Precious

I'm a 51 yr. old mother of 3 grown daughter and 7 grandchildren. I'm married to my high school sweetheart, Dave, for 32 yrs. I was employeed as a nurse until this craziness started in my life. I was diagnosed with pulmonary sarc in April 2001 by bronchoscopy with biopsy which was positive for sarc.

 My whole life changed that month. The same month I was diagnosed with Melanoma (type of skin cancer) After 2 surgeries for the Melanoma and clearance to start meds I was started on Prednisone and Methotrexate. The first yr wasn't too bad after I got use to the tests and more tests. Then the second yr I started on what I call the sarc roller coaster. One month I would be ok and then the next month I would have a flare-up. My meds were constantly being increased and decreased. Then I had plaquenil, nexium, neurontin, folic acid, nebulizer breathing treatments and c-pap machine added. I now have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, neuropathy from damage due to the prednisone, diabetes due to the prednisone, and high blood pressure. I have learned to accept with the grace of God this wild disease called sarc. I see a local pulmonologist and a specialist in Cincinnati OH, Dr.Robert Baughman.
Somehow you manage with good days and bad, but you get through it. You learn to smile through the tears. Yes its normal to cry over an imperfect body and world. I'm stage 2 sarc at this time and have come to realize that it is here to stay. If it weren't for my wonderful husband there are days that I wouldn't even be able to make it. He has become a great cook and housekeeper and listening ear.
Finding Sarcoid Connection has given him a bit of a break cause at least now I have someone to listen except for him. I think that his ears were getting worn out. LOL My advice to any of you reading this is to research every piece of information that you can get your hands on and don't except any advice that you aren't sure of. Also keep you doctor appts., take your meds, eat healthy, get out in the sunshine when you are able and rest when you aren't. Enjoy your good days and on bad days, know that good ones will come soon. Know that all of the sarc group are here for you. This site was the greatest thing that came into my life when it did. I learn something new everyday. Someone taught me a smart lesson one day and I'll pass it on to all of you. The Lord Will Not Bring You To It If He Can't Get You Through It! Always know that the Lord Jesus Christ is with us in good times and bad and especially in our darkest moments. May your days be full of love and sunshine. Enjoy each day. God Bless and Keep Smiling. Love and Hugs                                                                             

PRECIOUS