Fortunately, I did not give up my quest.  I believe that people with autoimmune diseases are very strong willed.  We may get down but we always find something beautiful in each day to help us realize that it is worth being here!

     My story starts 5 years ago, I am now 44.  I was in terrible pain, aching tired, my eyes were burning, tearing and I was overweight, depressed and generally not living life to the fullest.  I was functioning but not the way I should have been but I did not know what was wrong and I really didn't care.  I was too tired, too sick, too scared.  But it got so bad I knew I could not hide from the symptoms anymore.

     I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia by a Rheumatologist.  I started the pain med's, stronger and stronger, then I was diagnosed with Endometriosis 2 years ago.   When they opened me up to do the hysterectomy I was stage 4, a mess......8 pounds of tumors were removed along with repair to my bowel.  November 4th, 2003 was the day I got my life back.  I celebrate this day with more enthusiasm than my own birthday!  I felt 99% well and like a new woman.  I really thought my Endometriosis was the cause of everything, that I really did not have Fibromyalgia.  This girl is tough, that's what I mean about people with autoimmune diseases...we have to be strong - we love life and we want so much to enjoy it as much as possible.

     A month ago I was diagnosed with Sjogren's, I knew I had it years before any Dr. diagnosed it.  I had started researching on my own, with my symptoms returning but with more clarity.  They were not masked by the Endometriosis since that was taken care of.  This diagnosis was scary but I was prepared because I knew all along, I guess I just wanted confirmation.

     You have to see me now...... I am so healthy looking and vibrant that I radiate life, love and vitality.  You see as my nutritionist told me "I got it" and I hope that this will inspire others to do the same.  She told me some people get it and some never do.  This is not some miracle, although I believe in them...it is plain hard work, it started a year ago.

     I joined a health club and I go at least 5 times a week.  I got a personal trainer who has motivated me beyond words.  I started to eat right, lots of vegetables, tofu, organic chicken, organic eggs, vitamins, flax seed oil.  No more pain medications, I threw them all away.

     I have lost 55 lbs. body fat and gained a whole new outlook on life.  Sure there are days my body aches and my eyes burn like fire but I cannot let that change who I am - I want to live and NOTHING will take that away from me.

     I work full time, my co-workers tell me I look 10 years younger and every single day I get compliments about my zest for life.  This is what keeps me going.  I know that I have a battle ahead of me but I am taking this on head first!  Instead of thinking my life is going to be one big headache, I think my life has a rainbow and I am riding it.

     So my message is, everyone has a story to tell, but dwelling on the pain and suffering for just one moment, is a moment wasted on this disease - be strong, do everything you can - not everything works for everyone.  Take what the doctor's tell you with a grain of salt, challenge the system, try new things as long as they are not dangerous or harmful.  I had to try a lot of different combinations before I felt this way.....it is a learning experience and I thank all of the people who wrote to you because we all are Sisters and I support you all and send my prayers that you too will find a way to live life!

Regards,