Good news about my health

Sunday, June 14, 2009

It's been about 6 months since I was diagnosed with Lupus Nephritis and a lot has happened. The latest good news is that when I went to see my rheumatologist a few weeks ago, she told me that my urine results are back to normal!! I was surprised, shocked, and so happy to hear the news.

She thinks it might have been the shingles that might have "reset" my immune system. In March, I had shingles. It was awful. Today, months later, I still have shots of pain run through me. I got them in the most awful place too; right between my butt cheeks. Did I say it was awful? But I guess it was a good thing because it gave my immune system something to fight.

My doctor also said that I probably got shingles due to the immuno-suppressants that I'm on. I figured. I've been sick a lot lately but still feel great regardless. I'm sure I'll be stronger once I'm off these drugs. She now has me on a reduction plan for the Prednisone. Yay!

It's funny because I have been feeling great lately. Everyone around me has been telling me that I look really good. I've lost a lot of weight and feel great. I'm actually back to my normal weight. I'm not sure if it was weight that I lost but I definitely feel less swollen.

I honestly think it has been the culmination of everything that I've done that has given me these positive results. I gave up drinking alcohol, became vegetarian, and made sure I took it easy when my body told me to. I also think it has a lot to do with how happy I am with my job.

I miraculously found a new job in March with a successful Japanese automaker. Since then, my spirits have been up because I enjoy what I do and am no longer stuck behind a desk, staring at a computer screen all day. I feel more productive and useful. I am getting the people-interaction that I thrive on. Overall, my new job has greatly impacted my mental well-being and I'm seeing the results in my health.

I am so, so grateful. I am continuing with all the lifestyle changes I've made. I'm a lot happier and healthier. I am also so grateful and thankful for the people around me who have been there to support me in so many different ways. I am most grateful for CM, who has been integral to my healing.