The Medical Mystery Tour
Paging Dr. House…. Dr. House? No? Oh. Oh! How ’bout Dr. Oz? You there? Hellloooo? …….. Well, eff. Now what do I do?
Yup, its Tuesday, which means its time for another medical mystery in my life to come out of nowhere and ruin everything.
‘Memba how for my whole adult life I’ve had an auto-immune disease which only affects my eyes? And ‘memba how in January, I had my foot filleted to remove an alien baby that came back with inconclusive pathology reports? And ‘memba how I went vegan 6 months ago to try and save myself from exactly these sorts of medical issues?
Well, I’m disturbed, annoyed, frustrated and angry to report that there is now another mass in my foot. Just one inch over from where the last one was removed. And unlike the last one, which grew very slowly over a period of 2 years, this one seems to be in a hurry.
Yesterday we went back to the orthopedist who took care of the last surgery, to have it examined. He reminded us that his best guess last time was that it looked like a rheumatoid nodule, and the lab results had included that as one of a few possible diagnoses. (Sidebar: my eye problem is very often a symptom of a bigger problem, like oh… rheumatoid arthritis, for example. So, its natural to assume my eye problems could be related to what ever is going on with my foot.) The trouble is… why my foot? Why only that foot? Which begs the (horrifying but real) question: is it possible that there are other masses like this in my body, we just can’t see them yet? The doctor poked around, concluded that this new mass is very similar to the last mass, and recommended I schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist for further testing.
Further testing. My two least favorite words in the english language.
Oh, and then he urged us to consider having kids sooner rather than later… “because your treatment may not allow it later“. Just what we wanted to hear.
What I really want is (as in desperately crave) is to see a naturopathic specialist, who will treat my whole body at once… but of course, insurance doesn’t cover that. And I’m already in enough medical debt, thankyouverymuch, so I’m relegated to western medicine. As luck would have it, we just applied for small business health insurance through Broke-Ass Media – so I should be covered. As luck wouldn’t have it, my previous plan was was the BOMB and I will miss its low copays and high percentage of coverage dearly.
Good lawd. Its just like me to get laid off one week, and develop another medical mystery the next. So, I hereby dub this quest for clarity The Medical Mystery Tour. Won’t you follow along on my (insert dramatic emotional adjective) journey?
where are you located? have you considered going to a local school of natural medicine? they often see/treat patients at a reduced cost…
Often times there are naturopaths who work with MDs and their treatment would be covered if the MD writes a referral letter to the insurance company. Have you considered that? Just an idea, anyway I hope they figure out what is going on.
I commiserate… this last year, the doctors have put enough radioactive chemicals in me for tests, that if I don't end up with at least one super power, I'm going to be pissed…
I hear you, Dana
I've been ill for almost a year with a migraine condition that makes me dizzy all the time. Acupuncture is supposed to be great for it but it's so darn expensive… I'm just so tired of all the doctors and their egos. Hang in there, you're a tough cookie. Keep that positive frame of mind; your blog always cheers me up.
PS – would love it if you could add me on twitter… i often respond to your tweets but since my acct is private i don't think you can see 'em.
I'm in a similar situation as yourself, I also have a pre existing condition where I cannot get health insurance. I am currently on a state run CA program but it has a limit of $75,000 a year – which isn't much in this country. I'm just waiting waiting waiting for 2014 when Obama's plan for adults with pre existing will kick in and let us be covered. I wish you all the best, and I feel your pain.
UGHH! I'm sorry you have to go through this. The not knowing part can be a lot more harmful. I hope you get to the bottom of your mystery and I hope it's just a calcium deposit gone rouge. Best! Silvana
Arrgh! Makes me crazy, the whole insurance co deciding your treatment. Even my Doc is fed up. Anyhooo… luv your writing style. Hugs
Oh, and that kitty pic is so Dr. House.
I'm so sorry to hear that! I know that seeing someone that insurance doesn't pay for can so expensive, so prioritize where your money goes. Cut back on things that are not good for your body (*cough* diet coke *cough*) and do things that are inexpensive changes (eating low-inflammatory foods, exercising). You only get one body (a slammin' one at that), you gotta treat it right. Does your insurance cover chiropractic care? Many of them are trained in nutrition and exercise too. You could go that route. From personal experience, I've seen chiropractic help rheumatoid symptoms. Good luck!!
I'm so sorry, Dana. My husband has rheumatoid arthritis (developed when he was a kid) and I see how it has affected his life. Thinking of you and hoping for the best!
Oh Dana, I'm so sorry you have to go through this. *hugs* I hope that all works out for the best and that your health problems will soon be a thing of the past!
I hate this!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You will be here soon, and I will zap love and magic into your alien bulge.
Coming out of lurking to send positive thoughts and well wishes your way. The healthcare system in this country frustrates me so. I hope everything works out.
Chin up, Sweet! Thinking boutcha…
Wow. the picture is funny. The two cats are looking chubby and cute. Very nice post.
Support and love. I remember first reading and seeing your eye patch right before your wedding so I know youve been through a lot. Glad it's nothing serious, but I hope they figure out why its all happening so you dont have to rush having brokeass babies!
I multiply the love and healing power with MaPo with my healing hands and heart!
I love your blog!!! I know it's ANTI-budget, but in an emergency move, I had to call Jenny. I've got 8 months to go, and like 40 lbs to lose. Leaving me like 2 weeks to find a dress…….They are pretty down on my severe diet coke habit too. Maybe we should just switch to plain ol coke? But I digress…..I am podiatrist and am DYING of curiosity about what the hell is going on with your foot! If there is any way I can help you, please let me know. Except in March. It's my Broke-Ass-Bridezilla (BAB) month.
I'm sure you're sick of suggestions….
but here's another…
watch the movie- food matters
read the blog: http://www.marksdailyapple.com/gut-flora-healthy-…
I'm in LA, but that's a really great idea. Thanks, I'll look into it!
Oooooh, I like the way you think! I'll look into it!
LOL. Also: hugs
Honey, find an acupuncturing school or one that has "donation-only" days. They're lifesavers!
*hugs*
Thanks Silvana! You're so sweet
Aw, thanks Mari!
LOL
Thanks Sam! You really helped put it in perspective. I appreciate that!
xoxoxox to you AND your hubby.
Thanks sweetie!
MaPooooooo! I misss youuuuuuu!
Yay! A lurker! Don't lurk anymore, Kayce – I liiiiiiive for comments! Thanks so much for the kind words
xoxoxo
Haha thanks, Bruce!
Awwww, thanks Diana!
I love you, sister!
Girl – there's no such thing as ANTI budget. Its all about spending wisely, on what matters to you. Splurging on Jenny is GREAT if that works for you! Congrats! I promise to keep you posted about my stupid foot
Thank you Dev!
Although I've seen lots of comments, thought I might add my two cents. See if you can visit a D.O. – Doctor of Osteopathy. They are just like MDs and are covered like them too – however, they tend to have a more holistic approach, treat the issue not just the symptoms. They also usually take on less patients and really get to know you. I have a D.O. and love him. Top notch care.
May I suggest Paracelsus clinic in Pasadena. They have a D.O. and a Naturopathic Doctor. I interned with them when I was studying to be a Naturopathic Doctor. Both Dr. Barker N.D. and Dr. Brousseau D.O. are amazing and Dr. Brousseau may be covered by insurance. If not you can check out my website at http://www.simplefamilyhealth.com. I am setting up a satellite clinic in Santa Clarita this summer and can take you on as a patient on a sliding scale basis.
Good luck,
Dr. Jennifer Weidner, N.D.
P.S. I love your website and tell all of my friends who are engaged to visit it!!