Written under the influence

This morning I was in the shower and realized I couldn't squeeze the shampoo out of the bottle into my hand because the pain in my joints was so severe. I may have panicked. A little. Shortly thereafter I was on the phone with my doctor and on my way to the emergency room. For the last 9 hours I have been poked, prodded, questioned and have provided many a bodily fluid for inspection. Fun stuff.

The answer: They have no idea what's wrong with me.

A virus? Lupus? Stressed-out-mama-of-four-syndrome? Obviously we are hoping for a virus. A really strange, painful virus. We have to wait for some test results to return. And even then it may be a matter of seeing if my symptoms abate or reoccur if/when they do.

In the meantime I am on 5 (yes, five!) prescriptions for pain, swelling, stiffness and the fact that I am apparently severely anemic. The doctor at the hospital even mentioned a possible blood transfusion if it didn't improve and my own doctor has prescribed a weekly iron transfusion. I think my response may have been something like "But will that stop the pain?"

"No. Unrelated most likely."

Bummer.

Anyway, thank you so much for all your prayers. I feel surprisingly relaxed about the situation, and while that is partly due to a generous dose of Lortab, I believe strongly that your prayers and concern brought me peace and encouragement. I count you all in my blessings.

And look! I'm typing.

I count Lortab in my blessings too. :)