Shingles

Added another thing to my bucket list, Shingles.

#Shingles

I awoke this morning after yet another night on the sofa with Binks, my wee dog. I have chronic insomnia and so much pain I can’t climb the stairs. I was in luck last night, the start of a meteor shower, so many shooting stars, who needs fireworks? A brief glimpse the Northern Lights and a cup of tea at 3 o clock.
I’ve just kissed my husband, Paul before he goes to work. Every morning I make his sandwich, yes he could do it himself and happily would, but, it’s my little way of paying all his kindness back.
Ever since I had my Covid vaccine 3 years ago I have a shingles type rash in my genital area. It’s so, so painful, it’s like having pants full of fire ants.

It’s been a very, very rough 4 month’s, I’ve fallen down the stairs 4 times, bruised myself very badly, I’ve had Covid, 2 very dear, very fit friends died, far too soon. One a super fit, marathon running woman, days from her pension, had a back ache, went to the doctor and was told she had stage 4 pancreatic cancer, she lived just 11 days after diagnosis. The other a lovely, gentle bear of a man died from heart failure. One 65, the other just 60. It made me reflect that despite this godawful disease of mixed connective tissue disease, fibro, Behçet’s and rheumatoid arthritis, I’m still here. I’m so in tune with my body and its numerous creaks and groans I’d notice change. I miss them and will plant them roses in my rose garden. I’ve planted too many over 3 years.
Today I’m taking Binks my puppy out to the forest, it’s literally just our my door. I use my wheelchair, she runs ahead. I hope to sew butterfly wings for my granddaughter Emma and make a unicorn hobby horse.
I’m grateful for every moment of every day, could it be better? Of course, but, it’s still pretty wonderful.

Hi all!
I’m new here, I’m 28 and newly diagnosed with ET (about 2 months now, if that). Im JAK2 positive and so far my platelet count is relatively low (around 700) so I’m only taking aspirin, but I have had high white cell counts previously.
I don’t have a great support team at the hospital and my GP dosent work weekends, because NHS.

But I have an urgent question I am hoping the mighty community might be able to help me with. We have a 6 year old in the house who woke up spotty… it’s the pox, without a doubt. She’s all over me like a… well chicken pox rash usually, so I’m not a low risk household member.

I had chicken pox at her age, I remember my grandmother trying to scrub the spots off me!

But do I need to get myself the shingles vaccination? IG? Do I need to be contacting my haematologist or GP for antivirals just incase? How worried should I be about my immune system? Or am I totally overthinking this?

Pic of my sisters gato for tax!
#MyeloproliferativeNeoplasms
#immunity #chickenpox

Choosing the right roofing materials and adhering to design guidelines are crucial steps for homeowners and builders in LaPorte County. The region's climate and architectural styles demand careful consideration to ensure durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're replacing an existing roof or constructing a new one, understanding these factors is essential to making informed decisions.

Types of Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common roofing material due to their affordability and ease of installation. They come in a variety of colors and styles, suitable for different architectural designs in LaPorte County.

Metal Roofing: Known for its longevity and durability, metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular. It offers excellent resistance to fire and extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for the region's climate.

Wood Shingles and Shakes: While less common due to fire concerns, wood shingles and shakes offer a natural, rustic look that complements certain architectural styles in LaPorte County.

Slate and Tile: These materials are prized for their elegance and longevity but come at a higher cost. They are suitable for homeowners looking to invest in a durable and aesthetically pleasing roof.

Design Guidelines

Architectural Harmony: The design of your roof should complement the overall architectural style of your home and surrounding buildings. Traditional styles like Colonial, Craftsman, and Victorian often dictate specific roofing materials and pitches.

Energy Efficiency: Consider the energy efficiency of your chosen materials. Light-colored roofing can help reflect heat, reducing cooling costs in summer, while proper insulation can enhance overall energy performance throughout the year.

Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local building codes and homeowner association guidelines that may dictate roofing materials, colors, and installation practices in LaPorte County.

FAQs

Q: How often should I replace my roof in LaPorte County?

The lifespan of your roof depends on the materials used and environmental factors. Generally, asphalt shingles last about 20-25 years, while metal roofing can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.

Q: Are there restrictions on roofing materials in historic districts?

Yes, historic districts in LaPorte County often have strict guidelines to preserve the area's architectural integrity. Consult local authorities or preservation boards before making any decisions.

Q: What are the advantages of metal roofing in LaPorte County?

Metal roofing is highly durable and resistant to fire, wind, and hail, making it a practical choice for the region's variable weather conditions.

Q: How can I improve the energy efficiency of my roof?

Opt for materials with high solar reflectance and consider adding insulation to minimize heat transfer, thus reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. www.reliableroofingonline.com/city/laporte

Choosing the right roofing materials and adhering to design guidelines not only enhances the curb appeal of your home but also ensures long-term protection and energy efficiency. By understanding the unique considerations of LaPorte County, homeowners and builders can make informed choices that meet both aesthetic and practical needs.

It is so exciting to see all the new members joining the group and so many of you introducing yourself and sharing about your journeys. I wish I could be more active & better support you all right now, however I have had to really step back & focus on self care. Big props and thanks to our new co-leader Wendy Love for jumping in to acknowledge and support you all with empathy, care and sharing her great positive energy!

Dealing with layers of health challenges right now can be overwhelming for me sometimes. Some are relatively serious, some have me scared while waiting w/ lots of “not knowing!” I have had very regular health appointments (4-6/wk avg) since November, 1 minor surgery, am getting a biopsy this week, have had 2 ultrasounds, and MRI’s of my neck, shoulder & back which were injured from a bad fall when I also had my second concussion in less than a year . So I’ve been in PT 2x/week since last year then two months ago I was diagnosed w/ a rotator cuff injury🙁

I had debilitating migraines back in 2020 from Long Covid that were finally getting better from working w/ my Neurologist… trying monthly shots, infusions & Botox, finding the right meds - one daily & two as needed at onset, using a special tens unit, and an ice cap, taking OTC painkillers, nutritional supplements, etc. Then after the 1st concussion I went right back to 14-16 migraine days a month🙁

Due to my lack of appetite & insomnia from the concussions, plus the migraines, my doctors made major med changes for 8 months. The challenge was that most were psych meds, leaving me just hanging on emotionally through severe ups & downs as I stopped 2 meds, added 1 & changed the dosages of 3 others! After all of this I have just recently had the migraines decrease in frequency and intensity👍

From the concussions I have also dealt w/ brain fog, and memory & concentration issues that made writing so frustrating, which have also been better recently.

I think it really helps me that from a young age I watched my Dad model how to deal with life threatening health challenges w/ determination, dignity, unwavering positive energy, humor, and being a warrior & survivor who never gave up hope! Then I learned how to survive through decades of health challenges myself… inspired by my Dad’s example. I was diagnosed w/ Bipolar Disorder (1982); I have struggled parts of my life with addiction (almost 12 years sober); along those paths I contracted HIV almost 40 years ago then I was very blessed to survive the 80’s when AIDS was considered a death sentence. With my weakened immune system I dealt w/ many serious complications like Pneumonia, Shingles, Bronchitis, C-difficile, and Neuropathy that had me bedridden for 9 months & told I may never walk again…which I still deal w/ today on a lesser level and in 2020 I got hit with Covid real bad, so I've survived two pandemics.

Earlier this year my perspective about everything I’m dealing with currently really shifted. I came to the realization that all my health appointments were helping me heal, cope, and I believe that they will help me to return to being active and thriving again. The blessing of being on disability is that it enables me to focus on my health and self care. I have accepted that taking care of my health is a full time job! It can be very Physically & Emotionally draining, yet I remind myself regularly of all the blessings I DO have. I take solace in the fact that it could always be worse. I am very thankful to have a roof over my head, food on the table, and to have a strong support network of friends, family & health providers.

I have learned to accept my limitations, and adapt as I live & evolve in other ways like focusing on writing my memoir & other reflections, starting this MHC group and posting regularly. In the first 18 months I made over 80 posts from June 2021 through 2022! I will repost select ones starting soon.

Sending blessings, virtual hugs and positive vibes your way! Please send some back…

Moshe
@moshe222mhc

#MentalHealth #Depression #Anxiety #Disability #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #Selfcare Selflove #BipolarDisorder #BipolarDepression #ADHD #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #COVID19 #Migraine #Headache #HIVAIDS #PeripheralNeuropathy #BackPain #Addiction #AddictionRecovery #RareDisease #IfYouFeelHopeless #Hope #CheckInWithMe #InsideTheMighty #MightyTogether #DistractMe

I’ve been dealing with a nasty case of Shingles for nearly a month, now. It has been a persistently painful experience. I’ve had a lot of opportunities to remind myself during the outbreak phase that these things "take as long as they take." Healing is a long, slow process, requiring large amounts of time and patience.

Chronically ill patients like me don't often get to use the language of "healing;" for us, recovery is measured in tiny increments. "Success" looks like whatever goals the rehab team established as our "functional baseline," our particular blend of ability/disability, the limitations that we'd managed to surmount before the current episode of acute infection or illness came along and knocked the stuffing out of us (again).

I find that I am particularly salty about having contracted Shingles. I'm pretty sure that my indignation is justified. First of all, I'm too young to be in the "risk category" for the disease.

Second, I've been fully vaccinated, and my two doses of Shingrix in 2022 were supposed to prevent 90% of all cases (disclaimer: the pharmaceutical company says they only tested their data with healthy volunteers; they admittedly have no clue what the efficacy rates are for immunocompromised patients).

Third, I live in a place that has cold, snowy weather for six months of the year: after enduring another seemingly endless Calgary winter, I had anticipated spending June in my garden, not in my bed!

Fourth, the neuropathic pain of the Shingles virus has targeted my lumbar spine and flank, and these firey hot fingers of pain have been constant, throbbing, and intense. I already live with severe chronic pain; adding a new quality/intensity of pain to this already miserable mess of a spine just seems fundamentally unfair.

Fifth, getting blindsided by an unexpected illness is always upsetting. I am used to scheduling multiple medical appointments, treatments, and follow-ups on a weekly basis, but the ability to plan ahead allows me to balance my energy level with the medical load so that I can give myself enough "margin" to recover between biopsies, infusions, and procedures. My informal pacing program is a significant component of my successful medical management. Having a new diagnosis land on me "out of the blue" disrupts my carefully calibrated medical schedule and adds stress to other areas of our family schedule. Chronic issues become acute illnesses, the dominoes begin to fall, and chaos quickly ensues.

Sixth, antiviral medications make me feel like a zombie. Bleck. I'm a pukey, dizzy, brain-foggy, forgetful, utterly worn-out mess of a woman, these days. I am the epitome of exhaustion, a shadow of my previously perky and authentically optimistic self.

I just want to hurry up and feel better, already ... which is exactly why I need a generous serving of patience (but the sooner, the better!)

Patience is a gift that we can learn to cultivate, day by day, and situation by situation. Patience is a lot like a spiritual muscle, and it either grows or atrophies, depending on whether we use it regularly, or not.

Our daily interactions certainly give us all ample opportunities to practice extending patience to our friends and neighbours, coworkers and colleagues, family members and strangers (especially the people with questionable driving habits!)

Still, patience can be a hard gift to extend - perhaps particularly so when we need to give this spiritual gift to ourselves.

For example, when our bodies don’t work the way we want them to, how do we respond?

When our work feels overwhelming, or when we feel time-pressured and pulled in a dozen different directions, does our internal monologue reveal kind comments or harsh judgments?

When we feel discouraged about the state of our soul, our family, our community or our congregation, our country, or even the future of our planet during this time of ecological crisis, what is our attitude toward ourselves and toward others?

Where are the places in our lives that need a generous serving of love and compassion, kindness and humility, gentleness and patience?

These are spiritual gifts that God offers to all of us, freely and generously. Once we receive these beautiful gifts from God, we can also choose to give those gifts to ourselves.

Colossians 3:12 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible. It says, “therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Just like I dressed my body in physical clothing that was suitable for the weather in my local area this morning, I can also choose to get dressed in the spiritual clothing that my circumstances require of me, today and every day. We can choose to put on gentleness instead of acting aggressively; we can wear kindness instead of criticism, too. Humility can replace pridefulness in our capsule wardrobe, and everyone looks gorgeous when pairing patience and compassion - those spiritual qualities look good on literally every body, at every age.

As a disabled person who lives with multiple illnesses and constant chronic pain, my body simply isn't able to complete all the tasks I would like it to. In my mind, I'm still a teenager with endless energy and supple joints; I sometimes forget how easily my osteopenic bones can crack and crumble, or how demanding my Crohn's diseased bowel can become after just half-a-blessed-bowl of cereal in the middle of a morning meeting.

It takes the just-a-little-too-long furtive stare, followed by the subsequent too-embarrassed-to-meet-my-eye scrutiny of a stranger in the grocery store checkout line to remind me of the prominent pink surgical scar that runs from the top of my right ear all the way down to the base of my neck, these days; it's the scar that the ENT surgical team carved into my flesh last October.

A couple of family members initially suggested that it was unsightly, that I should try to cover it up with cosmetics, but I wear it as a badge of honour, now. My scar has become part of my body, and it isn't unsightly to me; in fact, I think that it is beautiful!

That scar is a tangible reminder of the cancer that threatened my life last year, and of the surgeon who painstakingly peeled apart every last layer of the tumour, which was wound around my facial nerve and had grown into my face, neck, lymph nodes, and the major blood vessles, including my carotid artery. The ENT surgeons removed every last bit of that gnarly tumour, and I am thankful for the knowledge and skill demonstrated by every member of my surgical team.

Yes, my mouth droops on one side, my post-surgical ears don't quite match, and I have a "defect" where my right parotid gland and the soft tissue of my neck used to be; yes, there is permanent nerve damage and facial weakness, and it is a persistently odd feeling to walk around with a partially numb face, scalp, and an ear that feels like a hunk of dead cabbage; still, I am grateful for every single "deficit" and I practice patience whenever strangers stare at my scar.

I know that I am beautiful, and that beauty is not DESPITE my physical imperfections and scars, but in large part, BECAUSE of them.

I had to learn how to forgive my body for "letting me down." My cancer diagnosis felt like a betrayal or a failure - as if my immune system just wasn't up for the task of protecting itself - myself - from the daily onslaught of malignant cells, bacteria, fungi, viruses, toxins, and other threats.

I had to learn how to give myself the gift of patience, how to extend gentleness and kindness to my own unique and uniquely vulnerable body.

It wasn't a quick or easy process, but it was definitely a valuable one. Once I figured out how to be patient with myself, then showing patience to nosy neighbours, clueless relatives, and staring strangers got a lot easier, too. Patience requires regular practice. That's the secret!