It's been some time since I've posted. A combination of kids being out of school for summer break, busy schedules, FibroFog, and generally feeling a lack in creativity to post anything that was worth posting. It just so happens that I have a few uplifting things to report on so here I am, posting. :-)
I visited a Naturopath for the first time this week. The physician I saw also happens to be an acupuncturist as well, which she utilized on me during my appointment. I had always wanted to see a Naturopath but given that my insurance company didn't cover the cost (as most won't) I felt that it wasn't something within my financial capabilities. (Okay, admittedly I probably could have squeezed it into my negative-functioning budget but the act of spending money on myself, even for health matters, makes me feel guilty - I'd prefer only to spend it for the benefit of my children. So there, the truth.) The only reason I conceded to going this time was because GoogleOffers was offering a fantastic special of a 2hour visit with one of four types of practitioners. I feel lucky that I was paired up with a Naturopath that also is trained in acupuncture. It's like getting a 2for1 deal! :D
I'm still uncertain as to how much better I'll feel in the end of my treatment but at least I'm feeling hopeful again after countless modern medicine doctors have turned me away because I won't agree that loading me up on pills is the best approach for my treatment. My Naturopath has given me a list of lifestyle changes I have to adjust to, the most difficult one so far is the "anti-inflammation diet" which pretty much eliminates most of the foods I WAS able to tolerate given how bad my acid reflux & IBS have become. No milk products, no red meats, no corn products or corn byproducts (that's 90% of American diets anymore!), no sugar, no artificial sweeteners, no wheat, no breads.... ok, I would be better off telling you what I am allowed to eat! In addition to dietary changes, I have sleep habits to change, a new way to think of exercise, and a serious need to learn how to relax and de-stress. But you get the gist of it - Big Changes! I'm willing to make the sacrifice though. I'm so tired of feeling this way - so much pain, severe fatigue, and a lack of desire to continue living some days. This way I can at least say that I'm making an effort - and feeling hopeful for doing so.
As for my business, I am back in the saddle again - so to speak. I have begun to advertise on various websites and am placing new flyers in the community next week. I have calls to place with the American Arthritis Foundation, SW Washington Medical Center, and a number of local agencies that might be able and willing to help me get this support group up and running. All I need to do now is to stay on the horse and hang on tight.
