Last Friday, David & I returned from a week-long trip to Santa Rosa, Sonoma and Petaluma California. We traveled there for a wedding and then added some extra days for vacation. Before we left, I prepared some posts to go up automatically while we were gone. David is wary about posting about being away.
Since the beginning of June, I have been wrestling with some serious health issues which involved lots of tests...waiting...more tests...more waiting. Right before we left, I met with a cardiologist who ordered some specialized bloodwork to determine whether there was some kind of heart problem. My symptoms have been severe pains in my chest, radiating to my shoulders, back, neck and sometimes my jaw. After evaluating all of the x-rays, CT scans and bloodwork, the cardiologist is satisfied that my problem isn't with my heart. In reviewing my bloodwork, the factors indicating inflammation are high and so he has referred me to a rheumatologist. It has been weeks now waiting to get an appointment but I am seeing someone tomorrow. I hope we can quickly find the answer to this problem and a fix. I have had to sleep sitting upright in a chair most nights because it's too painful to lie down and I am constantly fatigued. I have no appetite (I should be a size 6 by now but when you're not doing much the weight doesn't necessarily deop away!) and no interest in doing much. Anyone who knows me personally knows this is NOT the normal Joyce! While we were away, there were so many things I wanted to see and do but just couldn't because of the discomfort. Since we are home, I haven't even had the energy to post here and I have so much I want to share with you. I just have to work on this health problem and get some things resolved so that I can carry on in my own normal, goofy way!
I am not one who would ordinarily talk about health issues in this forum but I wanted you to know why I haven't been writing or even visiting much. As soon as we have some answers and solutions and I am feeling like myself I will be back to my little blog.
In the meantime, know that I am not afraid. I am in the care and grace of Jesus Christ, who walks with me every day. I have the support of dear family, especially David, who has been my rock, friends and healthcare professionals. We will solve this mystery and I will be returned to health. If you can squeeze me on to your prayer list, I will be grateful.
Thank you for being my friend!
xoxo
Joyce
