The Beginning

Today I went back to Nashville to begin my treatment. This week of Fall Break has consisted of many doctor's appointments So my trips this week haven't been as fun and relaxing as some! Tuesday, my first trip to Nashville this week was for the MRI. I have already had two this summer so I thought it would be a piece of cake. Not so lucky! I had heard stories about people freaking out when they get into the MRI cavity but I never could figure out why until this time. This time, I had a little panic attack and they had to give me some "calming medication" in order to get me back in there, but I am glad that I did it because it was from this MRI that Dr. Hunter was able to see the leisons that had been missed on the first MRI's. Today, based on the new MRI and the test he did last week, he was able to begin my treatment. This was day one of a 3 day round of Solu Medrol steroid IV infusions. I had the first one in Nashville today and I can have the remaining two in Paducah, one tomorrow (Friday) and the last one on Monday. After that I will begin my daily injections of Rebif. This medication will help slow the progression of the Relapsing Remitting M.S. I will go back to Nashville in three weeks to see if I need another round of steroid infusions. I will have to be on some type of medication for the rest of my life to help slow the progression of the disease. My sister was able to go with me today and she and I talked about what we saw while I was getting my infusion. It was really difficult to see and talk to the patients who were there for treatments who were in different stages of the disease. I am still going to keep a positive attitude and try to keep a low stress level. Keep praying and I will keep updating when I can!

After I read this I remembered that I wanted to add a huge thanks to my wonderful cousin Lisa who took the day off on Tuesday to drive me to Nashville for my MRI. She did a good job helping me when they had to give me the valium! Also I want to thank my sister who took a day off on Thursday to go with me.Its not just my appointments that I have had to get help with though. My co-worker Brittany was gracious enough to take Lyndsey to an appointment that I already had scheduled Thursday and my Uncle-in-law Roy Gene picked her up. As I mentioned before I am not someone who likes to ask for help, but I am learning that I have to. I know that taking off of work can always be costly and I thank God everyday for all of the wonderful people who are helping me especially my wonderful husband who is great with the house and kids.