Hi all, the reactions to my heart valve operation and then the intense pain from RA (which couldn't be treated because of the healing process) has been varied. Some people write, cards (my favorite) others emails, phone calls weren't helpful as I couldn't talk. I had one person shoot around emails about my condition, but I didn't see them or know what she said! (I wish she had asked me). People have responded in the strangest ways. One person said, 'how did you get all that pain JUST from heart operation and RA? JUST!!. If you don't "get it" or "have it" RA doesn't LOOK like much. We can't walk as well or as fast, our hands though swollen do 'work' and the pains/stiffness doesn't show much. Knees hurting cause us to walk down the stairs one at a time. I liked the post 'you don't have to look sick to be sick' or YOu have to look sick to be sick',? I think that's a major problem with getting help with this disease. The government doesn't get it! Generally, At the supermarkets if I need something heavy I tell the clerks, I drive slower and more cautiously because I have slower reactions, I can't open most of the packages that come from the supermarket (I have sissers, etc. close by to help my husband opens everthing) My art work is strange right now, but interestingly different, the people in my class are amazed that I can hold the charcoal!, everwhere I go in my old world people say 'how are you'? They are happy I am out and about as it has been since October 06!, since I 'was well' or before I got pneumonia/the heart murmur showed up and the operation! It's been a long road back for me and you of this forum understood the most. Strangers who have been through this feel the pain, stiffness, my happiness. Thanks all.hurts I pray all your hurts go away or may you cope with them better.Ive been on forum for sometime, have OA (old age my version)...trying pain management, prayers for patience, went through all the phases looking for help..have met some very courageous people here and have followed alot of their hints/clues/advise as we are all in one big boat. My next recourse,,,,acupuncture, reflexology would even try voodoo if u know what I mean. desperate that is. good luck continue for you
regards rose
thank you Rose, I hope acupuncture & reflexology help. Will you let me know, please.i live in Canada have appt for April 2nd, that is my last recourse, am on demerol/tylenol arthritis now.....dopey all the time..tks for you reply will certainly let u know how it goes have a good day Rose
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