Hello from Houston

[lesliec]

Hi,

I'm a 31-year-old teacher who was diagnosed with Sjogren's and Fibromyalgia about a year ago. I live in Houston and wanted to see if there are any other Houstonians out there who would want to meet for a support group. I'm certainly not looking to complain about my symptoms, but it does help to have a support network to call on when your family and friends don't seem to understand.

I have a one-year-old and it can be quite difficult with fatigue, joint pain, and other ailments such as nausea and dizziness. I am not on any medication for Sjogren's (I had a bad experience with Plaquenil but am actually reconsidering getting back on.) All in all, I think I am handling my symptoms alright and would like to meet other people who have the illness.

Thanks,
Leslie

[Joe S.]

Howdy, lesliec. Welcome. It is a challenge raising children when you have AI. Some of us have posted what we are taking in our signature. Find what meds and supplements and alternative therapies work for you. I have had to use alternative therapies to manage my auto immune diseases. I hope that you have a significant other to help you with your precious 1 year old.

PS I am from MN not TX. You will find people on this forum from all over the world.

Oh, by the way you may want to read "spoon theory":
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory-written-by-christine-miserandino/

[Cheryl]

Hi Leslie,
  I hope you find your group!  In the meantime, welcome to our site!
Cheryl (from TN)

[hootyhu1]

Hi Leslie,
Im not in Houston but I am in Corpus Christi for atleast a few more months. I am 34 and also a mom to a 19 month old. I work full time as an ophthalmic technician which is kinda funny because I deal with SjS patients all the time so when I was Diagnosed I was like'what!?!?!' I don't have the dryness per say (some dry lips on occasion) but I have fatigue and joint pain which the plaquenil has helped.  My husband is in flight training so here in a few more months we will be moving to Jacksonville FL for anywhere from 4-10 months.

This site has been very helpful for me with info that I can't seem to get anywhere else online and it does help with the 'I'm not crazy or lazy' conversation that I have with my husband atleast one time a week. lol.  Welcome!-hootyhu

[dbab]

Hi Leslie,

Welcome! I'm in the CyFair area.  There is actually a support group that meets monthly at the Memorial Hermann Hospital at 610 North.  I'll try and find the email and get the info.  I'll send you a pm.

dbab