Hi everyone

[suebrew]

Hi,just wanted to introduce myself.Feel normal reading all the posts.I am 53yrs living in Australia.I am very lonely & scared as no-one even knows what sjogrens is let alone all the other quirks I suffer from.Anyway just wanted to connect to fellow sufferers,thankyou

[Patze]

Hi Suebrew!

Let me welcome you to the SJS World and family! 

I'm glad that you've been able to look around the board as it's such an amazing place (I'm often in the stacks reading as the rheumy doesn't say much about it).

I know what you mean about being scared, and like a lot of others here, I sure can tell you some stories (being sero negative made things a lot harder). 

And always remember, when you're here, you're with family! 

Come often, and join us in the chat room when you have some time (the chat schedule is located in the upper center of this page).

Take care of yourself and hang in there -

Patze

[Carolina]

G'day suebrew!

Welcome to the forum.

I look forward to hearing from you on a regular basis.

Hugs

Elaine

[Joe S.]

Welcome to the forum.

Don't panic - learn about management
read spoon theory: http://butyoudontlooksick.com/navigation/BYDLS-TheSpoonTheory.pdf
Breath in "I am" breathe out "calm"

[Pisces24]

I can understand as I am solo too with this. 
I was an only child and caretaker to my folks prior to their passing. The closest family I have a 1st cousins with thier own kids, grand kids, etc.   Basically I am not a "priority" with anybody.  I think you get what I mean.

Having someone to talk to helps. I would suggest a couple session with a counselor (not physchologist, etc). He/she can at least help you on managing the stress etc.  You nned to learn to be an advocate and stick up for yourself.

Don't let things pile up on you. Take it one day, one week, one test, however you can take it at a time. Don't let it put your life on emotional hold. I got a tentative diagnosis of cancer and for about 3 months was waiting for the ceiling to cave in.  You are soooo much more than the sum of your diseases/illnesses!

Good Luck and keep us posted.

[lynnmarie219]

Hi Suebrew and welcome to Sjogrens World!

Glad to meet you but sorry it had to be under these circumstances. I'm sure you will find this place very helpful and supportive...you are not alone in this anymore!

[smallfry]

G'Day Sewbrew
like you I am only new and an Aussie to boot.
Isn't this just wonderful to have so much support and information I just can't stop reading the posts.
I will look forward to hearing from you again and yes it is very scary and hopefully we will no longer feel alone.
Smallfry

[suebrew]

Thankyou everyone.you have made me feel alive & happy with all your lovely welcomes.I am so thankful I found this site.You truly are blessed people to be able to take the time to care about others.I actually had a good day today knowing that I now have a lifeline to tap into anytime .