standing outside the whole time socializing, so it's nice to have that understanding.

We are supposed to be having yet, another, weather change coming... maybe that's being a contributor to some of the pain i'm having. Who knows right?

I'm really glad my mom came up for the weekend, to help me out... but then again, I feel bad when she comes up here and does so much. I used to be the biggest clean freak ever & now it's like I have to have things clean.... but getting them clean is a different story. I called and got an estimate on how much it would be to have a cleaning crew come to my house, occasionally..... let's just say it's way too much! lol

My mom was talking about sending something in to "home makeover", to try and get them to make a house for me that is more accessible... Seeing as we are living in my father in law's house because my mother in law passed away.... I don't have a master bedroom. I have a VERY small bedroom... & it's not easy to move around in, especially when I have my walker.

I really need to look into getting a cane.. but I can't find a pink camo cane!  I gotta be crippled in style!

Okay, I'm gonna go lay down for a bit. Might blog later, if not... I will tomorrow! Thanks for all the support as I'm writing these blogs... I appreciate everyones words very much!

xoxoxo
Ashley

Happy Thanksgiving

Well, it's been an eventful past two days, that's for sure. Yesterday I baked all morning for Thanksgiving & then I drove to San Antonio, to have Thanksgiving w/ my dad's side of the family Wednesday night, and today I had lunch w/ my mom's side of the family. I got home not too long ago.

Who knew that just siting & driving would drain me so much?! I have aches & pains all over and I'm like WTF! I'm glad to be back home though... very relaxed now! I've come to realize from this trip, why I don't travel all that much. It just drains me of energy & eating the turkey, didn't help at all.

I was happy to see all my family, I don't see them all that often. I got home to a warm welcome from the dogs, that's always the best! My mom followed me up here, to stay for the weekend. Somehow she knew in my voice from earlier this week, that I wasn't doing good. MOMS! lol

I'm nervous to get my MRI on Tuesday.... hopefully I have no new lesions... maybe my existing are just irritated at the moment. Who knows... Cause I do have two lesions on my brain stem & I know that can affect my swallowing, but urinary?!?! I don't know... stupid confusing MS!

Some of my family here and there asked me how I was doing.. I said the classic saying, "I'm fine" lol I mean, not to be rude... but if I had told most of them, they wouldn't of understood anyways. Ya know, I feel like it took forever to get answers that led to my diagnosis & then whenever something new happens, it feels like the waiting game all over again!!! Doesn't this cycle end? I'm guessing not!

Well, I've been looking more in to my degree plan & I'm going to try and change my major to Communications (Public Relations).... catchy, ay? lol My mom talked to my cousin, who has diabetes... who used the same lawyer I am... He said it took him over two years to get disability... and he didn't have to go to court, but the lawyer went to the judge! So, I'm thinking I need to call my lawyer, see what's up?!

OH! I printed out & filled out some papers for the MSAA to get a "snazzy" walker instead of the walker I have w/ tennis balls on it lol, this one has 4wheels... so all I need is my lawyer to verify my MS diagnosis & I'm gonna send that stuff in! I asked to get the "hand-rail" too... so I have an easier time getting out of bed... cause that's a pain in my ... ya.

HELLO! I'm 24 years old... shouldn't I have other things to worry about besides this stupid BS MS... just saying. I'm glad I have the support I do though, through all of this... I don't know what I'de do w/ out it. Well, I'm stuffed & it's about time to watch the UT vs. ATM game! So i'll catch up later, I hope everyone had a GREAT Thanksgiving! Take care!

xoxoxo
Ashley

Well hello weather change!

Yeah... So I didn't get much sleep lady night. I was woken up at like 3 am from the thunderstorm and it took me a little bit to go back to sleep. My MS is in full swing today! It so graciously greeted me this morning. I think it's a combination of the weather change, my shot, and overdoing yesterday.

Right now my ears are "hot"... I hadn't experienced this in a while and now it's back. I've also been having tremors really bad today... I think my body is yelling at me to take a chill pill. We got a new Great Dane today...his name is Moose! He is already a mama's boy! LOL My other male digs are being my "protector" today... It's hilarious.

I did forget to call my neuros office today to check up on the whole MRI issue... But I did pass my exam! That was a relief... Now I have a break from school for Thanksgiving. I'm pretty sure I'm going to apply to the University of Texas and change my major to something in communications or business. I've printed out the degree plans to look over and decide what exactly I want to do.

I think I'm just coming to the full realization that if I'm going to work its gonna have to be from home... If I have issues going to the store I don't even want to think about the issues I'll have having a job I have to BE at on a regular basis.

I'm gonna be traveling the next couple days so I'm not sure if I'm gonna be able to post much, but I'll try and update you on the crazy times with my crazy family.

I'm gonna make it an early night tonight in exhausted! Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Xoxoxo
Ashley

Stick a fork in me, I'm done.

Okay, so let's start off by saying... I had a VERY busy day. I have an exam tomorrow that I've been studying for... both the boys didn't have school today, at least one of them has school tomorrow! I studied, did some stuff for MSWorld... cleaned, played, cleaned some more. Now I really need to do some final studying, but man am I beat!

I did call the neuro's office, who gave me the number to the radiology place. So... I called the radiology place & got my MRI scheduled for next Tuesday, of the brain. I am going to ring the neuro again tomorrow, because I was under the impression that I was getting a full MRI done, like spine, neck, brain... the whole sh-bang!

Anyways, I'll keep y'all updated on that. On another note, Wednesday I leave to go out of town for Thanksgiving, I'm going to San Antonio to see my family. I haven't seen them in a while, so I'm excited. James has to work Thanksgiving... that's no fun. So I'll leave Wednesday and have Thanksgiving w/ my dad's side of the family that night, then stay w/ my mom & Thursday I'll go to my grandma's (mom's side) for Thanksgiving lunch. THENNNN, I get to drive back home... depending on how I feel.

I totally forgot to take my shot last night, OOPS. So I'm taking it tonight... I probably over did today -- but once I start cleaning I can't stop. I called for some prices on a cleaning service for the house... they are pricing my house at $150-$200 PER CLEAN!, YA RIGHT!

It just gets hard to clean, w/ the fatigue & the pain... I can't even grip the vacuum sometimes, that's why my house goes un-cleaned sometimes. & I'm a clean freak... so it drives me insane & I try and clean anyways, but I can't then I get pissed off and ugh!

I've been really testy lately, snapping for no reason... I don't know if it's the stress or what but man oh man I should put a warning sign on my forehead when people approach me. I think it's the stress of not knowing whats going on with my MS as well. It's driving me bonkers! I can barely swallow sometimes and it's freaky & I get all freaked about going to sleep, ya know?

Oh which reminds me, when I call neuro about the whole MRI thing... I need to see if they are referring me to a urologist... and what the next steps are. I just want to get back on the path of moving forward again. I feel like in the fast year i've taken 5 steps forward and 10 steps back. I'm too young for this shit!!! lol My 23rd birthday, I had to get a steroid infusion & my nurse had a present waiting for me :) it was very nice!

You know what I'm really tired of... the weight gain w/ the medicines and inability to move! I used to be such an active person!!! Now i'm like ahhhhh STOP! I don't need any more extra'ness! I'm doing this whole "juicing" thing... and working out as much as I can... and I feel better, but still.. no weight loss. We will see though.
Alright that's it for now, I'll check back in tomorrow.

xoxoxo
Ashley

Lazy Day!

Well today's weather was very "gloomy" so I just did, NOTHING. Well, I did things around the house & some homework... but I wasn't running around doing stuff. It was nice, except for the fact that I had to go to the grocery store... that always takes a lot out of me.

So, I've been reading everyones feedback and I did want to say this... By blogging, I'm getting my feelings off my chest because it's not good to dwell on things or hold things in. So this is my way of just letting it out and moving forward with my life.

I've realized that when I see family or friends, I don't want to talk about what my MS is doing to me or anything like that, I want them to ask me about how I'm moving forward with my life, how my volunteering is going. I take great pride in the things I do at MSWorld and It's nice for that to be acknowledged by them rather than wanting me to reflect on the things, I'd rather not try and explain.

It's not easy explaining how MS effects me... because it's "invisible" for the most part. "You look great!" Yeah... well... You look like an idiot lol Just saying, I don't want to sit here and talk about all my medical problems, I want to move forward and look at where I'm going & what I'm doing in the future. Is that so much to ask?

James knows better than to ask me how I'm "feeling" that day, he knows when something isn't right and addresses it then... I'm glad that he treat me like a fragile piece of glass, because I'm not. I'm still Ashley, just different. Even though I would never ask to have MS, I am dealing with it and moving forward and doing things with my life that I never knew were possible. Not to mention, the wonderful people I've met in the journey, so far.

Never in a million years would I ever think that I would make such wonderful friends that I like to call family, online. It's just crazy on how quick life can change, ya know? Tomorrow I'm going to "hound" the Neuro's office... see what's going on w/ this whole MRI thing. I know they are probably waiting till after Thanksgiving... but I'm not a very patient person.

I've realized what I do in order to make myself feel better and that's make others laugh. I also love that I help people as well. When I was first diagnosed I was told, OH YOUR SO YOUNG! Well truth is, I'm not the youngest & that's the sad part. There are kids out there with MS that don't know any different.

It seems as if people need to "think before they speak" sometimes. I don't remember if I told y'all, but I ordered a shirt off the internet and it says, "My Chronic Illness is more real than your medical expertise!" I thought maybe if I wore it out to events, maybe people would "think before they spoke". It's a shame common sense isn't so common these days...

Jason, my oldest son, is off school ALL week for Thanksgiving, since when do they get a whole week off??? Oh well, he helps me out... most of the time. My boys are so cute... whenever I'm not doing so good, they know without me even saying anything and they just cuddle up w/ me and play w/ my hair or ask me if I need anything! Jason even LIKES vacuuming, sometimes!

Well, it's geting late and I'm exhausted... I really wish this stupid Texas bi-polar weather would make up it's mind... it's tiring! I feel like a meteorologist, cause I can tell when the weather is going to change because of my MS and arthritis, before it even actually changes... Career change?? I THINK NOT!

That's it for me! Take care everyone & remember... you are responsible for your future, make it the best it can be.

xoxoxo

Got out of the house

Well today I ran some errands BY MYSELF. It was nice to have some "alone" time and be out of the house besides being at a DR appointment. Once I was done w/ that I came home & took care of the chickens & dogs. Then the hubby and I went out to the deer lease to check the game camera... got some deer coming in finally.

I might have to start looking for a job, instead of waiting around on Social Security... we really need to get our own house cause living with and taking care of all my father-in-law's stuff, is not the best thing for me or my family. It's draining... to be honest. Ever since my mother-in-law abruptly died, i've been taking care of the house and his financials... and I just can't do it anymore.

Now James, my husband, is taking me out tonight. He knows I just need a break from mommysville. lol I've just had a lot of stress going on lately with school and the holidays, it's wearing me out. I want to just have a social security and volunteer and be done w/ it all. But if I get denied one more time, I'm going to just see if I can get a job working from home. That way I don't have to be at a work place if I'm not feeling well. I can work in my pajamas.

I'm going to call my neuro's office on Monday, see if they are going to schedule my MRI soon or what, also, to see if I'm going to be referred to a urologist. That drive to the deer lease was rough, to say the least.
My cousin came over yesterday, I cut his hair & he got his jacket that I've had at my house forever then we went out to eat at Pluckers. It was fun, I'm just glad James is home from work finally. He had to work a 48 hr. shift.

I've been in a "pissy" mood lately, don't know why... I guess it's because of all my symptoms & everyday life and school and AHHHHHHH! But I am really glad that my blogging has helped others with MS... it means a lot to know that just my words can help others. I'm pretty much not holding anything back in this blogging thing. Well, that's all for now, take care and be well everyone!

"I might seem as strong as a rock but I do have some cracks of weakness."  -- Ashley Ringstaff

It's a BLAH day

So, I really need to clean my house today, but sitting around and watching Lion King w/ Luke sounds so much better. Brings me back to my childhood days. I passed both of my quizzes this week, so that was a relief. Now I just need to get some things done, to be ahead in school so that I don't get so overwhelmed with school work all the time.

I can tell you that I am tired of people coming at me w/ a negative attitude. It's a sad thing that common sense isn't so common these days. I did do some cleaning yesterday... to keep my mind occupied. I kept getting on Facebook and seeing everyone's status updates about seeing Breaking Dawn & it just pissed me off.

I'm glad that everyone is enjoying reading my blog, it means a lot that by reading my blog it's helping them cope with MS. So, I'm not like severely depressed right now, this is just my way of letting it all out. It's better than keeping it all bottled up inside, cause for those of you who know me, it's not a good thing for me to explode on someone.

I'm just glad that I have MSWorld to help me through all of this. It keeps me busy and let's me feel involved and like I'm doing my part. It's also fun, I have fun with what I'm doing, minus the bullshit that comes along with it. I've met some great people there though. It's like Montel said, "You don't get it, till you get it."

So, I started this whole juicing thing... and I really enjoy it, I don't get exhausted as quick. I'm not saying my symptoms are gone, but they aren't as intense, because I have more energy. "I'm gonna be a mighty king, so enemies beware!" lol

I'm going to call neuro soon to schedule MRI & I also need to figure out what I can do about this whole clinical trial for spasticity. I'd like to have a medicine that didn't cause more fatigue. Sometimes I wish that everyone came to my house for the holidays, instead of all of this traveling, but then I think.... well I don't have to clean up for it in the long run lol

Alight, I'm out for now, I gotta get SOME cleaning done. Take Care!