For 10 years I sought out allergists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, internists, psychiatrists, trying to discover what was ailing me. The lack of diagnosis and inappropriate medical care led to the loss of an active social life and a lucrative career. As my illness progressed I lost the quick response and problem solving abilities that had led to my position as director of Management Information Services for a not for profit provider of heath care services. In an attempt to live with this disorder, I have changed careers, changed jobs with in the new career cut back my house until I could no longer work. My fifth concern is research.
Research is the hope for our future.
No one knows why are some people so badly effected by FMS and others only mildly effected. I cannot answer those questions because the research has not yet been done. All I know is I can't join the YWCA because my physicians won't give me a note to participate in the aquatics exercise because I have seizures. I do not get pain medication because I have seizures, so I am left with a life of incredible amounts of daily pain. Yet there was no press coverage in New York, and despite the 40 letters from friends and neighbors to my Senators and Congressman, I have yet 6 weeks later to receive a response.