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Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn & Gary
Sunday September 5, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 23 hours, 4 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ Owner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...

Are you sure the doctor was reading the right report?
poppysmakayla <poppysmakayla@...
Well I hope that I find everyone is doing as good as expected. I
just have to get this off my chest, I was unable to sleep very good
last night on kind of this. I went to see a brand new Dr, he is the
cheif,division of surgery at long Island Jewish hospital in New York.
This is a well known hospital on long Island. He presented himself
in a
very professional manner. He reviewed my history of pancreatitis
then examined me. He asked us to come into his office so that he
could talk with Carol and me. I was told to bring a copy of the cat
scan I just had on monday with the report. The hospital puts the cats
scan on a Cd now, but there was no report. He took his time and
explained every thing in the cat scan to us. he showed us that the
tail of my pancreas was gone, all you could see was the duct that was
left. The he proceeded to show us that the head of the pancreas was
enlarged and said that there was a calcium build up. he also said
that there was a stone in the head along with a possiable tumor under
the stone. He also said that there was no cancer, that was the best
news.
He told me that he was bringing my cat scan to his radiolagy dept to
get a second opinion. That made us feel good. Then he explaned the
pluses and minuses of the operation. He also told me that I would
become a full blown diabetic, and that I still might have the pain
after the operation. He told me that this was a very major surgery
and it would take about 6 1/2 hrs and 10 to 14 days in the hospital.
He drew us a diagram of the pancreas and showed me what he would have
to remove. His main concern was he doesn't know what happened to the
tail of my pancrease and why the head is enlarged.
Then he said to me I want you to go home and think about this
operation. He also wanted me to come back in a month. He told me
that he wants to get to know me better and I can get to know him,
he said this is something you don't rush into and it was not an
emergency. I have to tell you I was very happy to know that there is
no cancer. So off we went to go home. I told carol I was upset that
there was no report so when we got home I called the hospital to get
the report.
I went and picked up the report first thing this morning. I read it
and could not believe my eyes. this is what it said " Impression:
Except for fatty infiltration of the liver and status post
cholecystectomy, unremarkable Ct of the abdomen. No radiologic of
pancreatitis is discerned. The previously described findings of
pancreatitis with pseudocyst on prior study of 02/02/04 are no longer
present". I would like to know what cat scan this jerk at the
hospital read because it wasn't mine, not after the doctor showing us
every picture and explaing what it was. Like I started out with,
OUR LIFE IS IN THEIR HANDS. So the moral of this story is to get a Dr
that you can trust and that explains everything to you. This has left
a bitter taste in my mouth of the Radiolagy Dept in the hospital that
I had the cat scan done. I am sorry that I rambled on but if carol
and I didn't see the Cat scan in the Dr office we would still be
scratching our heads.
Have a good day and thanks for listening,
PoppysMakayla Bruce
Long Island New York
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

This is the cabin that we all stayed at in Brookings here in Oregon.
It is very nice on the inside, wasn't allowed to take many pictures of cabin in
respect of the owners, but took a few that was allowed.
The care takers of this place are on the bottom floor in the back that isn't
able to be seen from the front.
The top window on the left is a bedroom, the middle window is a bathroom and the
other top window on the right is another bedroom.
The bedroom we had is in the back, and the living room floor has a bedroom with
a bathroom.
Have A Great Day,
jlm_1972
Wavy Baby
No matter what you go through,
God is there with you, even though you
can't see Him, He is there.

Hi everybody
Well I hope that I find everyone is doing as good as expected. I
just have to get this off my chest, I was unable to sleep very good
last night on kind of this. I went to see a brand new Dr, he is the
cheif,division of surgery at long Island Jewish hospital in New York.
This is a well known hospital on long Island. He presented himself
in a
very professional manner. He reviewed my history of pancreatitis
then examined me. He asked us to come into his office so that he
could talk with Carol and me. I was told to bring a copy of the cat
scan I just had on monday with the report. The hospital puts the cats
scan on a Cd now, but there was no report. He took his time and
explained every thing in the cat scan to us. he showed us that the
tail of my pancreas was gone, all you could see was the duct that was
left. The he proceeded to show us that the head of the pancreas was
enlarged and said that there was a calcium build up. he also said
that there was a stone in the head along with a possiable tumor under
the stone. He also said that there was no cancer, that was the best
news.
He told me that he was bringing my cat scan to his radiolagy dept to
get a second opinion. That made us feel good. Then he explaned the
pluses and minuses of the operation. He also told me that I would
become a full blown diabetic, and that I still might have the pain
after the operation. He told me that this was a very major surgery
and it would take about 6 1/2 hrs and 10 to 14 days in the hospital.
He drew us a diagram of the pancreas and showed me what he would have
to remove. His main concern was he doesn't know what happened to the
tail of my pancrease and why the head is enlarged.
Then he said to me I want you to go home and think about this
operation. He also wanted me to come back in a month. He told me
that he wants to get to know me better and I can get to know him,
he said this is something you don't rush into and it was not an
emergency. I have to tell you I was very happy to know that there is
no cancer. So off we went to go home. I told carol I was upset that
there was no report so when we got home I called the hospital to get
the report.
I went and picked up the report first thing this morning. I read it
and could not believe my eyes. this is what it said " Impression:
Except for fatty infiltration of the liver and status post
cholecystectomy, unremarkable Ct of the abdomen. No radiologic of
pancreatitis is discerned. The previously described findings of
pancreatitis with pseudocyst on prior study of 02/02/04 are no longer
present". I would like to know what cat scan this jerk at the
hospital read because it wasn't mine, not after the doctor showing us
every picture and explaing what it was. Like I started out with,
OUR LIFE IS IN THEIR HANDS. So the moral of this story is to get a Dr
that you can trust and that explains everything to you. This has left
a bitter taste in my mouth of the Radiolagy Dept in the hospital that
I had the cat scan done. I am sorry that I rambled on but if carol
and I didn't see the Cat scan in the Dr office we would still be
scratching our heads.
Have a good day and thanks for listening,
PoppysMakayla Bruce
Long Island New York

Just letting everyone in Florida know you are in my prayers that you are safe as
well as those who are special to you. Hope that the damage is minor. Frances
is definately a very big girl by now. Cherish those you know and those you
love. Keeping Prayers going for you all.
Kelly from Oklahoma
Loretta Greer <loretta0416@...
I also wanted to say all of you in Florida are in my thoughts. Frances does
sound huge. I have friends and family there, mostly east coast, so you guys are
definitely on my mind.
Lorettta Greer
Tennessee
Have a good day and God Bless!
Mt 17:20 -
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you,
If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain,
Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
impossible unto you

www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Rhonda,
Amanda and your family are on my mind. I will be praying for you. Hope she
gets to feeling better.
Loretta Greer
Tennessee
Have a good day and God Bless!
Mt 17:20 -
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you,
If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain,
Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
impossible unto you

I also wanted to say all of you in Florida are in my thoughts. Frances does
sound huge. I have friends and family there, mostly east coast, so you guys are
definitely on my mind.
Lorettta Greer
Tennessee
Have a good day and God Bless!
Mt 17:20 -
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you,
If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain,
Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
impossible unto you

Dear Laura,
seems this is the week for docs to be difficult!! Hope you get some relief
soon. Having to deal with the pain on a daily basis is starting to get the best
of me I believe. Hopefully your meeting will go in your favor and not add to
the stress of dealing with this disease every day without a vacation.
Just wanted to let ya know you are not alone. Hope you have a relaxing
holiday and are in as little pain as possible. Best wishes and prayers.
wishing for painfree days and restful nights.
Kelly from Oklahoma
she_remembers <she_remembers@...
I tried to get a prescription for my Percocet today - don't need
until Monday, but since Monday's a holiday I called today and told
them that was why. Well, now I'm getting the "well, he's not going
to keep doing this ya know" routine. I told his nurse that I'm
having a he** of a time of it since this procedure and that I didn't
NEED them today but knew Monday was a holiday and that I would need
then. They have been filling every week for the past 3 weeks so I
don't know why it's such a big surprise now!! She also said "well,
what did that guy (meaning Dr L) out in "ohio" do anyway?" So I
asked if they had gotten the copy of the procedure rpt yet and she
said she'd have to look!! Sheesh...so here we go on this. So have
to make meds last until Tuesday and have to see him at 11:30...she
also said we're probably going to have to send you to a pain mgmt
specialist soon. So, that's the scoop here. I'm feeling worse now
but it's also time to change my patch....so will go do that now..
love
Laura
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

I tried to get a prescription for my Percocet today - don't need
until Monday, but since Monday's a holiday I called today and told
them that was why. Well, now I'm getting the "well, he's not going
to keep doing this ya know" routine. I told his nurse that I'm
having a he** of a time of it since this procedure and that I didn't
NEED them today but knew Monday was a holiday and that I would need
then. They have been filling every week for the past 3 weeks so I
don't know why it's such a big surprise now!! She also said "well,
what did that guy (meaning Dr L) out in "ohio" do anyway?" So I
asked if they had gotten the copy of the procedure rpt yet and she
said she'd have to look!! Sheesh...so here we go on this. So have
to make meds last until Tuesday and have to see him at 11:30...she
also said we're probably going to have to send you to a pain mgmt
specialist soon. So, that's the scoop here. I'm feeling worse now
but it's also time to change my patch....so will go do that now..
love
Laura

Dear Rhonda,
I am so sorry that Amanda is ill again and in so much pain. She has really
been on my mind alot this week and I was praying that the holiday would find her
out in the sunshine and playing in the water at one of the many lakes. I guess
this week all the docs are really wore out and looking forward to a 3 day
weekend!!! That is about the only excuse I am willing to give them at this
time. My mind keeps goin over my last appt trying to figure out if I had
handled it all wrong or misunderstood but I pretty much quoted everything that
was said to me and have come to the conclusion that it really did happen the way
I remember!! And being that I keep rehashing the whole thing my pain level has
elevated and made itself known for sure. I keep looking for that elusive magic
fairy or leprechaun to make all of our nightmares with this disease and the
medical field go away but have had no such luck yet. Tho will keep looking!!!
Tell babygirl that I am saying extra special prayers
for her and all the family and that if I could I would be there in a heartbeat
and take it all away from her. It is so unfair for babies to be experiencing
this kind of illness and pain at this time in their young lives or at any time
at all!
But until I find that magical being and get my wishes tell her to hang in
there and be as strong as she can be and that alot of people are thinking of
her. Maybe tomorrow a brilliant mind will find a miracle under their microscope
and we will all be able to live normal and painfree lives.
When the pain gets bad for her tell her to keep her eyes open for quick
twinkle of light.....that is just me sending her a smile and very very soft
hugs!!!!
Will close for now but please feel free to write anytime.
WISHING FOR PAINFREE DAYS AND RESTFUL NIGHTS
KELLY FROM DOWN SOUTH OF YA !!!!!
Rhonda <rhonda.chitwood@...
Hello everyone. Think I will follow Kelly's sentiments about
frustration. Maybe, there was just a black cloud over Oklahoma this
week. Amanda's local peditrician who is normally very supportive and
helpful was just the opposite this week. Since our GI doc is out of
state, we rely heavily on her when Amanda gets sick. Amanda has felt
bad all week, but since her enzyme level's weren't elevated, Dr.
Mickle really gave us the cold shoulder and didn't want to help us
with pain management. We were trying tylenol with codeine at home,
but it didn't give relief. She couldn't keep anything down and this
medicine only aggravated her stomach. So, she has been vomiting and
in pain for three days. Yesterday, Dr Rothbaum (her GI doctor) said
enough is enough, she needs to get some iv fluids and some relief,
and advised we go on to the hospital. So here we are, back in the
hospital. I'm just hoping that a night or two of rest, some pain
relief, and the fluids will help her get over this attack.
In the meantime, Dr Rothbaum is getting us a referral package
together to see a pain management doctor here in Tulsa. If we can
find a pain med that will work at home, think we can manage better at
home.
Sorry for the long post. Wishing everyone a painfree day.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Hello Rhonda
I will keep Amanda in my daily prayers and you as well. I hope that you
are able to get all of this worked out so she will not have to live in daily
pain. God Bless you and yours
Michael karns
Rhonda <rhonda.chitwood@...
Hello everyone. Think I will follow Kelly's sentiments about
frustration. Maybe, there was just a black cloud over Oklahoma this
week. Amanda's local peditrician who is normally very supportive and
helpful was just the opposite this week. Since our GI doc is out of
state, we rely heavily on her when Amanda gets sick. Amanda has felt
bad all week, but since her enzyme level's weren't elevated, Dr.
Mickle really gave us the cold shoulder and didn't want to help us
with pain management. We were trying tylenol with codeine at home,
but it didn't give relief. She couldn't keep anything down and this
medicine only aggravated her stomach. So, she has been vomiting and
in pain for three days. Yesterday, Dr Rothbaum (her GI doctor) said
enough is enough, she needs to get some iv fluids and some relief,
and advised we go on to the hospital. So here we are, back in the
hospital. I'm just hoping that a night or two of rest, some pain
relief, and the fluids will help her get over this attack.
In the meantime, Dr Rothbaum is getting us a referral package
together to see a pain management doctor here in Tulsa. If we can
find a pain med that will work at home, think we can manage better at
home.
Sorry for the long post. Wishing everyone a painfree day.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Hi Everyone -
I just heard on the radio they expect hurricane Frances to hit Florida some time
tonite and that it's as big as the STATE OF TEXAS!! Holy Cow! They said 2
million people have been evacuated from Florida already!
All of you in Florida and surrounding areas will be in my prayers. I hope
everyone gets thru this okay. Please email the group when you can and let us
know how you make out.
Cathie in PA

Hello everyone. Think I will follow Kelly's sentiments about
frustration. Maybe, there was just a black cloud over Oklahoma this
week. Amanda's local peditrician who is normally very supportive and
helpful was just the opposite this week. Since our GI doc is out of
state, we rely heavily on her when Amanda gets sick. Amanda has felt
bad all week, but since her enzyme level's weren't elevated, Dr.
Mickle really gave us the cold shoulder and didn't want to help us
with pain management. We were trying tylenol with codeine at home,
but it didn't give relief. She couldn't keep anything down and this
medicine only aggravated her stomach. So, she has been vomiting and
in pain for three days. Yesterday, Dr Rothbaum (her GI doctor) said
enough is enough, she needs to get some iv fluids and some relief,
and advised we go on to the hospital. So here we are, back in the
hospital. I'm just hoping that a night or two of rest, some pain
relief, and the fluids will help her get over this attack.
In the meantime, Dr Rothbaum is getting us a referral package
together to see a pain management doctor here in Tulsa. If we can
find a pain med that will work at home, think we can manage better at
home.
Sorry for the long post. Wishing everyone a painfree day.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK

Hello, I am not going to be helping out at our church school this year, I am
just not feeling up to this round.
I just don't have the strength and the energy to do any assisting. I am always
waking up feeling tired too early and not feeling good each time I wake up.
Things here are going ok, hubby works tonight, but starts daytime work on
Saturday, so instead of working at 6pm til 6am he will start at 6am and off at
6pm, I really miss him being home a night, its been more than 4-5 years since he
has been home at night while working.
So, that is an update from here.

Hi all,
Bless you all for being here.
I have been lurking for a while. To give you all a little hisotry, my
son age 22 was diagnosed twoi years ago. Tonight his is in theh osopital
for the fifth day of his eith visist. My don did this to himeslef with
drugs and alscohol. he moved back to the city where we live and got back
with his friend last Friday. He was hospitalized on Tuesday night. I am so
angry with him.
I have approached this differently this tiem, I wantede to accuse him,
ask him how much he drank, did he do drugs. This time I simply asked him if
he thought he deserved better. He did not answer me, but seems to be less
angry with me.
The hospital is threatening to involuntarily commit him to the detox unit.
I am all for it.
I know if I do anything he will once again be estranged, which is better at
least he is alive. I do not want to be codependent.
Please excuse the bad typingtonight, I am heartbroken and exhausted.
Helen is South Dakota

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat ~ Robert & Denise
Friday September 3, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 21 hours, 3 minutes.
Event Location: AOL TPP Chatroom
Street: AOL chatroom called "TPP Chat"
Phone: 434-409-7162
Notes:

Hi Rudy
I'm glad your home and the surgery is over. Please take it slow and easy.
Warm thoughts......Pam ga
rvanleke <dobber481@...
Hello everybody, I am back from hospital. Feeling weak, have still
some pain on the place of the operation. it wasn't one hernia, there
were two of them. The surgeon spotted the second when he was doing
his job. For now, I must have a lot of patience to recover and also
a lot of rest. I wish to welcome Tyla in TPP. Tyla I had also
drinking problems and the chronic pancreatitis was caused by
alcohol. First thing to do now is to stop immediatelly. Look in the
phonebook and search for help. Your life can depend on that. When
you have any questions please ask them and do not be afraid or
ashamed. Thanks for joining this wonderfull family Tyla.
Warmgreetings from Ostend, Belgium, Rudy
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

HI Brenda
I was glad to read your post that you are back in the swing of
things. We have all been wondering how you were doing, we were just
talking about you in the chat room sunday. Pollys son Jon told us
that his mom was talking with you and things were getting better.
I have to agree with you about these Drs and Morphine. They just
don't understand it is no good for us. My pain Dr put me on Morphine
pills and I wound up in the hospital for a week. I am very glad that
you are up and back to work. I have to tell you that gator you sent
me is doing great, he swins in the pool and just lays around the yard
and doesn't bother a sole. The kids in the neighbor hood just love
him.
Be Well and stay well
Bruce
Long island New York

Poor Michelle, seems that when it rains, it pours, huh?
Thanks for the names of her med's. We have tried Hydrocodone, but
that doesn't give Amanda any relief. She has been feeling very
poorly last few days and we are really trying to avoid a trip to the
hospital, but she is not getting any pain relief right now. Her
enzyme levels are all normal and her local peditrician is not being
very responsive. I appreciate the info.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK

Dear {{{{{{{{{{{{ Christina}}}}}}}}}}}}},
Thank you so much for your interest in TPP Kids. I have not planned
for more than just this initial meeting tonight to get the project
off the ground. The main purpose of the meeting tonight is to find
out who is interested in helping and to gather some ideas for the
group. Most likely any subsequent meetings will be held on the
weekend or during the day, if interested parties are available. I
too have commitments that restrict my schedule.
Do your kids have any favorite websites? Maybe a game site they
like visiting. If yes, can you possibly email me the links? And of
course it will be a "locked" site. Open only to kids who have a
parent in TPP. We are also opened to other venues for the chats
once they are started.
I will write to you in a private email, probably tomorrow (not
feeling the best today) and I am hoping we can set up some time to
maybe share some ideas and brain storm on the phone.
Once again thanks so very much for your interest in this much needed
project. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Lots of Gentle Hugs,
ReeAnn ~ Virginia
(434) 409-7162 or
(434) 979-0176
Founder ~ ThePancreatitisPlace www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Kelly,
You are not crazy and I'm sorry to hear about your recent doctors
visit. Our medical system is really lacking and people like us have
to suffer. So frustrating when you are in pain and you feel like no
one believes you, especially your doctor. Hang in there, remember
that you are not alone.
Rhonda
Tulsa, OK

Hello Everyone,
Just a reminder about tonight's TPP Kids meeting this evening. It will be
held in the TPP Chatroom at 8:30pm. In order to access the chatroom you will
need AOL or their free messenger program AIM (_www.aim.com_
(http://www.aim.com) ). Please add me to your buddy list "ReeAnn" and I will
send you a link
to the meeting room. If you need help installing AIM, you can reach me on

Hello everybody,
I hope this finds you all in as little pain as we are fortunate to recieve
at times. Just wanted to fuss a little about the medical proffession for a sec
so please don't hold anything I say against me in the future. I had my monthly
doc appt yesterday morning and I was there early as usual. I have been having a
flare up since last Thurs and have strectched out my pain meds to last to my
appt because once again I got the wrong pain med and not enough of the right
ones. This was the sixth time for this to happen in the last 4 months. Anyway,
I finally get called in to see my doc and am sitting in the examining room when
my doc finally walks in after I waited for an hour. She first asks how I am and
I let her know that things have been decent but that I have been having a flare
up since the Thurs prior. She then proceeds to tell me that she and the
hospital committee have flagged my chart because of all the pain meds I have had
to take, tells me I am a drug addict, she is
not totally convinced that I actually have pancreatitis whether chronic or
acute because My blood levels haven't been elevated in a month or so and the cat
scan we did 2 months ago showed no major signs of damage to my pancreas and that
she believes that all the pain I have been dealing with is in my mind!!!! I
was already hurting as it was and now this!!!!
She also stated that she was concerned that I have had to use the ER a few times
as well as insisting on getting my meds. But when I reminded her that she is
the reason I had ran out of meds and was told to go to ER when throwing up and
in bad pain, well, then, she just sat there and looked at me! I lost all
control,bad enough to be hurting on a dailey basis but to now have the one
person I trusted most to understand what I am going thru to turn everything
around to the only reason I keep getting refills is that I am addicted!!
The pain and illness is only in my mind!! I guess the 4 meds she has me taking
to keep levels down is just a figment of my imagination because they are
working!! And now she has the bright idea to let me start going to the pain
clinic which is something I have been asking for for months!!!! I just could
not believe what she was saying to me!! Oh yeah,she is also leaving at the end
of October so she had to find me a Dr. anyway. Then had the nerve to tell me
that its best for me to do as she says or I will be unable to use the system!!!!
"DO NOT BE CONFRONTATIONAL WITH ANYBODY IN THIS SYSTEM IF YOU WANT TO CONTINUE
IN THIS SYSTEM!" Excuse me but that sounds a lot like a threat. I was so
upset, crying, shaking. I just could not believe my ears!!!
I was totally blindsided by this!!! I told her, " All I have ever done is take
exactly what you tell me to take and do everything you say I need to do to keep
the pain level down to a minimum and now you are saying that you never believed
my story to begin with? What happenend , did you get called on the carpet for
overstepping your bounds with all the narcotics and your way out is to lay all
the blame on me?" She never answered me,just sat there looking at me.
Needless to say she wouldn't come back in the room with me just sent a
nurse to ask any ques and relay messages. I have an appt. with my new doc on the
10th of Sept. I am very curious to see the report he receives. The prob with the
new doc is that he is a P.A. only who's major interest is pain and pain
control. I am a little nervous to say the least.
I am sorry this turned into a novel but I had to get it off my chest and see
if anyone has any ideas or should I have just shut my big mouth and let her do
her worst or what? I know I shouldn't have blown up but when you are already
hurting and then you are pretty much called a lier by your own doc who you are
supposed to trust, it was too much to handle calmly. I will close now. Please,
if anyone has any comments and\or ideas please feel free to email me anytime. Am
I losing my mind or making up my symptoms like i was accused? I think not!
Sincerely,
Kelly from Oklahoma

Yes, I understand completely what you are describing. There was a
period of time that I had to catherize myself to be able to urinate.
I wake up everyday with my hands numb and painful, I have had carpal
tunnel syndrome in the past ( so they say) I find that if I take a B
complex vitamin it will stop the pain during the day Although it
does not help with the morning numbness, I drop things alot, silly
things that I shouldn't. As a nurse I know there isn't a whole lot
that can be done for neuropathy, other than neurotin and I can't
take neurotin or baclofen, one of these two drugs destroyed my
knees, I had a reaction to one of them causing my knees to become so
swollen that I could not walk, and has severly damaged my joints,
all of my joints. I have often wondered if some of my symptoms were
not related to MS. At this time in my life I don't want or need
another diagnosis, for something they can do nothing about. I have
decided to just take my life one day at a time and let what is be.I
am truely grateful that I am still alive, there were times in the
past I did not think I would have lived as long as I have.
Lisa Atwell LPN

HI Tayla
My name is Bruce I am your age twice over and still find it hard to
take. Like youself I had my gallbladder out 7 years ago and that is
when it all started. I felt good for a couple of weeks after the
removal of my gallbladder. That did not last long I went 11/2 years
before anybody could tell me what was really wrong with me. I have
had chronic pancreatitis for 7 years now. I am sorry to tell you but
it just doesn't seem to go away. I take more pills then the Drugs
store has, I am also on pain medication to help the pain I have
24/7. You should not to try to deal with this yourself, we have
members that are by theselves and it is very hard on them. You had
mentioned that you have a partner that is with you, that is good for
you.
I am lucky that my wife and I have been married for 39 years. I find
that there are times that Ijust have to tell her whats on my mind and
how I feel. there are days that I tell her I have had it and she
tells me she don't want to here that kind of talk. She knows when I
get an attck what she can and can not do for me. She knows what to
cook for me and what I am not to eat. Chronic pancreatitis is a hard
diease to fight there are a lot of things you have to fight. Please
like you'r Dr said no alchol and watch you fat intake that is so
important. You must keep fighting as you are so young. so any time
you feel down and out post a post we all have them days. If you have
a good day share it with everybody It will make you feel better
Have a good day
Bruce
Long island New York

Welcome!
I myself have just recently been diagnosed with Pancreatitis. They still do not
know what is the cause. They thought it was my gallbladder (which they removed)
but that turned out not to be the case. I have been told that it is a disease
that is very hard to diagnose. Yes, you do need to make sure that you DO NOT
DRINK ANY ALCOHOL and watch your fat intake. Take one day at a time and do alot
of research. Also, which I know is hard to do but try to find a GOOD doctor.
One that takes the time and knows alot about the disease.
Take Care
Michelle
NC
"Tim (Tyla)" <timsnewemail@...
Hi There
My name is Tyla and I have just come out of hospital and been diagnosed
with Pancreatitis. At the age of 30 this has been quite a shock to say the least
and I had never even heard of the condition before. The doctors have told me
that I can never drink alcohol again as this will be dicing with death. As a
heavy drinker (another problem I need to address), this is hard news to take.
To say I no nothing about Pancreatitis is an understatement. I feel a bit
confused, a little sad and also not sure where to go from here.
I was really pleased to find this site and to see that it is active!
I am not sure what I am typing really at the moment as my head is swimming
with things, so sorry for rambling. Maybe I will try and make a more
constructive post when I have asked myself some more questions.....
Much as I hate to think of anyone else suffering to any degree it is comforting
to know that some of you will understand just how I am feeling right now. I live
with my partner and she has been very supportive but I know she is also
finding this hard and doesn't know how to deal with me, us and this damn
illness right now. I want her help, but I also want to be alone to deal with
this.
Anyway, this hasn't exactly been a cheerful first post. Thanks for letting me
join this group I am sure it will be of great help.
Tyla
P.S I am from Bristol, England am 30 years old and an artist, (if that's a
better
introduction than the ramble above)!
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
TPP Kids Meeting
Wednesday September 1, 2004
8:30 pm - 9:30 pm
This event does not repeat.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 21 hours, 4 minutes.
Event Location: TPP Chatroom on AOL
Street: AOL TPP Chatroom
Phone: 434-409-7162
Notes:
Volunteers meeting for TPP Kids held in the AOL TPP chatroom. For more information, please contact ReeAnn, founder of TPP.

Hi There
My name is Tyla and I have just come out of hospital and been diagnosed
with Pancreatitis. At the age of 30 this has been quite a shock to say the least
and I had never even heard of the condition before. The doctors have told me
that I can never drink alcohol again as this will be dicing with death. As a
heavy drinker (another problem I need to address), this is hard news to take.
To say I no nothing about Pancreatitis is an understatement. I feel a bit
confused, a little sad and also not sure where to go from here.
I was really pleased to find this site and to see that it is active!
I am not sure what I am typing really at the moment as my head is swimming
with things, so sorry for rambling. Maybe I will try and make a more
constructive post when I have asked myself some more questions.....
Much as I hate to think of anyone else suffering to any degree it is comforting
to know that some of you will understand just how I am feeling right now. I live
with my partner and she has been very supportive but I know she is also
finding this hard and doesn't know how to deal with me, us and this damn
illness right now. I want her help, but I also want to be alone to deal with
this.
Anyway, this hasn't exactly been a cheerful first post. Thanks for letting me
join this group I am sure it will be of great help.
Tyla
P.S I am from Bristol, England am 30 years old and an artist, (if that's a
better
introduction than the ramble above)!

Please put me back on the mailing list, i miss my box being full lol.
Thank You.
Have A Great Day,
jlm_1972
Wavy Baby
No matter what you go through,
God is there with you, even though you
can't see Him, He is there.

Hi Michael
I know we haven`t talked but i`ve been following your posts, sorry to hear
the latest. Prayers are headed your way for you and yours.
Regards, Dave

SOD is usually treated by a sphincterotomy of the muscle to lower its
internal pressure. Often times, that cut is held open by a stent,
a tiny tube. Was that done during your ERCP?
I underwent that more than one such procedure. Sadly, because the
earlier cuts were rather conservative, they would quickkly close and
the stents clogged.
The final "radical" more lengthy cut really opened up my
sphincter of Oddi. I've not had SOD ever since. In fact,recent
abdominal CT scans revealed some free air which indicates that the
cut is still open
That cut was performed by Dr. Jerome Siegel of New York City,
a pioneer in the field of GI endoscopy.
-Ellen

Glad you are home now Michael.
Kimber
--
Kimber Allen
Vallejo, CA
hominid2@...
Note: All advice given is personal opinion, not equal to that of a licensed
physician or health care professional.

Hi Pam -
Thanx for the advice. I am already doing that (leaning forward to push out
whatever urine is left - a friend going thru menopause was told to that by her
gyn since she was having probs due to her uterus dropping).
I guess I'll really have to wait & see what the stomach gi says. I"m only 34
and I'm just really scared that my neuropathies are increasing - affecting more
body parts & more organs, and wondering how bad it's going to get as each year
goes by.
I hope this doesn't happen to anyone else. It's just one more bad thing to deal
with.
There isn't really a solution to the stomach prob - it's something to learn to
cope with - and the type of neuropathy that affects the stomach (gastroparesis)
is autonomic neuropathy.
Cathie in PA

ReeAnn,
I think this is an awesome idea. I will get with Amanda and get a list of
her favorite kid friendly internet sites.
I wish I could volunteer to help, but I just cannot. I have a full plate
right now and could not take any thing else on. But, we can support you
with our prayers and send along suggestions or feedback.
Hope your day is painfree.
Rhonda Chitwood
Tulsa, OK

Hi Cathie
I also have perpherial polyneuropathy. I have had bladder empting problems for a
long time. I use to go just before going to bed and just after I got in bed I
felt as though I had to go again. I learned a trick about empting your bladder
as much as possible. Before you finish lean forward as though you are going to
get off the toliet. This action presses your bladder again the wall. It really
works. I have had no problem within the last 2 months. It's amazing the little
tricks we learn.
I am having Sod attacks also. I find that mine are worse at night. I have had
only one severe one in the last 6 months. I didn't go to emergency...I rode it
out at home. But each morning when I get up my right side......the area around
my mid-section, my right arm and right hand feel heavy . My right hand doesn't
work as well as my left. I believe it is the neuropathy in my common duct area
that is affecting my right arm and right hand. I don't know if anything can be
done about it. I don't want an ERCP. I have had enough done to me. So I just
live with it.
I hope you find the solution to your stomach problems. Yes, neuropathy can set
in there too.
You're not alone with this........Warm thoughts.......Pam ga
Cathie Shultz <cathieshultz@...
Hi All,
I have gastroparesis (vagal nerve damage to stomach) as a result of getting
my gall bladder out. I also have sphincter of oddi dysfunction - my last
ERCP w/sphincterotomy (both biliary & pancreatic sphincters were cut) and
placement of a pancreatic stent left me with pancreatitis.
I've been having problems keeping food & water down, let alone pain pills
or antinasea pills. My stomach gi thinks it's either the gp getting worse
or maybe it's chronic pancreatitis (my pancreatic & liver enzymes are all
normal) - so I'm scheduled for a gastric emptying scan on the 8th to see
if it's the stomach that's been acting up.
GP is one form of neuropathy (it's autonomic), and I have peripheral neuropathy
in my right leg (which started about a year or two after the gp).
Since the pancreatitis, I've had trouble urinating - meaning I can't go all
the way - it's like I can't empty my bladder completely, so I go all the time -
at least 3 times a nite I wake up to go.
I wound up at the ER on Fri - w/severe upper abdominal pain - they said it's
not pancreatitis since my levels were normal (yet I know they don't have
to be "off" to have pancreatitis - and my stomach gi dr agrees). They said it
was the SOD, gave me IV painkillers and sent me home. I told them about
the urination problem, and they said I should mention it to my stomach gi.
I searched on the internet to see if underactive bladder can be related to
neuropathy - and it appears it can. I'm worried that the neuropathies I already
have are just going to get worse and that I'm going to wind up with more of them
affecting more organs/body parts. What can I do to help prevent this from
happening?
Does anyone else have this bladder symptom? What do you do about it?
I'm drinking lots of water and lots of blueberry - juice, tea - to make
sure I'm flushing the urinary system as best I can, and I'm taking
Uva Ursi hoping that'll help too.
Any advice/input would be greatly apprectiated.
Cathie in PA

www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Well I am back from all my vacation time lol.
The coast was great,, had 2 days of rain but it was pretty at the cabin, plan on
getting my camera turned in to show pics and explain each one.
Johns family reuniun was awesome and small.
Have A Great Day,
jlm_1972
Wavy Baby
No matter what you go through,
God is there with you, even though you
can't see Him, He is there.

Michelle,
Thanks for the welcome. I am eating a 30mg of fat a day diet, no
greasy or fried foods, and plenty of anti-oxidents among low or no-
fat everything as suggested by some nutritional facts that were
suggested and some information here.
Loretta Greer/TN

Hello Everyone,
The TPP Chatroom is now Open!!! Come on in---get a comfy chair, take
your shoes off or not :) You will need AIM or AOL to get in. AIM is a
free download www.aim.com
Look forward to seeing you there
Denise

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn & Gary
Sunday August 29, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ Owner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...

H Lorreta
Just read the post from Pam. I to am on disability due to cp and yes it
has changed my life. But thru the TPP i`ve found new friends that understand me.
You can do what ever your body lets you do. Your lucky to have support, some
thing alot of us don`t have.Sounds like you have a lot going for you,hang in
there and do your best.
Your Friend
Dave

Hi All,
I have gastroparesis (vagal nerve damage to stomach) as a result of getting
my gall bladder out. I also have sphincter of oddi dysfunction - my last
ERCP w/sphincterotomy (both biliary & pancreatic sphincters were cut) and
placement of a pancreatic stent left me with pancreatitis.
I've been having problems keeping food & water down, let alone pain pills
or antinasea pills. My stomach gi thinks it's either the gp getting worse
or maybe it's chronic pancreatitis (my pancreatic & liver enzymes are all
normal) - so I'm scheduled for a gastric emptying scan on the 8th to see
if it's the stomach that's been acting up.
GP is one form of neuropathy (it's autonomic), and I have peripheral neuropathy
in my right leg (which started about a year or two after the gp).
Since the pancreatitis, I've had trouble urinating - meaning I can't go all
the way - it's like I can't empty my bladder completely, so I go all the time -
at least 3 times a nite I wake up to go.
I wound up at the ER on Fri - w/severe upper abdominal pain - they said it's
not pancreatitis since my levels were normal (yet I know they don't have
to be "off" to have pancreatitis - and my stomach gi dr agrees). They said it
was the SOD, gave me IV painkillers and sent me home. I told them about
the urination problem, and they said I should mention it to my stomach gi.
I searched on the internet to see if underactive bladder can be related to
neuropathy - and it appears it can. I'm worried that the neuropathies I already
have are just going to get worse and that I'm going to wind up with more of them
affecting more organs/body parts. What can I do to help prevent this from
happening?
Does anyone else have this bladder symptom? What do you do about it?
I'm drinking lots of water and lots of blueberry - juice, tea - to make
sure I'm flushing the urinary system as best I can, and I'm taking
Uva Ursi hoping that'll help too.
Any advice/input would be greatly apprectiated.
Cathie in PA

Hello Everyone,
Many of us have young children who either have Pancreatitis or
children who would like to learn more about their parent's disease.
While we have found support and information on the internet to help
us, as adults, information for children is virtually nonexistance.
This is about to change. TPP has a new venue created specificly for

HI All,
I seem to be doing it again and staying offline. First, I was having
some bad pain days, which I spent mostly sleeping and the days I felt
good, I've been working on a baby crib cover for a friend of mine who's
pregnant and the baby is due sometime in October. So, I've been spending
most of my time working on that so I can have it done before the baby is
born. Don't want the baby to be too big for the blanket when I finish
it. :D .
Anyways, my mail has piled up, so I will probably delete a lot of it as
it's just too much for me to catch up on. If there is something you
wanted to talk to me about and I don't email you back within the next
three days, resend it.
Hope you are all doing well.
Kimber
--
Kimber Allen
Vallejo, CA
hominid2@...
Note: All advice given is personal opinion, not equal to that of a licensed
physician or health care professional.

Loretta
Never give up on your dreams! Live one day at a time. I think it's wonderful
that you are are going after a degree in law. There are so many options with
that field. You could even work from home. Don't let this disease rule your
life. Yes, you will have bad days but there are good ones out there too. I'm 56
and although I'm on disability now, it doesn't stop me from doing what I love to
do. I was a dog groomer and although I can't do 10 dogs a day anymore, I still
groom my own and my friends. I also love crafts and I make purses which I sell
at fairs. I still play my violin from time to time and just love antique stores
and flea markets. My husband still works and we both love to travel. When he
retires, we plan on getting a camper trailer, load the dogs and parrots up and
take off to the unknown!
So you see, even with my multiple problems, MS, pancreatitis, cryoglobulinemia
and fibromyalgia I don't stop...........I do what I want when I can.
Many Blessings and Warm thoughts.............Pam ga
lorettagreer2002 <loretta0416@...
There is something I was thinking about. Does everyone here lead a
pretty normal life? Does everyone have careers or jobs or has made
you disabled to work? The reason I am asking is more or less for
input. I am a student pursuing a paralegal degree and I am
wondering if it something I need to reconsider or is it thing I caan
still continue to do. Right now I am living on disability and Papaw
helps me sinancially. I do not want to be this way and this degree
is something I really want to do. But I am also on a Stafford Loan,
so I do not want to run into a financial loss because of this down
the road. Thanks for any input in advance.
Loretta
Tennessee
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

There is something I was thinking about. Does everyone here lead a
pretty normal life? Does everyone have careers or jobs or has made
you disabled to work? The reason I am asking is more or less for
input. I am a student pursuing a paralegal degree and I am
wondering if it something I need to reconsider or is it thing I caan
still continue to do. Right now I am living on disability and Papaw
helps me sinancially. I do not want to be this way and this degree
is something I really want to do. But I am also on a Stafford Loan,
so I do not want to run into a financial loss because of this down
the road. Thanks for any input in advance.
Loretta
Tennessee

Loretta:
I wish that there was a great way to reply, but pancreatitis presents
in different ways from person to person and from attack to attack.
Because of that, there's no one answer to your question.
-Ellen Grove
NY

Laura
I am so happy you are home and the ERCP went well. You knew it was SOD and I
believe that is my problem too. I just haven't built up the nerve yet to really
see about it. I've gone through so much already. Were you're liver enzymes
elevated? I am so careful about what I eat and if I slip up, I know it in about
30 minutes. It's a hard way to live......watching everything you eat. I
usually go to Ryan's if I go to a restrauant at all...because there I can be
really picky. But I sit there and watch everyone eat all that fat and all those
desserts! I guess it's a good thing I never was a big eatter and food was never
that important to me but it's different now when you know you can't have it!
Warm thoughts and post please when you are feeling well. I would like to know
everything that happened.........
Pam ga
she_remembers <she_remembers@...
Hi all....thanks for all of your kind thoughts and words before I
took off for Indiana. Well, Dr. Lehman performed the ERCP with
manometry and as it turned out I do have SOD (which I suspected all
along)...he performed a sphincterotomy and put in a temporary stent
that I guess passes on it's own w/in a couple of weeks (if any of
you can tell me more about that I'd appreciate it!) I'm not doing
too well, the flights home yesterday were awful...but took my Mom's
advice and had wheelchairs meet me at each gate for the walks across
the airport to my next gate (just one connecting flight each way.)
I'm hurting pretty badly today but wanted to add that he has a
couple of colleagues (who apparently learned how to do the ERCPs
with manometry from him - he's the man for those I guess!) so I have
an appointment in Providence (about 20 mins from me) on the 14th of
September. We'll see how it goes..I'm anxious to be under the care
of a local GI who actually KNOWS something and will go from there.
Anyway..I participated in a research program that he and his
colleagues at Indiana University Med Ctr are conducting...in fact I
am the FIRST participant!! It is to study the effect of taking a
Cox-2 inhibitor drug (which in my case happened to be Vioxx - and
yes, I read the studies regarding heart related problems the VERY
next day in the papers) 15 hrs prior and then again 3 hrs prior to
having an ERCP in an effort to see if it prevents people from
getting an acute panc attack post-ERCP. It is a double blind study
(meaning even the docs don't know if you're getting Vioxx or a
placebo) and will include about 500 participants over a period of a
year.
Thanks for all of your kind words and prayers....hope you're all
well. I'm going to try and read/catch up on the posts but wanted to
let you all know I am back.
love to you all
Laura
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Welcome to our Family at TPP (The Pancreatitis Place). I would like
to take a moment of your time to introduce myself. My name is Denise
Hammett and I live in South Carolina. TPP was created for those
suffering from Acute or Chronic Pancreatitis (or related conditions)
and their caregivers .If you have questions about this illness,
please feel free to jump right in and ask. Someone will answer you.
If you just need a shoulder to cry on. We are here for you. When
you're having a bad day and feel the need to vent about what is
happening in your life, let us know what going on. We are here to
share the good days as well as the bad days. We have members here
that have suffered for 15 or more years. This group is here to share
and learn all we can to deal with this illness on a day by day basis.
Feel free to check out the links section. We are always adding new
links to it. You can also check out our photo section and see who you
are posting to and maybe put a photo up of you. We also have Chat 2
times a week. One on Friday night and Sunday night at 7:00 Eastern
Standard Time. You can access the chat room with either AIM or AOL.
If you need help accessing the chat room, please feel free to contact
one of the mangament team.
Once again I want to give you the warmest welcome to our family here
at TPP You are not alone with this illness any more.You have joined a
family of caring people that are here to help in any way they can.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you . Have a Blessed Day
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Hi Dave,
Nice to meet you. I am glad I found TPP, for it has been an inspiration to me.
I am also sorry to hear of your difficulties, but you sound to be determined and
that is the way I am trying to be.
Loretta
TN
Have a good day and God Bless!
Mt 17:20 -
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you,
If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain,
Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
impossible unto you

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn
Sunday August 29, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 23 hours, 3 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ Owner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...

Hi all....thanks for all of your kind thoughts and words before I
took off for Indiana. Well, Dr. Lehman performed the ERCP with
manometry and as it turned out I do have SOD (which I suspected all
along)...he performed a sphincterotomy and put in a temporary stent
that I guess passes on it's own w/in a couple of weeks (if any of
you can tell me more about that I'd appreciate it!) I'm not doing
too well, the flights home yesterday were awful...but took my Mom's
advice and had wheelchairs meet me at each gate for the walks across
the airport to my next gate (just one connecting flight each way.)
I'm hurting pretty badly today but wanted to add that he has a
couple of colleagues (who apparently learned how to do the ERCPs
with manometry from him - he's the man for those I guess!) so I have
an appointment in Providence (about 20 mins from me) on the 14th of
September. We'll see how it goes..I'm anxious to be under the care
of a local GI who actually KNOWS something and will go from there.
Anyway..I participated in a research program that he and his
colleagues at Indiana University Med Ctr are conducting...in fact I
am the FIRST participant!! It is to study the effect of taking a
Cox-2 inhibitor drug (which in my case happened to be Vioxx - and
yes, I read the studies regarding heart related problems the VERY
next day in the papers) 15 hrs prior and then again 3 hrs prior to
having an ERCP in an effort to see if it prevents people from
getting an acute panc attack post-ERCP. It is a double blind study
(meaning even the docs don't know if you're getting Vioxx or a
placebo) and will include about 500 participants over a period of a
year.
Thanks for all of your kind words and prayers....hope you're all
well. I'm going to try and read/catch up on the posts but wanted to
let you all know I am back.
love to you all
Laura

Hi Loretta
Welcome to TPP,my name is Dave and i live in Mass. i`m 58 yrs young and
i`ve had cp for 12 yrs. Had two operations for the removal of pseudocycts, one
came back after my last operation ( a yr ago last Jan. ) and they tell me they
won`t operate on me anymore. You`ll find alot of friends and support here at
TPP. Any questions just ask and someone will answer them.
One Day At A Time
Dave

Denise,
Thank you for sending Michelle birthday wishes. She was 11 on the
24th of August. Mom is not ready for her birthdays to go any faster
then she, like Amanda, are doing. If they only knew how much we love
these years, they would slow down! It is bad enough that my oldest
will be 18 in October, but I have my other daughter joining the ranks
of the "teen years" this November. As for the record, I have not
aged one bit!!! (Yeah, right!!!!!!!)
Blessings,
Christine
Denton, TX.

Hi Brenda
I thought i would see how you are doing have not heard from you in
awile.
Your TPP Friend
Bruce
Long Island NY

Add Fruits and Vegetables to Your Grilled Cuisine
August 26, 2004
Tired of the same old barbeque foods? Spice up your fare with grilled
fruits
and vegetables.
Add flavor to your meal by cooking vegetables right on the grill.
Baste firm
vegetables like peppers, corn, eggplant or onions. Season them with
herbs and
place on a hot grill until they are tender and brown, usually about
10 to 15
minutes.
Or try sliced zucchini, tomatoes and carrots. Place them on heavy-
duty foil
and sprinkle with a little water and seasoning. Wrap the foil and
grill six to
eight minutes or until vegetables are tender.
To add more flavor, choose your favorite fruits and create fruit
kabobs.
Grill fruit kabobs on low heat until the fruit is hot and slightly
golden.
With the abundance of produce available this time of year, it's easy
to
consume the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Produced by ADA

Hello Michael,
So glad that you are home. I have been wondering how you are doing.
Thanks for keeping us posted. Tell Lori I said hello. We are keeping
you in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Dear Michelle,
I hope you are having a grand birthday. 12 years old huh ? Next year
you will be a teenager :) I hope everything is going good for you.
Its so neat to have 2 girls in our group that has birthdays near the
same time. Blow out all the candles and make a great wish.
Love,
Denise

Dear Amanda,
Happy 12th birthday!!! I hope you are having a GREAT birthday. Tell
your Mom to give you lots of hugs and kisses and somewhere in the
middle ---there is one from me :) Tell Alex not to eat all the cake
up!!!
Love,
Denise

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat ~ Robert & Denise
Friday August 27, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 21 hours, 3 minutes.
Event Location: AOL TPP Chatroom
Street: AOL chatroom called "TPP Chat"
Phone: 434-409-7162
Notes:

Hello to all
I just want to let you all know that I am finally home now! I sent an e-mail
earlier but it did not get posted for some reason so I am giving it another
shot.
I want to thank you all for the support that you all have given me and Lori
my wife. Lori printed out the e-mails that you all sent and read them to me
while I was in the Hospital and they sure made me feel loved and supported.
My right foot is starting to heal and I should be up and walking in about
two weeks or so. I lost all my toes but I still have half of my foot and for
that I am so grateful to the Lord. It will be a little work learning to stand
and walk with all toes gone on both feet.I had the same thing happen on my left
foot about a year and half ago.
My pancreas has not been bothering me too much and for that I am so
grateful. My foot pain is enough I sure do not need to deal with pancreas pain
too.
Again thank you for all of the love and support and may God bless you all
with freedom from pain and may God give you all the peace that passes all
understanding.
In His Name
Michael H Karns
Joshua 1v8-9
Joshua1v8@...
Joshua1v8@...

THE MAGICAL DIET TREE (Copyrighted by Diet Bites)
At this point in your life, you are led to a beautiful healthy tree.
You are told that as long as this tree lives, so shall you.
However, the moment the tree dies, so shall you.
You can do anything to keep the tree alive -make use of water, additional soil,
and nutrients - anything in your power to make the tree continue to live.
From this day forward, you visit the tree to make sure that it has plenty of
water.
You search intently for signs of disease.
A tree surgeon is called in from time-to-time to ensure your tree's health.
If you see that there are other obstacles growing around your tree that are
shielding valuable light, you remove the obstacles so your tree can continue to
thrive.
You make sure that harmful insects and bugs are not allowed to attack and
destroy your tree.
One day you notice that the tree is losing leaves and its base is very soggy.
Aha! Too much water! Immediately, you make the necessary adjustments and again
your tree thrives.
Wow! This is too easy! You may be like Big Daddy in The Long Hot Summer - you
just may live forever!
There is a picture developing here, surfacing slowly, merging to the top for us
to see.
It's a mirror image of us.
You are the tree.
Yet, when you think of this story in this manner, it takes on a new light.
Why?
When you can physically see something, then you know why, when, and how to make
adjustments.
If we could actually see into our bodies and examine the physical damage that
excess weight and unhealthy foods are doing to us, the world would hear a giant
wake up call.
But we can't see inside of us; we can't see the damage - clogged veins, pounding
arteries, the deteriorating
muscular system, so we live for today and enjoy!
Yet, if someone were to tell us that we would live as long as a tree in our
care, oh my we would be so careful to nurture and care for this magical tree!
Begin taking care of yourself TODAY!
You won't get fit overnight, but day-by-day your results will add up and begin
to show.
Your hard work will make a difference in how you look and feel.
Be a strong oak!
Let's review one more time:
* Eat healthy; too much of a good thing is absolutely too much.
* Drink healthy; water will help flush the impurities from your system, leaving
you with a revitalized feeling.
Drinking sugary drinks or diet drinks increases your 'need' for additional
sugar.
Take your vitamins; they help balance your system and keep you healthy,
especially when dieting because it's very difficult to take in all of your
necessary nutrients.
*Exercise moderately; get outdoors and feel the sun on your face!
The added benefit is Vitamin D from the sun.
Don't forget your sunscreen, though.
*Eliminate obstacles that stand in the way of succeeding in your diet.
If your weakness is sweets, then use your head and steer clear of a potential
disaster.
If you have a friend that insists you eat hot buttered popcorn at the movies,
you may have to shake up the dice a bit.
Try inviting the friend to your house to watch a movie rental; fix some 'low fat
smart popcorn'.
*The Big Blame.
If you fail, it's not anyone's fault but your own, but NEVER EVER give up!
Recognize that you are human, then get back on the horse and this time, break
him!
It may take a few months in the saddle, but you can do it!
*Decide what you will say about your diet, and whom you will say it to.
This is a very tricky area.
Some 'friends' can actually get jealous if you begin dropping weight (or finally
gaining weight).
On the other hand, if you talk about dieting continuously to the people around
you, they could go postal.
*Make this your FINAL diet!
Most of you probably know someone who's been on a diet for years and weigh the
same weight as they did when they initially began their diet, or more, or less.
Remember, you are the tree.
Treat your body as if your very life depends upon it -
because it does

Hi
When is Amanda`s Birthday?
Dave

Christine and Michelle,
Happy Birthday back to you, Michelle! Hope this year is filled with
lots of happiness. I've been trying to talk Amanda into not having
any more birthdays, but she isn't cooperating!!
Amanda has been feeling very good last few weeks (PTL!). How are
things with Michelle? I've been taking Amanda to a chiropractor this
week just to see if adjustments will give her any type of relief.
Really have no way to knowing its helping since she is not in pain
when she is not in an attack. I've always been skeptical of this
type of thing, but at this point I thought maybe I should open my
mind a little. We'll see.
Have a nice weekend!
Rhonda and Amanda
Tulsa, OK

Rhonda,
Isn't Amanda's 12th birthday this week? Please wish her a happy
birthday from Michelle and me.
Blessings,
Christine
Denton, TX.

Hey Bruce & Carol
CONGRATES! My youngest boy just got engaged, they will get married
next July, hope i stay around long enough to have more grandchildern, i only
have one now.
One Day At A Time
Dave

Hi -
I was talking to someone on another list about finding out more
about Motilium for gastroparesis, and have come to the conclusion
that anything I take for gp, sod or ibs w/d - will negatively affect
one or more of the others.
It seems like there's no med out there for gp AND SOD &/or IBS w/D.
All the meds either speed up the stomach & the spasms elsewhere, or
slow down the spasms in the SO & colon, and make the gp worse. I
wish they'd do some research on something that regulates (not
slows/speeds up) the motility of the entire digestive tract, to just
normalize things. All I can do now is control one pain while making
another worse - or pick whether I want to throw up or have diarrhea.
I have had some pretty bad days (vomiting/pain) over the past 10
days - and now my motility dr thinks it may be that I never got over
the pancreatitis (or it's back) that I got from my last ERCP. I'd
rather know it's just the gp, instead of possibly having chronic
pancreas problems in addition to the pancreas probs from the SOD.
I'm sched to have a repeat GES on the 8th (we're shorthanded at
work, so I put it off till then when we have more coverage). Of
course, that could show that my stomach empties fine because I'm
having a good day, so then I'd just need to do have the GES done
again. The motility gi thinks it possible it might be the gp and
pancreatitis. How am I supposed to tell the difference? The
symptoms are almost the same.
I feel like I'll never be well - it sucks that I'll never know what
I can eat, when I can eat it, and how much I can eat - it seems like
I just can't ever guess right -some part of my digestive system is
never happy. I really feel that had I not gotten my gb out, I
wouldn't be in this mess. I'd just have IBS w/D and I know how to
treat/live w/that - I've had it half my life now (I'm 34).
All I can do now is keep with the alternative methods - herbs,
homeopathy, etc. At least I won't have to deal with the side
effects of drugs like Reglan, Motilium, Zelnorm, etc.
One thing I wonder about tho - is can they do permanent nerve blocks
for the digestive system like they do with RSD, or is the nerves
that feel the digestive pain too important in the digestive process?
Cathie in PA

Hi Pam
The liver does it's most amount of work at nite, that's why most
people with gallstones notice the most pain in the middle of the
nite and wind up at the ER in the wee hrs of the morning. It very
well could be the SOD acting up on the biliary side. Does your
gastro believe SOD exists? If not, find another gi - one that's
specializes in liver issues INCLUDING SOD - because he/she will able
to diagnose or rule out SOD - and don't forget - there's two
spincters in the SO region - pancreatic & biliary - so either one
could be acting up (or both) causing pain. Or it could be a bout of
pancreatitis - but a gi who really knows SOD can diagnose you either
way.
I have had 5 ERCP's now - and the truth is, I'm worse now. When
they measure the pressure in the sphincter (mannometry) that can
cause pancreatitis - if they just go in and cut, without measuring,
the risk is smaller. And if they cut the sphinter (either one) to
make the opening bigger, you can form scar tissue there which, in
the end, makes the opening smaller so the SOD can be worse.
Good luck to you, and make sure you tell us how this all turns out.
Cathie in PA

the headaches or the numbness. Mornings are pretty good, afternoon
okay most of the time, it's the evenings that it really acts up.
I'm so tired of seeing doctors. I have a MD, a hematologist and a
gastro. But my health problems lately has centered around a blood
disorder and a liver problem not the pancreatis. Maybe it's just
me , but I would like to have some information before I see my MD
about this SOD thing.
Warm thoughts.........Pam ga

Hello {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Everyone}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Please note that hosted chat will now be held on Fridays and
Sundays. The Friday evening (7pm eastern time) chat is hosted by
Robert & Denise. I will continue to host the Sunday evening with no
changes. Also please remember we are always willing to open up the
chatroom any time we are online and someone requests it.
You can access the chatroom using AOL or AIM - their free instant
messaging program (www.aim.com). Once you have either up and
running, send a message to "ReeAnn" and I will send you a link to
the chatroom. If you need assistance installing AOL or AIM, you can

This sounds so good ;
cube steak.
Diabetic BRAISED KALE
Yield: 6 Servings
- 2 pounds fresh kale, washed well
- 1 teaspoon virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon imitation bacon bits
Finely chop kale. In a large non-stick skillet, heat oil and
saute onion and garlic until softened. Add kale and remaining
ingredients except lemon juice and bacon bits. Cook over medium
heat 15 to 20 minutes or until tender, then stir in lemon juice
and garnish with bacon bits.
Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/6 of recipe):
Calories: 42, Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg,
Carbohydrate: 8 g, Protein: 2 g, Sodium: 22 mg
Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Vegetable

Please please see your dr about this, sounds like it might be coming back, i get
some of those problems when my pancreatitis acts up, i get headaches and pain in
my stomach and my back and get sick.
So please talk to your dr.
Jennifer from Medford Oregon
dixiewings2 <dixiewings2@...
Hi
I believe I'm having problem with SOD. About thirty minutes after I
eat, and it's usually dinner, I start to have spasms in the common
duct area. And then the pain sets in similiar to a gallbladder
attack. I would so appreciate any input any one has to offer.
Warm thoughts......Pam ga
www.thepancreatitisplace.org

Hi Laura
My Pastor told me when you really want to pray for someone you put a piece
of tape on your watch and write there name on it, every time you look at your
watch you pray for that person. I look at my watch at least 500 times a day, so
that tells you alot.
Regards, Dave

Hi
I believe I'm having problem with SOD. About thirty minutes after I
eat, and it's usually dinner, I start to have spasms in the common
duct area. And then the pain sets in similiar to a gallbladder
attack. I suffer with it all night. I also get headaches on the right
side and I have problems with my right arm.....my small finger and
ring finger on that side go numb and I lose my ability to grasp well.
I usually wake up during the night with sweats when this happens.
Am I going crazy? This has got to be all connected somehow.....the
spasms......the headache....my arm. Is it because I consume too much
during dinner ( I try not to) or what? Does anyone get these
symptoms too?...And I guess the only option is a ERCP. And that
scares me. I don't want to have another pancreatitis attack or end up
in worse shape then I am now. Gallbladder is out.
I would so appreciate any input any one has to offer.
Warm thoughts......Pam ga

I feel for you all, i am on iron too but taking 275mg two times daily, and to
let ya know, i have aim and my aol instant messenger name is mrs jennifer lee
robinmk02@... wrote:Ellen,
My name is Robin. I do not post much, but your entry struck me as I have
dealt with the same thing.

Chili Beef & Red Pepper Fajitas with Chipotle Salsa
Serves 2 (1 fajita with 1/4 cup salsa, 2 tbsps fat-free sour cream per
serving)
6 ozs boneless beef top sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1/2 lime
1-1/2 tsps chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 cup diced plum tomatoes
1/4 cup mild picante sauce
1/2 canned chipotle chili pepper in adobo sauce
Nonstick cooking spray
1/2 cup sliced onion
1/2 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
2 (10 inch) fat-free flour tortillas, warmed
1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
2 tbsps chopped fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Place steak on plate. Squeeze lime juice over steak, sprinkle with
chili
powder and cumin. Toss to coat well; let stand 10 minutes.
For salsa, combine tomatoes and picante sauce
in-small bowl. Place chipotle on small plate. Using fork, mash
completely.
Stir chipotle into tomato mixture.
Coat 12-inch skillet with cooking spray. Heat over high heat until
hot.
Add onion and bell pepper; cook and stir 3 minutes or until beginning
to
brown on edges.
Remove from skillet. Lightly spray skillet.with cooking spray.
Add beef; cook and stir 1 minute. Return onion and bell pepper to
skillet;
cook 1 minute longer.
Place 1/2 the beef mixture in center of each tortilla; fold up sides.
Top
each fajita with 1/4 cup salsa, 2 tablespoons sour cream and
cilantro, if
desired.
Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch; 2 lean meat; 1 vegetable
Calories 245;Fat 4g;Carbs 31g;Protein 21g;Chol 45mg;Sodium
530mg;Fiber 9g
Diabetic Cooking March/April 2004

Creamy Ham and Vegetable Chowder
Serves 5
4 oz extra lean, reduced-sodium ham, thinly sliced and chopped
1 cup water, divided
3/4 cup chopped yellow onions
1 (12 oz) can evaporated fat-free milk
1 (10 oz) pkg frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
1 cup potatoes, diced
4 slice reduced-fat American cheese, about 3 oz
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
Heat a 2-quart nonstick saucepan over medium-high heat. Add ham and
cook 4
minutes or until edges are beginning tolightly brown, stirring
frequently.
Remove ham from pan and set aside on separate plate.
To pan residue, add 1/4 cup water and onion and cook 4 minutes or
until
onions are translucent. Increase to high heat, add remaining 3/4 cup
water
and
milk and bring just to a boil, stirring frequently. Add mixed
vegetables and
potatoes and return to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat, cover
tightly,
and simmer 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Using a whisk, stir mixture to break up potatoes and thicken the
chowder.
Remove from heat and stir in ham and cheese. Cover and let stand 5
minutes
to
develop flavors. Stir in sour cream and salt. Sprinkle with black
pepper and
serve.
Exchanges: Carbohydrate 2;Lean Meat 1
Calories 203;Fat 3g;Chol 19mg;Sodium 758mg;Carbs 29g;Fiber 3g;Protein
15g

Chicken and Vegetables with Onion Sauce
Serves 5
5 (4 oz) slice boneless skinless chicken breast halves, rinsed and
patted dry
1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables (stew)
1 (10-3/4 oz) can condensed french onion soup
Heat Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Coat with cooking spray, add
chicken,
and top with vegetables and soup. Bring to a boil, cover tightly,
reduce
heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until carrots are tender.
Remove chicken and vegetables with a slotted spoon and place in
serving
bowl.
Increase to high heat, bring pan drippings to a boil and continue
boiling
one minute or until the liquid measures 1/2 cup. Spoon sauce over
chicken
and
serve.
Exchanges: Starch 1;Very Lean Meat 3
Calories 194;Fat 2g;Chol 65mg;Sodium 570mg;Carbs 12g;Fiber 2g;Protein
28g

Mixed Berry Jam
Makes: 3 pints
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 to 50 minutes
6 cups fresh raspberries
1/3 cup sugar
3 cups fresh strawberries
1 1/2 cups SPLENDAR No Calorie Sweetener, Granular
1 cup cold water
1 package no sugar needed pectin
1 pint blueberries
COMBINE raspberries and sugar in a heavy bottomed pan. Heat over
medium-high
heat. Boil 10 - 15 minutes, stirring constantly.
MASH strawberries with a fork or potato masher.
ADD SPLENDAR Granular and strawberries to raspberries. Stir
constantly and
boil over medium-high heat for an additional 10-15 minutes.
POUR cold water into a small saucepan. Whisk pectin into water, and
let
stand 2-3 minutes. Allow the pectin to absorb the water.
BOIL water and pectin, then stir into fruit mixture and reduce heat to
medium-low. Add blueberries. Simmer and stir for 5-6 minutes, until
pectin
is thoroughly blended with the fruit.
FREEZE in sterile canning jars.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Serving Size 1 tablespoon
Total Calories 15
Calories from Fat 0
Total Fat 0g
Saturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 5mg
Total Carbohydrate 3g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 2g
Protein 0g
Exchanges per serving: Free
This recipe, when compared to a traditional recipe, has a 44%
reduction in
calories, a 46% reduction in carbohydrates and a 60% reduction in
sugars!

Hi Dave,
What a wonderful idea. I just love it!!!! My watch is kinda small, so
I will just have to write small to get all the names on the peice of
tape. Hope everything is goind well with you my friend. As always ,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Hello Rudy,
I am so sorry to hear about your friend. She sounds like a 'Great
Friend'. Everybody needs good friends in life!!!!I am so glad that
you got to be with her. I do understand what that feels like. I was
with my best friend until the minute he passed. I would not have had
it any other way. And I do agree with you, She WILL always be with
you. I hope you are having a pain free weekend. I will say an extra
prayer for you Rudy on the 27th. Everything will turn out alright.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you every day.
God Bless
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Hey Rhonda,
I have tried herbal remedies for my blood pressure. As a matter of
fact, I am on some now. Valerine Root. I could not get my BP down and
was about willing to try anything, I went to the doctor this past
wednesday and I showed him the bottle and told him that I was taking
it and he said that it was alright for me to take it.He also gave me
some new BP medicine. So...that is my thought on herbal remedies :-)
I hope Amanda is doing well. Has she already started school yet?
Sherry started last week. She is in the 9th grade this year. Boy,
they grow up fast ;-} Please tell Amanda we said hello and she is in
our thougths and Prayers daily.
God Bless
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Hi Christine,
I have tried the fat free cheese and I have not found one that I
like. I prefer the reduced fat swiss cheese from Alpine Lace. I get
it at Bi-lo Stores and Public Supermarket.I just cut down the portion
and have that when I want 'real cheese' taste :-)
I hope Michelle is having a good weekend. Please remember you and
your family are always in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless
~*~Denise~*~
Caregivers Moderator
deniseatdiabetes@...
sdhammett@...
http://www.thepancreatitisplace.org/

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of ThePancreatitisPlace
Hosted Chat - ReeAnn
Sunday August 22, 2004
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every week.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 23 hours, 3 minutes.
Event Location: AOL's TPP Chat room
Notes:
ReeAnn ~ Owner will host a chat in AOLs TPP Chat room. You will need AOL or free AIM (www.aim.com) to access this Chat room. Please email us for the link.
DeniseHallock@...
MsReeAnnBetts@...

Ellen,
thanks for the info. No, I've never had a bone marrow biopsy. I see my
internal med doc around the first of Sep and I'm sure he'll check my ferritin
level again. It seemed that the medicine was helping with the fatigue as I had
a day last week that I was actually able to do a few things in the house.
However, I am back to being just as tired as I was, so I don't think the med is
helping like I thought. Also, because of the cp, liver disease, daily
narcotics, and everything else, constipation is often a MAJOR problem for me.
As you can imagine mega doses of iron do NOT help in that area!
I'm going to print out your post and talk to my internal med doc about it. My
husband fusses at me constantly about my diet and blames the anemia on the fact
that I often go days without eating anything that has much protein or iron in
it. I've tried to explain to him how difficult it is to eat things that I know
will probably cause me pain and nausea. I also think the anemia is more just
because of my health issues than because of my diet.
take care,
Karen W
alabama

Dave,
what a wonderful suggestion! I, too, am a watch person. I pray for a lot of
people but never would have thought to do something so simple as to put their
name on my watch. As we all know, a prayer can take a matter of just seconds.
How awesome to pray for someone who has a special need many times a day!
I have a group of 'prayer friends', some I've never met that we e-mail when
there is a need for prayer - as if there's never a time that we don't need
prayer! Anyway, if you don't mind, I'm going to share your 'watch' story with
my prayer friends!
thanks for sharing,
Karen W
alabama

Hi girls
Thanks for asking. I did this for ReeAnn when she went to Arizona to find her
daughter, which we all know she did. My Pastor told me wh