I wrote this before the first of the month and then fell into an emotional hole. After thoughtful conversation with Celia from FigJamandLimeCordial.com we asked Liz Posmyk from BizzyLizzysGoodThings.com if she would take over In My Kitchen. She said yes! I loved doing it but as you’ll read, I need to concentrate on getting well.
Many of my wonderful friends know that I’ve been dealing with back pain and I stuck with a doctor who apparently didn’t believe me. I complained of a new stabbing pain in my back and she sent me for an x-ray. X-rays don’t tell much other than a broken vertebrae but she sent me anyway. They were looking along my spine for damage and didn’t find any.
The doctor sent a message that said, “X-ray is all clear, there’s nothing wrong with your back,” and I cried. All the years of pain and frustration with no real relief and she’s telling me I’m making it all up? I was disgusted and angry and I got a new doctor.
I won’t bore you with all the details but I have a broken rib but that’s not all. I have a diagnosis for all the pain!
The CT scan shows I have D.I.S.H. which is Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis. It means my ligaments are turning to bone. Its a subset of osteoarthritis and there’s no cure. Gross, I know but how cool to finally know what’s been causing the problem. New doctor has also given me drugs and I’m beginning to be able to move around a lot better. More importantly, I have a doctor who understands the condition and will work with me to sort it out.
I’ve been staying in the house because I’m so afraid that the pain will be so bad that I won’t make it back to the car. Nuts, I know.
I need to reduce stress so I’m going to stay away from blogging for a bit more. I stress when I don’t visit all the blogs I love and I stress that my blog posts aren’t good enough and I mostly stress over social media that for me meant I had to start at 7am and not quit until midnight. With this new situation, I can’t work like that any more.
I will still blog when I have something fantastic to share and I’ll visit blogs when I can sit but mostly I’m going to walk with the dog, go swimming and maybe read a few books outside under a tree. For the first time in my life, I’m putting me first. It’s different and I’m not sure I can do it but I’m going to give it a go.
Not much in my kitchen because I don’t go out much and hopefully that will change.
Thanks for being my friend and please visit all the In My Kitchen blogs when you can? It’s a great thing to see what’s going on in other kitchens around the world.
Darling friend, I am so glad to know that now, at least, you are in the good hands of a caring doctor… one who knows that there IS indeed something wrong, and can guide you on the path to a balanced life. As we discussed, you are doing the right thing, putting YOURSELF first for once in your life. Take care, read a book, REST, go for those walks, REST, swim in the warm pool, then REST some more, with regular visits to the specialist in between, love. We are all here for you. Don’t forget you can call me anytime for a chat (and I have your number so I’m going to check in every now and then too). Much love and gentle hugs to you. xxxxxxx
Maureen, you know I adore you. Please get better soon – that’s the only thing that’s important. And thanks Lizzy for agreeing to take over IMK! Much love to you both.. xxx
Celia darling, my pleasure. Maureen, please get well.
Your story is very sad, and I wish it didn’t happen repeatedly to many people, wish it hadn’t happened to you. I hope the continued efficacy of the drugs means you’ll be more pain-free as time goes on.
best… mae at maefood.blogspot.com
I’m so glad you have a diagnosis – you can face everything head on now. I hope you will find relief and a new way of being!
I am sending good thoughts and love your way; many people are. Take care of yourself.
Best wishes to you and take the time to relax and take care of yourself. At least you have a diagnosis and good doctor, it’s a matter of time before you feel better hopefully.
Love and Support sent your way. So glad you are taking time for you and that you have a clear vision of what is wrong and what to do to feel your best. As someone said above: Gentle hugs! XXOO
Lell
Delighted to hear that finally you know what’s ailing you. Knowing something is wrong, but not knowing what it is can be so frustrating. Also glad you found a good doctor. I miss you and your blog, but you do have to put yourself first. We can all go a little hungry while you’re getting better. 🙂 So glad to hear from you again — and please do take care.
Maureen I’m so sorry for all of the pain you’ve endured for so long. So great that you have a diagnosis and that you’re in good hands, with a treatment plan. I hope your pain resolves soon so you can enjoy some good R&R and much needed time to yourself. Take good care and please keep us (your blogging fans and friends) posted from time to time on how you’re doing.
Rest up and take care of yourself – that’s all that matters xx
I’m so glad to hear that you have a doctor who is supportive now. Focus on getting yourself well! xx
<3 <3 <3 So glad you are putting you first, Maureen. Sending prayers for healing with Grace and ease. Do enjoy your vacation <3 <3 So grateful you've found a doctor you can trust….I trust we will see you back on the blogging scene when the time is right. Hugs, (Gentle ones) Kim Watkinson
Dearest Maureen. OMG How terrible. Take care of you. Your first responsibility is taking care of yourself. I knew something was wrong since I had not heard from you for so long. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care dear friend. *Hugs*
Sending you my very best wishes . . . oft life is ‘day to day’, even ‘hour to hour’ Am certain you are aware there are quite a few in our circles going thru’ this every day. Oddly one learns how, and life is actually sweeter after, out of sheer pride of accomplishment . . . *wry smile* . . . have just been thru’ a side of broken ribs myself and know what that feels like . . . Just do not look back as to how you ‘used to be’ – look forwards to the person you will make yourself be!! Lizzie brilliant choice as to your successor 🙂 !
So great to hear you are on track to find relief. I’ve wondered how you are and so glad to know there is forward progress. Praying for you Maureen. You are missed. I love your plan however, you should be pampered and I know your puppy is lovely his extra time snuggling with you. Take care and thanks for the update.
Oh Maureen … I am so sorry to read that you are still in such terrible pain, but thrilled that you FINALLY have a diagnosis!!!! I’ve been there and not knowing what the hell is going on and having doctors blow you off is infuriating! So now that you have a name for it, I truly how that your doctor to help you improve and become mobile again. Lots and lots of gentle hugs are being sent across the ocean.
Maureen dear – You MUST put yourself first and work on getting well. Finding the right doctor who truly listens and understands is key and you now seem to be on the right path. My father used to say all doctors are still “practicing”. Love you.
Maureen, take good care of yourself and I hope you get well soon. Concentrate on your well- being only, we all understand. Sending you healing thoughts and hugs.
Sweet Maureen, don’t worry about your blog. We will be there waiting for you when you are healthy. Because nothing matters more than your health, so please take the time to heal. I’m so glad that your new doctor is helping. What a lesson for us to learn – trust yourself. You know your body best. xxoxxo
There is nothing worse, when you are in pain and knowing that something is wrong, than a doctor who will not listen or does not care!! I am so pleased that you have finally found out what is happening, beggar of a diagnosis as it is, but you now know what is best for YOU and you have taken the right steps to do it!
Sending you lots of love and hugs and hope that we catch up again one day.
Best wishes Maureen. Walking, reading and swimming- the best cures on the planet. Social media is an addiition that you can do without for a while. Thanks for hosting the IMK over the last year.
Buggeration Maureen. I wish I could get that doctor to suffer through your pain for just a day. to teach them a lesson.!!!. Sorry I haven’t checked in with you in the last month or so. I miss you terribly. Even that little piece of writing above reminds me of the ease of reading your posts. Rest on. Love to you. Xxxxxxxxxxxc
Maureen, I am sorry you’ve been through the wringer just trying to find a good doctor. That frustration on top of the pain is the crumbiest. Glad to hear you are taking care of yourself and have a true care-giver in a physician. All the best to you as you heal and rest. (Hugs)
Sometimes I feel like writing you, but then realize that the more emails and posts and stuff you get, the more you will be tempted to sit at the computer, and that is a NO NO NO NO!
but I know you know I think about you all the time, and hope that now that you FINALLY got a doctor who has functional brains not clogged by a humongous ego, you’ll find things easier and will be able to deal with your health issues in the best possible way!
take it easy, put yourself first each and every day!
much Brazilian love flying from Kansas…
Maureen, you’re an absolute DISH ( no pun intended on your FINALLY diagnosed aka “believed” back pain) and accolades to Bizzy Lizzy for offering to keep IMK going, xo! I had a similar “God wink” earlier this year to do the same, but unfortunately I’ve found myself away from home for the umpteenth month in a row. Please know that a “sub” is awaiting in the wings once I get home (hopefully within two weeks) and I’d be delighted to help either of you. I’ve spent a lot of time away from “my” kitchen this year (which y’all graciously and generously restored) and I’d be happy to hostess in whatever way I can. I’m also greatly looking forward to connecting with the links in your sidebar… thanks for including me. I’ve been SO hit or miss since last Spring (your Autumn)… and yay for everyone’s “kitchens” for entertainment, inspiration, and lovely friendships!!! xoxo Holler if I can help!!!
I am so pleased you have a diagnosis. Sending you loads of love xxx
Maureen, my best wishes, and happiest , most hopeful thoughts are with you as you recover. Don’t worry about us out here. We will be okay until you get back with us full time. Just take all the time you need to take care of yourself.
Glad you found someone who knew what the problem was and you can ajust your life accordingly. And I appreciate blogs who don’t tell me every minutiae of their life we all have one and can’t be tied down to all the blogs. Enjoy your walks and look forward to updates
Dear Maureen, I am so glad you finally have a diagnosis. It does not make the pain seem any less but at least you know what you need to to keep the pain under control. Taking care of yourself instead of the blog is the first brilliant step. Keep moving, even if just very gently. Now never say never there is no cure.. Today, there might not be a lot in place but every day science is making lots of new discoveries. Stay strong and take care
Maureen, I’m so sorry to hear this. Take some time and get well and I’ll enjoy reading when you’re ready <3
It must be such a relief to finally get some answers, I’m so sorry that you had to go through everything you did. Medical technology is better every day, they might find a cure some day but at least you are feeling more like yourself again. We understand about the commenting so don’t worry one bit, we want you to get better soon.
Eva XOXO
Maureen, I’m so glad at long last you have a diagnosis. I hope you shared that bit of info with your worthless former doctor! And I’m glad you’re going to take all the time you need to take care of yourself. Keep up the good work — swimming, reading, walking the dog. I’ve been spending too much time in the blogging chair, though not the hours you mentioned, so I’m making a point of getting up and moving around every 30 minutes. They say sitting is the new smoking!
Well it is nice to have an update even if it isn’t all good. At least you now have a doctor that knows what is wrong and even if there is no cure, can certainly help make the pain more tolerable for you. You definitely have to put yourself before all else. If you don’t blog anymore but occasionally give us an update, that will make us all happy I’m sure. In my kitchen is in good hands with Liz, a good decision. Take care my friend.
Just wanted to stop back by and wish you a Merry Christmas.
Aww thanks, Karen and Merry Christmas to you both.
All the best Maureen, take care you don’t need stress in your life. We never fully realise how precious good health is until we are not in possession of it. Get well.
I am so glad that you finally have a diagnosis and I pray you can learn to manage the pain in a way that works for you. Blogging should never get in the way of life! I have lived with damaged ribs for years now and I can relate to the pain. Here is the link to my IMK post: http://tandysinclair.com/showcasing-august-2016/ Big hugs Tandy
Hi Maureen! Thank goodness you found a doctor who actually cares about you!! Kind thoughts from Tennessee.
Hi Maureen! I am so glad to hear from you and I do understand your back pain. I have osteoarthritis from my neck to my behind and in my hips. I hope you can find some relief. How is John? We are still in LaFollette which I know is close to where you lived for years. Thinking of you two…
D
It’s good to hear from you Maureen, at long last you have a diagnosis at leat that is something. You are right to put yourself first, go and enjoy walking the dog and sitting under your tree reading a good book. Wish you and yours all the best xxx
Oh Maureen, I’ve been thinking about you and wondering how you’re doing. It makes me sad to hear all the pain you’ve been through. I’m glad there is a diagnosis though I know it’s not one you hoped for. I like your plan to take care of you and will pray for healing and miracles in your life. Take care my friend.
My thoughts are with you Maureen. Look after yourself xx
Julie
Gourmet Getaways
Maureen – what a challenge! You need to do what’s best for you and as I can see from the comments above, are a much loved part of the IMK family. All the best. (and what a lovely posy of flowers)
Please just focus on getting well, blogging can wait, but your health is the number one priority! Feel better soon!
Hugs!
thanks for sharing your update and great to hear you have found a supportive and knowledgeable doctor! It makes a world of difference. Being fobbed off is a horrible feeling when you’re living with chronic pain! Wishing you all the best moving forward 😀
So sorry to hear the road to recovery is so painful and slow but I hope you can get the rest you need. It has taken me years to understand just how important a good relationship (which really means trust and understanding) with a doctor and other health professionals is. I am glad to hear you feel you have the right doctor and to know what you need. Best wishes for less stress, less pain and more fun stuff in your kitchen.
I only just saw this but am so sorry you’ve had such a tough run with your pain and that it’s still going on. It’s amazing you found the time to update us but I’m sure I’m not the only one who is grateful to hear from you as I’ve wondered what’s been happening and how you’re doing. Lots of well wishes xo
Knowing what’s wrong and finding the right doctor will surely help! So sorry for all you have been through but take care of yourself and get well. Trust me. There is more to life than blogging. At least I think so! LOL!
Dearest Maureen, I’m so glad that you pushed through and found a new doctor who believes you and helps you. XO I’m so sorry for your pain, yet so thrilled that you are putting you first and looking after your dear self. You are so loved and such a bright spot in so many lives, including mine. XO
Oh, my gosh, I’m so sorry, Maureen, but I’m glad you finally have a diagnosis. Take good care of yourself, my friend. Miss you!!!
Wow, what a long, painful journey getting to a proper diagnosis! sending you virtual hugs and good wishes on moving forward with treatment and therapy; putting yourself first sounds like a sensible first step.
here i was all this time thinking i had commented here and wished you all the best. so i am doing it now. i am glad that you have a diagnosis at last and can look at getting pain relief etc. how awful it is to be laid up. my cranky old bones get crankier and it is damn annoying. many best wishes to you. xxx
Maureen, I hope you get better and can get back to blogging soon. It must be so frustrating to be in pain and not be able to move much. I’ll be looking out for your next post!
Hope you are feeling much better and it’s good to out your self first:) xx
Oh my goodness Maureen. I’m so sorry to hear of your stressful pain & disgusting journey with an uncaring doctor, but super happy to know things are looking up with a diagnosis.
Take care my friend xx
Good to know that you are doing great.
Hope this Christmas season finds you well and you have found the right ways to heal. All the best to you <3 -Laila
Sending you Christmas greetings and hope your New Year is a joy – certainly more pain free than the past year!