So, instead of getting better after the steroid treatment, I am actually getting worse. In many ways I’m back to the fall of 2011 when I couldn’t eat properly, not only from the pain, but from my whole GI tract being out of whack. While I’m able to swallow, food sits in my stomach for a long time, plus there is serious constipation again.

So, as is my nature, I have been doing everything I can to help myself and seeing lots of health professionals/complementary health providers. Yet, this is so discouraging to be right back here so quickly. I do not want to go to the hospital again. I do not want tube feeds. I procrastinated on doing up an Advanced Directive as I’ve been meaning to and here we are when I very likely need it. So, no time to waste . . . I’ll finish it today and get it signed.

I am grateful for the four years I have had since diagnosis — a couple of them actually being quite good years! As I reflect on the last year, I think the stress of the two surgeries I had in Winnipeg had an impact on me as well as the bouts of pain. I don’t think I fully recovered.

I am doing everything I can to eat, drink fluids, and sleep. I’ve lost a fair bit of weight and lost all my energy while grocery shopping on Friday afternoon.

Wish me well. And pray for me if you are so inclined.