GLOW

I'm at a bit of a loss as to how I should begin this post. It has been so many years, at times I could say my entire life, that I have been dealing with inexplicable and troubling symptoms without a diagnosis from the many doctors and specialists that I've seen. It has now been a little over a week since I visited a rheumatologist for the first time and was quickly diagnosed with Lupus, an auto-immune disease in which your body's immune system becomes over-active and attacks its own tissues and/or nerves, precipitating a great deal of symptoms from mild to life-threatening. My diagnosis happens to coincide with Lupus Awareness Month, so though I have been tempted to retreat into the solace of my proclaimed "break" from my blog, I thought it more appropriate for me to step out into the light for a bit and share the news. There is much that I could and would like to say on the subject, but given that the discomfort with typing much remains, I will be brief. I have experienced a myriad of emotions as a result of the diagnosis: from relief and joy over finally having a name and an understanding of what my body has been going through to, well frankly, fear over what my body is going through. My deepest gratitude goes to those who have supported, loved and encouraged me over the past decade of struggle; much love and light to you all. 

Understanding Lupus from the Lupus Foundation of America

Dear readers, I feel as though I must at this time be kind to myself and take a bit of a break from posting here. It may only be for a week, it may be longer, but given that this is also slated as a blog about health, I thought it appropriate to let you know, and offer somewhat of an explanation. As I've mentioned before, I have (and have had for coming on 10 years) chronic health problems, and my symptoms wax and wane from time to time. I have recently had some significant flare-ups, and along with a gamut of other lovely symptoms, my nerve inflammation has been more severe over the past week, partially because of a new physical therapy regiment that is aimed at decreasing muscle tension that pinches the main nerves in both of my arms. It is very uncomfortable for me to type at this time, so although I have much I'd like to share with you right now, food and health-wise, I must be realistic and give my body the rest that it clearly needs. To my dear friends and family members, thank you as always for your support, and hopefully I will return shortly.