Tuesday, December 16, 2008

It is what it is

So apparently you shouldn't listen to a temporary medical assistant who answers the phone and tries to read your test results.

I DO in fact have MS or multiple sclerosis. There is no cure for this disease, only treatment.

The test results are more complex than negative or positive and should have only been read by the neurologist. Now we are faced with the reality of what this disease has in store for me and what I have in store for it. The good news is we have caught it early and there are several drug options. Our next step is to research the drugs and apply to the companies to see what financial assistance they offer. They cost an average of $2000/month and it doesn't look like our insurance will cover much (30%).
What does this mean for me? I need to stay healthy, active and avoid stress as much as possible. Injected drugs will be a daily or every few days part of life to control symptoms. New drugs in the forms of patches or pills are being tested right now so keep your fingers crossed that they are available soon.
One concern was having more children. The doctor said no problem but I won't be able to take my drugs during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If I insisted on breastfeeding she would only recommend 3 months and then to get back on the medication.
We may also seek a second opinion especially since I still have the secondary issue of the abnormal vessel. We cancelled the MRI scheduled in January but will have another one in 3-6 months to see if the vessel has made any changes or turns out to be plaque related to the MS.

My head is spinning with information and I am tired tonight but overall feel great. MS is not going to define who I am, it will only be another chapter to the rich and full life I already have.

3 comments:

Shem the Wrench said...

bugger.

keep up the positivity, my dear - i've learned firsthand and through watching others that a positive outlook and a healthy, happy heart are huge factors in maintaining your vibrancy and helping to heal yourself.

i'm so proud of you for having the wits to get yourself checked out at the first sign that something was wrong. is early detection a good thing?

my thoughts are with you! you're awesome.

-emily

Lindley Family said...

I'm so sorry, Christina! Please keep us all informed as to what steps come next and let me know if you need anything...or want to get out for a walk...or anything.

McCabe Family said...

Christina, Luke and Eliza,

We love you. Our family seems to be filled with super heroes lately. Already, your determination and positive attitude are evidence of your strength of character, dignity, courage and ability to inspire others to take all that life presents us with and to move forward in a positve light. Please know that our family is here in whatever way you may need us.

smiles and love,

Julie, Jerry, Molly & Michael