How I See It

Health Score/December 30, 2008

1. Test Results – very good today – the biggest improvement thus far. My BUN (what shape your kidneys are in) was running between 95-120 and as of today is down to 61. The normal range is 10-25 just to give you some relativity. HAPPY NEWS for the HAPPY NEW YEAR!
2. AND my new doctor halved my prednisone (steroid) dosage on 12/23. So now I’m only half as crazy! I’m not “constantly” chatting and almost getting a full nights rest. I can taste food again – just in time for Christmas – yay!
3. I’ve got a bad acid stomach from all the meds – I have never had that or heartburn before – OUCH!
4. The hair – well, because the meds are really working, it is really falling out fast now. Oh well, next shopping excursion the wig store. I am just hoping that we keep reducing the steroids so I don’t have to try on wigs with a moon face…keep your fingers crossed for me.

I wanted to give you all a little philosophical context for my future blogs. Goodness knows, I’m not shy (except in crowds larger than 6 people or so), so most of you have probably heard what I’ve typed below and are (honestly) tired of hearing it. But just in case you didn’t know… this will give you insight into future blogs.

Spirituality: I was raised in the Christian faith. My Dad is Catholic, my Mom Protestant. I was baptized Lutheran, nearly didn’t graduate from a Southern Baptist High School. I’ve attended numerous “Christian” churches, from Catholic to 4-square. I prefer churches that sing a lot and preach less. My overall philosophy is that we should respect one another’s faith and belief systems.

Love & Relationships: I believe this life is all about relationships, good and bad. I haven’t been very lucky in the romantic category but very blessed with many other types. I considered parenting, as I believe that must be the most amazing, selfless type of love we get to experience on this earth. I’m still hoping for both to come into my life, in some non-traditional way.

Life: The bottom line, we are not in control of much in this life, just our reaction to our lack of control… Ask my Dad to tell you the “could be good or could be bad” story when you see him. I think it relates a healthy way to deal with life and stress.

Politics: I was raised Republican. I moved to San Francisco for 11 years and tried to convert to being a Democrat. Neither fit. I believe in stronger local government vs. federal to meet the needs of the “local” people. I would like lower taxes but am too realistic (some say pessimistic) to think that is going to happen any time soon (if ever). I don’t appreciate any politician promising things they “know” they can’t deliver. I see red (literally) when people discriminate and define it as other than discrimination. I don’t enjoy political debate, as I never feel like I have all the facts to make an informed decision…and I’m all about being informed :-) And we won’t talk about our Health Care System here…that deserves it’s own future blog.

Hopefully something above made you smile and/or laugh for the New Years? Cheers to you all! Drink champagne for me – I command you all!!!