(no subject)

[holly_evolving]

So it's probably not Lupus...but I have been diagnosed with joint hyper-mobility syndrome. This means that the connective tissues (tendons and ligaments) in the affected joints are less dense than they are supposed to be, which causes slippage of the joints. Essentially, I hyperextend those joints all the time without knowing it. As long as I keep the muscles flexible, it shouldn't progress beyond soreness, although there are cases of HMS turning into something more severe (I can't remember the name) but it's rare and there's no warning, so why worry? There are no outward symptoms to HMS, so it usally gets written off as some sort of non-specific pain disorder. Doesn't help that it's pretty rare and little research has been done. Which joints, do you ask? With the exception of my ribs, I clear the 95th percentile for hyper-mobility at EVERY JOINT IN MY BODY. Wrists, knees, elbows, neck, the works. Hence I'm so sore everywhere all the time. Right now, the only known treatment is to keep my muscles flexible (to avoid tearing when the joints dislocate) and take anti-inflammatories as needed.

My dad has cancer. Specifically, he had malignant tumors on his colon, which spread to his liver, but they've already been removed and he's on chemo. This in the space of two weeks. I haven't really had the time to react to any of it, since I just found out a couple of hours ago. My head is spinning and I'm completely overwhelmed. He's at Beth Israel of Boston under the care of Dr. Goldstein, and since my godfather has made a number of generous contributions to the hospital, my dad gets what he needs the second he needs it. So he'll be fine...hell, he's fine now. But it's cancer. He's on an epidural till the worst of the pain is over, and my godmother says he's in a great mood...how I feel changes by the second.

Comments

[galenide14.livejournal.com]

Honestly, with all that's happening in your life, I can't think of anything I should say that's appropriate. It's been a while since I've seen you, and the LJ is the only way we've kept in touch. Just so you know, I'm thinking of you despite being so far away. I'm sure that you won't let this get to you, and that you're willing to adjust to maximize your level of happiness.

BTW, did George ever give you the gift I bought you from Japan?