Hi Everyone,
I just wanted to update you on my Benlysta journey. I just had my 5th treatment and so far, so good. I am down to 2.5 mg. of Prednisone and having no problems with the reduction like I have in the past. I did end up with those crazy red bruises on the skin surface of my arms when I was out working in the garden over the week-end. Hopefully, when I am off the Prednisone, those will go away with time. The one thing that I have noticed with the reduction of the Prednisone is that my osteoarthritis is much more noticeable. We have had some chilly, damp weather here on the north coast of California, and my body has been responding with its normal weather-vane approach to it. What that means is more soreness and stiffness in the affected joints (neck, hands and elbows). What is wonderful about the Benlysta is that I have so much more energy. It has made working so much more rewarding. What I don't appreciate is the cost. When I got the first statement from Blue Shield, I screamed. It seems so unfair that I am able to access this drug because I have good insurance, and others can't because of the cost. Hopefully, that will change some day. I will keep you posted as I travel along in this journey.
Laura (Oreo11)