Introduction

[EllenS]

I'm 45, a wife and mom of 2 grown kids. I have had autoimmune issues for a long time, as well as other health challenges. Most of the time I manage to stay joyful and happy, but I do get down once in a while too - I'm only human.

Before I was sidelined, I was passionate about my horses and animals, volunteering with youths and for local emergency management, and stained glass. First and foremost I am a Christian, mom and wife.

I'm here today to look for Sjogren's support and information.

Years ago I was Dx'd with Lupus. Then I was un-diagnosed. Then diagnosed again. Not sure what's going on to tell the truth. Anyway, last year my SSA was positive, and a few months ago my SSB was also positive. I'm having some pretty nasty symptoms and dealing with them has been beyond difficult. I have been hospitalized for some of my symptoms. My doctors are frustrated and to make matters worse, I lost two of them this summer when they moved. I've been unable to replace them as of yet.

Other things currently on my plate include: Graves' Disease, Dystonia, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Migraine and other headaches, LPR, Raynaud's, malabsorption and vitamin deficiencies, Osteoporosis, insulin resistance, Endometriosis and pcos. They are still investigating some other issues as well, so we'll see what that reveals. For now, this is enough to keep me busy!

As a result of all this, I had to quit my job as an emergency dispatcher, and eventually was asked to become a Health Activist and advocate for many different health issues, so I try my best to pass along good information if I can.

I'd love to connect with others who share my challenges.

Oh yes, fair warning I suppose - I do tend to be long-winded and make jokes about how I feel. I'm not making light of some really serious health issues... I'm just dealing with my life the best way I know how. With joy and happiness and as many smiles and laughs as I can muster. Endorphins are my only pain killer right now, so I use them liberally!

~Ellen

[tomsmom]

Hi Ellen,
I'm Danni.  I have Graves, MCTD (Lupus overlap), and Sjogrens.  I'm also in the same boat where doctors can't tell me what symptoms are due to which of my "gifts".  This site is full of really interesting, knowledgable and kind people.   Take care!

[lynnmarie219]

Hi Ellen and welcome to Sjogrens World!

Glad that you found us......you will find a lot of information here as well as support and friendship from all over the world. If you have any questions or want to offer your own experiences and information to others...feel free to jump right in whenever you are comfortable doing so!

I like your outlook on life and all of the "gifts" it can bring and I definitely understand using humor.....it has helped me as well and having this kind of outlook will take you far!

Welcome to the family!

[Bernice]

Hey Ellen!

Welcome to the pack. You will find a safe place to vent, cry and laugh here among the Sjogren family. I like you love to laugh, it helps me when most nothing else does, after all I'm the main character in my lifelong variety comedy show.

[Scottietottie]

Hi Ellen 

Welcome to Sjogren's world. You sound as though you'll fit right in here! I hope you find the site useful.

Take care - Scottie 

[EllenS]

You guys are so awesome!  Thank you all for the wonderful welcome!!

I am anxious to learn more about all of this.  I've been perusing existing threads, but if you know of one or two you'd like to direct me to, please let me know.

~Ellen

[Katybarstool]

Hi Ellen

I'm glad you decided to join us. You are in good company. Welcome!

Kathyx

[Patze]

Hi Ellen,

Let me also welcome you to the SJS World and family!  Please do look around, as there are tons of topics that you just might be interested in.

Come often, and don't be shy about asking questions as there is usually someone about.

Take care -

Patze

[Bucky]

Hi Ellen . . . welcome to your new Sjoggie family.     We are a very diverse group - ranging in age from 5 yrs. old on up into the 70's, some are working, some on disability, some retired, and some in school.  It's a fun group - hope you find lots of useful information here and make some new friends along the way.   

Bucky

[jaygee]

Hi Ellen

This is a great place to be, with many informative and caring members.  Welcome      xx

[EllenS]

Thank you all so much for the welcome.  I've been reading so long now it is beginning to feel like home.    I have a lot to learn.  I hope I can help somewhere along the way too.