thanks so much Lynnwood. It is really a lot of help to me, to know that if I worry that plaquenil will do something to my eyes, I can always go to this place you created and check my eyes. i really do over-react to things, and get paranoid about it if I feel powerless to do anything on my own. this way we are all empowered who takes plaquenil.
One of the hardest things for me about Lupus is losing so much of my independence. Learning to do the things that really have to be done, and letting the rest go, is to give up my independence. My neighbor cuts my grass for me now. I used to cut it by myself. I would still be too sick for two days after, but I could still do it. I would clean the house really good, and then cut the grass, and then lay on the couch for two days when it felt like I had the flu. today I cannot even do this. Just minimal time in the sun has an effect.
I "want" to drive a car that is clean inside and out. But I don't "need" to have a clean car. Learning what is needed as opposed to what is wanted, has been difficult. My house used to be so clean, and now it is neat, sort of, but not clean. Not the clean the way I used to keep it. So much energy I used to have, and this is no more.
But I am learning to be thankful for the little things. Thankful that lupus did not hit me the hardest until my kids were grown. I got my babies raised first, and was there for most of my grandchildren. The great grandbabies will never know that part of me because I can no longer take care of babies. But at least I had the ability for a long time.
Having sjogren's was just one more thing to add to the list. and i didn't want to add anything else. still i am grateful that I waited til I was 62 to be diagnosed with it.
your creation for us has allowed me to get back some of that empowerment, and independence. It is greatly appreciated.
Hester