Re: RC: Fibromyalgia

["nina bomar" <caballos@worldnet.att.net>]

Thank you Sandy for your insight!  I remain very active riding/running and even get in a swim or two when time permits!  I feel great when I exercise.  The real bugger is when I stop.  My body has to constantly be moving for me to feel somewhat normal.  Part of the problem is that it is difficult for me to rest because I tie-up just like a horse (probably not as extreme!).  Then there is a fear factor of the anticipated pain and it get to be an ugly cycle. 

 

I have corresponded with many riders who have the same diagnosis and it amazes me just how many people are suffering from this ailment.  It is discouraging to hear that there is no "cure" and at this point I'd just like to manage the pain effectively. 

 

I am sorry to hear that you have struggled with so much pain and that it has affected you in many areas of your body.  My prayers are with you as you regain your health and strength.  We are fortunate to have the blessings of our friends, family and beloved horses!

 

God Bless,

Nina Bomar

----- Original Message -----

From: SandyDSA@aol.com

To: ridecamp@endurance.net ; caballos@worldnet.att.net

Sent: Monday, September 24, 2001 7:34 AM

Subject: Re: RC: Fibromyalgia

HiNina,

I hate to be the one to say so but I have a good friend who has this diagnosis. I would be happy to help you any way I can.
I call it a diagnosis because, as much as I love my friend, I think she has let far too many people tell her far too many things that she can't or shouldn't do.

Last fall after a prolonged, WEIRD illness, 2 blood pulls showed a marker for Lupus. Well, while I was pretty well knocked on my tush, I thought, that would explain the arthritis I have had since I was about 16 years old. Didn't make it go AWAY - just made it made it make sense. Now I have developing arthritis in both hips, hands and fingers; wrists, and now in my spine. So as the pain increased TWO years ago, the less I was active. When I would run o ride, the pain was just excruciating, So I did less and less of it.

Then my new friend Lisa Schneider and her darling hubby - well, they weren't having any of THAT:) and so slowly I took up their challenge - to get back into shape so that my back would NOT throb! Over about 3 months i found that after 3 miles of riding or a mile of running, the pain began to subside. Now I can run about 3-4 miles, ride 30 or 40, and though at times it does hurt - just happens, I don't know why - for the HUGE majority of the time, I don't let it stop me. I keep on top of any developing pain or tightness, and of course try to get enough rest (Yeah, sure my boss says!)

Nina, for one thing, this is a DIAGNOSIS - and probably not the only one. If you would like to come over, you and I can go for a walk or ride and chat about it for a while.

You know, if I didn't love Shel and Lisa for the terrific friends they are, I would love them for changing a very special part of my life - I have always been so active and to be told to slow down - well, THAT didn't set well. They have encouraged without judgment and supported every step of the way, cajoling when needed, and always ALWAYS caring. For that I can never thank them enough! So Nina, let any of us who are able help find your way with you - there is too much to gain by doing it - not to!

Sandy