Looking For Answers

[Ldoc]

Hi Everyone. I have been reading your stories and they have given me a some great information but would ask if I could trouble you for some more. My husband was taken into hospital with a suspected Cancerous tumour in his nose. His consultant, who happens to be a WG specalist, has confirmed that he believe it to be WG. We have been told that the test results so far indicate WG but we are waiting on the ANCA test, due next week. From what I can gather due to the swift actions of our GP and the fab consultant it looks as though this has been caught really early, as we honestly can't think of any other symptoms that he has had, other than the old cold and the feeling that something has been "hanging on him". Everything that I have read about this condition terrifies me and I was wondering if anyone could tell me if the treatment is really as bad as it sounds, what I can do to help my husband through this and what we can expect going forward. The only concern that my husband seems to have, not that I care as last week we thought there could be a chance that I could lose him altogether, is will he be able to work as he does through treatment. I pray that everyone of you does well as you deal with one of the most frightening things I have heard of in a long time

[drz]

Marcus has a great recovery story here that should reduce your fears. Prognosis is very good if caught very early and case is mild which sounds like your husbands situation.

[Dirty Don]

Like Marcus and your husband, I was caught early on in WG with only varying neuropathy & damaged sinuses (call me Froggy now!), and at 7 months I am in remission. Yea! if I did work (retired), I believe most days I could have done it...but there will be some where he just won't feel like or even be able to get off the couch, so to speak. All depends on the severity & his (and yours) attitude towards this nasty devil of a disease. Best of luck!

[annekat]

For many of us, the treatment is not that bad. The chemo is in much smaller doses than cancer patients get, though there are some dangers to be aware of in taking it every day for a long time. For me and others, the side effects diminished after awhile. Everyone is different. Some cases are more severe and much more debilitating than others. You should be encouraged that your husbands case was caught early. Many of us continue to work with WG, to varying degrees. Some have continued the full-time careers they had before. It's true that every day is different and you may have to make some allowances for bad days. Good luck to your husband and you in dealing with this, and may his case continue to be on the milder side. The forum is always here for any questions or stories you want to share. There are some people here who really know a lot about WG.

[Al]

The ANCA test is not really required for a diagnosis (about 10 percent of WG patients are ANCA negative), though usually a biopsy is. Also, Patients in remission are usually (but not always) ANCA negative. It would be strong confirming evidence, however. The ability to work while undergoing treatment is vitally important for many patients. As I point out often on this forum, feeling useful and productive is an important part of being human. Some of us can and do work regularly; others not so much. And some feel that they have paid their dues, and are happy to be productive on the golf course, and with grandkids. I personally am nearing official retirement, but wish to continue working as much as I can (which isn't quite as much as I need to work to pay the bills, but...blame the economy!). The issue is that most of us have good days and bad days. But it is interesting that, after a few days or weeks of anxiety, most of us are actually preety upbeat about the future, and a few have gone on to do things that are not easy for anyone--like climb Mount Everest.

Al

[KathyB]

Welcome Ldoc to the most interesting and informative forum experience. You can ask anything, offer suggestions, or share your story. But most importantly, you will find people from all walks of life living with WG who care about you and your husband. Happy to hear they caught his WG early. I'm sure his prospects are very good!

[mishb]

Hi Ldoc and welcome to the forum. I too was very scared of this illness prior to this forum but after reading many old and new posts, learned to gain comfort from everyones knowledge.
I also have mainly sinus involvement and I work 9 hrs every weekday with another 2 hrs travel time between home and work and back again.

Everyone experiences different symptoms and different levels of energy and also different reactions to medications and therefore everyone has varying abilities on whether they can work or even whether they can get out of bed on some days. Even those that may just have sinus involvement still experience it in different ways than others do.

Once I drag myself out of bed for the day and hop into a hot shower then I am ready to tackle the world, but on the weekends it's another story. I am hardly ever out of bed before lunchtime, allowing myself a re-charge of batteries to be able to tackle the world again the next week.
My husband is the best support I could ever ask for and he picks up the slack around the home.

I hope that your husbands conditions get under control quickly and am happy that he was diagnosed so soon.

Take care

[Ldoc]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply. This has certainly made me feel better, I apprecaite you all taking the time. Paul has now got a chest infection, fingers crossed this is just coincidence. Back at the hospital on Tuesday, taking things one step at a time

[Dryhill]

Hi Ldoc, welcome to the forum. It makes a nice change to hear of your husband being diagnosed early in his new Weggy life, most of us were not so lucky.

I am not in remission and though I do have off days when I cannot work, most weeks I am able to work a full six day week. Like Michelle, however, I do mostly rest on Sundays so I can get through the coming week. Being a self-employed taxi driver means I can come and go when it suites me and can (and do) disappear for the odd nap in my car. Is your husbands work very physical such as a builder? In which case he may have more of a problem working than me.

The chemo side of things was not too bad, I had cyclophosamide infusions every three weeks and while they did make me incredibly tired for two or three days I had no nasty side effects. Ok so my hair seems to have thinned out, but it was doing that anyway and is now a more distinguished grey rather than its previous exciting mouse colour. For me the worst thing is the steroids, I was already overweight and boy did they add some more bulk!!!!!! Mind you if I get tired of cabbing I can probably now get the job as Michelien Man.

You asked "what I can do to help my husband through this" . What I have found most helpful is support and encouragement, but being allowed to do things for myself when I feel able to. My ex used to come round on the weekend of chemo week, and do the housework that had got on top of me. My neighbour sometimes cuts my lawn and his wife checks that I am ok and still coping. Hopefully your husband will be ok and both of you will able to lead a life very similar to the one you had.

Jim

[Al]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply. This has certainly made me feel better, I apprecaite you all taking the time. Paul has now got a chest infection, fingers crossed this is just coincidence. Back at the hospital on Tuesday, taking things one step at a time I know it is sort of my mantra, but I keep saying that, for Weggies, there is no such thing as "just an infection". Any infection is a potential trigger for riling up the immune system, and thus setting of the disease again. Not that it always turns our that way, but it is worth watching with a jaundiced eye (so to speak). For what it is worth, both my big flares were preceded directly by a bronchial infection (whether viral or bacterial I do not know). So some patients may be more susceptible to triggers-by-infection than others.

Al

[drz]

I know it is sort of my mantra, but I keep saying that, for Weggies, there is no such thing as "just an infection". Any infection is a potential trigger for riling up the immune system, and thus setting of the disease again. Not that it always turns our that way, but it is worth watching with a jaundiced eye (so to speak). For what it is worth, both my big flares were preceded directly by a bronchial infection (whether viral or bacterial I do not know). So some patients may be more susceptible to triggers-by-infection than others.

Al

In my last flare I bronchitis and eye, ear, and sinus infections. Not sure if infections caused the flare or the flare caused the infections but they came together. So any infections are a big alert I think.

[Sangye]

Hi Ldoc, welcome to the group! It's great that they diagnosed your husband so quickly. I don't think there is a typical way that people respond to treatment--it's highly varied, just like the actual disease. There are several different treatments, as well, and varied doses depending on the severity and involvement. Some people have done great even on the high doses of the stronger drugs, and some have not. With Wegs it's best not to compare or have expectations about treatment, remission, etc.... Just focus on getting better.

[MCC]

As others have said it is different for everyone but speaking for myself I didn't find the treatment bad. I felt terrible pre diagnosis and had 3 weeks off work in hospital whilst they worked out what was wrong with me and then I began treatment the same day of diagnosis. At first I felt worse, very sick and my partner had to get anti nausea tablets for me (which they then just gave me every cyclo), Then after about 4 days I felt so well it was incredible.

I went straight back to work and continued with treatment whilst working (although I only have a desk job, nothing strenuous). Every two weeks I would go to hospital for an IV cyclo which took 4 hours and then I'd go into work in the afternoon (plus 1-2 hospital visits a week to talk to the specialist). Also had about 13 pills a day to pop but the side effects were not too bad either. I hope it all goes well for your husband.

[Sangye]

I went straight back to work and continued with treatment whilst working (although I only have a desk job, nothing strenuous). Every two weeks I would go to hospital for an IV cyclo which took 4 hours and then I'd go into work in the afternoon (plus 1-2 hospital visits a week to talk to the specialist). Also had about 13 pills a day to pop but the side effects were not too bad either.
Other than taking a lot of meds, I cannot relate at all to this!

[Marcus]

Welcome to our elite club, I was diagnosed within a couple weeks of getting a clean bill of health. The first couple of weeks were the hardest I have ever had to deal with. I was a physically active person and to all my brothers and family I was indestructible. The first couple of weeks I used a wheelchair because I could only walk a few feet and feel like I had run several miles. The first couple of weeks chemo was very stuff, I would get sick but thank god it didn't last to long. I hope your husband has the same success I did.

[Al]

...Every two weeks I would go to hospital for an IV cyclo which took 4 hours and then I'd go into work in the afternoon.This blows my mind, I did often take work to the hospital, but all my CTX infusions took 12-16 hours: 4 or more for prehydration, no more than an hour for the chemo itself, and at least 8 hours for post hydration.

Al

[annekat]

Other than taking a lot of meds, I cannot relate at all to this! Me either! Even though I was only in the hospital overnight, I spent most of my time in bed at home for about a month and really couldn't do much of anything except sit at the computer, cook meals, and drag myself into town for docs appts. and necessary errands. After that, I started to be able to function a little better and work at my pottery, but it was still very limited. Now a year later, I'm pretty much able to do everything, but must really pace myself or I will crash. It's good to hear that some people are able to recover so quickly and return to work right away, but I'd be wary of overdoing it and stimulating a flare.

[NicShaf]

It's good to hear they may have caught it early. Everyone handles the medication and side effects differently. I have been able to work in my office full time since diagnosis.
What kind of work does your husband do?
It looks like others have mentioned it, but I think it is worth reiterating. WG is treatable, and many are able to achieve remission. I know it all seems very scary now, but it will get better. Keep us posted. Hope your husband starts feeling better soon.

[Psyborg]

Me either! Even though I was only in the hospital overnight, I spent most of my time in bed at home for about a month and really couldn't do much of anything except sit at the computer, cook meals, and drag myself into town for docs appts. and necessary errands. After that, I started to be able to function a little better and work at my pottery, but it was still very limited. Now a year later, I'm pretty much able to do everything, but must really pace myself or I will crash. It's good to hear that some people are able to recover so quickly and return to work right away, but I'd be wary of overdoing it and stimulating a flare.

Me three... :) I was absolutely destroyed for a while and it took me almost two years to feeling back to close to normal. Its weird how variable this disease ie.

[Sangye]

I'm nearly 6 years since dx and I'm not anywhere close to feeling normal. I had so many complications right out of the gate and non-stop for 4.5 years. And refractory Wegs to boot!

[pberggren1]

I am seeing more and more of refractory Wegs cases and it is scary to read about.

[annekat]

I'm nearly 6 years since dx and I'm not anywhere close to feeling normal. I had so many complications right out of the gate and non-stop for 4.5 years. And refractory Wegs to boot! It sure seems unfair that you've been hit with this for so long, Sangye, with no rhyme or reason. Especially considering the excellent care you're getting. But then, no one ever said Wegs was fair or that it cared about rhyme or reason. A big turnaround for you can't be impossible, and I hope it happens this year.:smile1:

[Dryhill]

This blows my mind, I did often take work to the hospital, but all my CTX infusions took 12-16 hours: 4 or more for prehydration, no more than an hour for the chemo itself, and at least 8 hours for post hydration.

Al

When I was on cyclophosamide I would have a standard "drip" hydration but the chemo was done as a very slow injection at the same time, the whole thing was over and done with in about an hour. I did find that I needed to sit and have a cup of coffee before I got up and left, and also to take things slowly for about five minutes. If the treatment was in the morning I would then go to work for about four hours (around six hours after treatrment I started to feel increasingly tired to the point I felt I was unsafe to drive).

Jim

[ShaniBooT]

Hi Ldoc,

My husband Dean never got sick. Then he started not feeling well. Coughing and bad ringing in his ears for about 3 years before. Thought he was taking after his Dad by losing his hearing, but it was very hard for him as the ringing was getting so bad. Then with in a week he lost most of his hearing. We had went to doctor after doctor about his ears and not one could tell us anything. Then all of a sudden he started coughing a lot and then he stated spiting up blood. His eyes were brothering him and his nose. He got a bad sinuses infection and his eyes hurt. He had endless headaches. Why I'm telling you about my husband Dean is we found out after he got real bad. Now he is feeling better after his last treatment.

He had to stop working as his job was in construction. His boss didn't want him to be on the job as he couldn't hear. It has been kind of hard on us, but he works outside a lot. We have 12 ac that he has to clean up after the big freeze and winds we had here. We lost 100 trees big and small. He is wondering what kind of a job he can do now, as he is a very good cabinet installer and finish carpenter. Now he has to change his job. He works outside until I make him come in. Sometimes 9 hours. He says it makes him feel better to work. I was feeling so bad to that I was going to lose my husband, now I feel good about his health and we just deal with it and it works out good and brought us closer together. So I believe your husband will be able to work. You and your husband are lucky you found out early. You are so right about this being the most frightening thing to face. It is.

Barbara and Dean

[Sangye]

It sure seems unfair that you've been hit with this for so long, Sangye, with no rhyme or reason. Especially considering the excellent care you're getting. But then, no one ever said Wegs was fair or that it cared about rhyme or reason. A big turnaround for you can't be impossible, and I hope it happens this year.:smile1:

Thanks Anne. In my belief system we don't think accept that things happen with no rhyme or reason. I don't want to expound on that because it would veer into religion, but suffice it to say that it brings me a a great deal of peace. :smile1:

[annekat]

Thanks Anne. In my belief system we don't think accept that things happen with no rhyme or reason. I don't want to expound on that because it would veer into religion, but suffice it to say that it brings me a a great deal of peace. :smile1: I'm glad to hear your belief system brings you the peace you need. "Rhyme or reason" is such a cliche', I wish I'd thought of another way to say it. I think some other belief systems think things happen for a reason, too, but that does get negatively distorted in some of them. Not to veer into religion. But maybe we could say things happen for no apparent reason, while acknowledging that we may not ever know the reasons. And the reasons may not be very specific but just part of the natural order of things. I guess I can accept that my Wegs happened for a reason, though I don't know what it is. Acceptance does bring peace, in many ways.

[Al]

I'm glad to hear your belief system brings you the peace you need. "Rhyme or reason" is such a cliche', I wish I'd thought of another way to say it. I think some other belief systems think things happen for a reason, too, but that does get negatively distorted in some of them. Not to veer into religion. But maybe we could say things happen for no apparent reason, while acknowledging that we may not ever know the reasons. And the reasons may not be very specific but just part of the natural order of things. I guess I can accept that my Wegs happened for a reason, though I don't know what it is. Acceptance does bring peace, in many ways.Hmmm....

This sounds like a discussion that I would love to get into. But I think any expansion would be hard without it sounding religious to someone. Maybe it is okay to observe that what is "rhyme and reason" on the one hand and inexplicable on the other is a matter of stance: The answer is different whether we, personally, are the center of the universe...or not.

Al

[annekat]

Hmmm....

This sounds like a discussion that I would love to get into. But I think any expansion would be hard without it sounding religious to someone. Maybe it is okay to observe that what is "rhyme and reason" on the one hand and inexplicable on the other is a matter of stance: The answer is different whether we, personally, are the center of the universe...or not.

Al It might be possible to discuss this without getting into any specific or implied religions. Keeping it more in the realm of philosophy. It does seem that people thinking they are the center of the universe is the root of a lot of problems and unhappiness. On the other hand, each of us sort of IS the center of the universe, from each individual perspective, if the universe is infinite. But being the center of the universe doesn't carry with it any special privileges or realistic expectations.

[MCC]

Other than taking a lot of meds, I cannot relate at all to this!

I'm so sorry you are still so ill Sangye, I wish very much it was easier for you.

I suspect however I am not the only one to have a good recovery (so far!!), sometimes forums can give an inbalance of illness, as those who are well tend to drift away with no need for the support anymore.

[Al]

I'm so sorry you are still so ill Sangye, I wish very much it was easier for you.

I suspect however I am not the only one to have a good recovery (so far!!), sometimes forums can give an inbalance of illness, as those who are well tend to drift away with no need for the support anymore.You are correct, to some extent, I think. The regular forum contributors are mostly sick people, though not so impossibly sick that they cannot think about writing--or the family of same. And then there are others, like me, who are sort of sick (but are generally showing few symptoms outwardly; I, for instance, still work most days, though mornings are really hard, and I wear out too quickly), and know they could be a whole lot sicker in a heartbeat, but nevertheless feel part of the larger family of Weggies. I will admit to mixed feelings: I am truly grateful that I am in pretty good shape for a Sick Old Man; yet my heart grieves for those who have it so much worse. I sincerely wish I could wipe away their tears. No, I mean that my highest wish is to make the whole issue go away--for all of us. At the same time, my "family" has grown. Thank you, everyone, for that.

Al

[pberggren1]

We're just one big family for sure.

[renidrag]

I know after being in remission I felt almost "bad" for getting better. I remember Jack telling me I should not feel that way and should remind people from time to time that remission can occur. That being said, I am still in remission however not at all possible to return to my profession. Master Plumber. From a blood clot in my leg I had a PE and an IVF filter in the vena cava, hence no heavy lifting. This along with COPD manual labor is not possible. I guess remission is a good thing but other problems can occur with this disease that could affect us long term. We all need to find our "new normal"
And by the way, with all the caring, advise and nagging I think Sangye is the center of the Weg Universe.
Dale

[pberggren1]

I concur Dale 110%.

[Sangye]

I'm so sorry you are still so ill Sangye, I wish very much it was easier for you.

I suspect however I am not the only one to have a good recovery (so far!!), sometimes forums can give an inbalance of illness, as those who are well tend to drift away with no need for the support anymore.
That is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes people come back and feel embarrassed by having left when they were feeling good. This forum is for everyone who needs it. I'm really happy when I see you guys doing well!

[Sangye]

I know after being in remission I felt almost "bad" for getting better. I remember Jack telling me I should not feel that way and should remind people from time to time that remission can occur. That being said, I am still in remission however not at all possible to return to my profession. Master Plumber. From a blood clot in my leg I had a PE and an IVF filter in the vena cava, hence no heavy lifting. This along with COPD manual labor is not possible. I guess remission is a good thing but other problems can occur with this disease that could affect us long term. We all need to find our "new normal"
And by the way, with all the caring, advise and nagging I think Sangye is the center of the Weg Universe.
Dale
LOL Aww, that is very kind Dale. I think it's fantastic that you're still in remission and I love it when you post about feeling well. I wish you could still work though. That part sucks.

[Al]

I know after being in remission I felt almost "bad" for getting better. I remember Jack telling me I should not feel that way and should remind people from time to time that remission can occur. That being said, I am still in remission however not at all possible to return to my profession. Master Plumber. From a blood clot in my leg I had a PE and an IVF filter in the vena cava, hence no heavy lifting. This along with COPD manual labor is not possible. I guess remission is a good thing but other problems can occur with this disease that could affect us long term. We all need to find our "new normal"
And by the way, with all the caring, advise and nagging I think Sangye is the center of the Weg Universe.
DaleYo, Bro: Sorry about the contractions to your professional life. That really sucks. But amen to all the rest of this!

Al

[Al]

LOL Aww, that is very kind Dale. I think it's fantastic that you're still in remission and I love it when you post about feeling well. I wish you could still work though. That part sucks.As with Dale: "Sorry about the contractions to your professional life. That really sucks" for you Sangye. I think it is one of the worst parts of many diseases: Coming to terms with a "new normal", at precisely the time that these contractions to on's universe wreak havoc with one's sense of identity. As I have noted elsewhere, few in the healing business seem to have any real understanding of this, or they believe it can be outsourced to someone else.

Al

[MCC]

That is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes people come back and feel embarrassed by having left when they were feeling good. This forum is for everyone who needs it. I'm really happy when I see you guys doing well!

Yes it is good to be able to ask advice from you all...and let's face it, this isnt something you get rid of...many people who seem well may well end back on medication in the future. I do still have a positive ANCA result, as I have had for the last 4-5 months since coming off medication, but it is not high enough to need to return to meds, yet.

Hugs to all you lovely people x

[me2]

I had remission for twenty years. I didn't even know what a blessing I had. This was before the internet and I had never met another person with wg until Al Gore invented the internet.

I know what you mean about docs not being interested in what it does to your life. I lost my ability to work at my former work and for twelve years now have been trying to reinvent myself to be able to produce something while sick most of the time.

In recent months I am doing better and faced with more time and energy but can't go back to any of the several professions I have had. I'm completely unreliable. That doesn't sound good on a resume'. Interesting times.

I feel for you who have also lost your work. Work was a central part of my life. In some ways I can see now that wasn't good but still I see that it was also very healthy and a true source of joy to me. I just want to be productive in some way.
So, I find smaller ways now. The plus side is I'm being forced to use my mind more , in ways I didn't before.

I'll share one way I have coped recently. Its an evolving thing , I've done lots of other things. Here is where I'm at. I find it embaressing for some reason. Its not as 'lofty' as what I used to do, but I feel some pride that I am doing what I can.

I love gardening. I went to college for agriculture. I recently bought a small 4 wheel drive tractor with a rototiller and I hope to find some work this spring doing tilling for people. I already had a truck and trailer to pull it around with.
Its committments of only a day or two at a time and I have total control as to what I take on or don't. It is seasonal work , but thats ok, my mind is already working on my next 'job'.

If anybody else wants to share what they have been able to do work wise to adapt to new normal , I'd love to hear about it. My productivity level is still very low but I'm ever the optimist.

[pberggren1]

Kirk, I had to laugh at you saying that Al Gore invented the internet.......lol.

[Al]

Great post, Kirk. And I also like that it confirms what I keep saying, that being useful is therapeutic necessity. I do not have a green thumb myself, but I love the idea of that activity.

Al

[pberggren1]

I'm sure I could do a desk job part time a few hours a day a couple days a week. But I know I could not even do that full time. So for me it is not much use to try and find work unless I know for fair certainty that I can work full time.

[pberggren1]

Great post, Kirk. And I also like that it confirms what I keep saying, that being useful is therapeutic necessity. I do not have a green thumb myself, but I love the idea of that activity.

Al

I agree as well. That is one of the main reasons I stay on the Forum here. I love to help people. And I love everyone here.

[Al]

I agree as well. That is one of the main reasons I stay on the Forum here. I love to help people. And I love everyone here. (Even though, like all family, we are not always so lovable? Oh you big lovable fool, Phil...!)

Al

[mishb]

I'm sure I could do a desk job part time a few hours a day a couple days a week. But I know I could not even do that full time. So for me it is not much use to try and find work unless I know for fair certainty that I can work full time.

I love that I had a desk job before becoming ill and therefore still do the same job......23 years in the same place.
My work colleagues (inlcuding my daughter) are super helpful throughout the day.

The travel is what is the killer for me - an hour and a half each way by car, train and foot - but my weekends are my recovery days and I am normally not out of bed much before lunchtimes on a Saturday and Sunday.


Kirk, you can come and do my gardening anyday :thumbsup:

[Al]

...The travel is what is the killer for me - an hour and a half each way by car, train and foot - but my weekends are my recovery days and I am normally not out of bed much before lunchtimes on a Saturday and Sunday.
Kirk, you can come and do my gardening anyday :thumbsup:
I am lucky, Michelle, that my normal "commute" is twenty paces from my breakfast table. Only once or twice a week do I have to drive to the gig.

Speaking of which, Kirk: Do you make house calls? (At least, unlike Michelle, I am in the same time zone!)

Al

[annekat]

I am lucky, Michelle, that my normal "commute" is twenty paces from my breakfast table. Only once or twice a week do I have to drive to the gig.

Speaking of which, Kirk: Do you make house calls? (At least, unlike Michelle, I am in the same time zone!)

Al Al, I am even much closer to Kirk than you are! I would guess within 10 or 15 miles. I'm already trying to think up ways to get him some tilling work or ideas for him to sell plants he grows. Since I sell at the Olympia Farmers Market, I have some connections in those areas. (Are you listening, Kirk?)

[Sangye]

Al, you and I have the same daily commute!

[me2]

Michelle , I am checking into shipping rates for my tractor from Seattle to Melbourne- I'll get back to you. (On a funny side note. I traveled with a group around China a few years ago and there several Aussies in the group. Wonderful people. But there was a problem. I had a harder time understanding their english than I did the english speaking Chinese people. Seriously. It was embaressing actually to be spoken to in 'plain English' and keep having to ask "I'm sorry, what did you say" . Then have it repeated and I still don't understand.)

Wow Anne, I was just at the Farmers market on Friday. That is so cool you sell there. Maybe you saw me, I was stuffing my face most of the time. I bought a rosemary plant and some onion starts too. Thanks for the generous offer. I know the market is hard to get into.
Does Susan Moser still sell there? She was the farm manager when I was going to Evergreen. You know everyone there right? How about Micheal Dolan? I avoided his area in case he was there so I wouldn't buy anything more.

What do you sell at the market? Pastries? Please tell me its pastries, my prednisone wants to hear this.

[Al]

Al, you and I have the same daily commute!Ah, but Sangye, my workplace has a darned fine view--though you will be catching up to me! (BTW, I should have been more precise: "Breakfast table" gives not quite the right idea, considering that I have too low an IQ to actually eat breakfast until on toward noon....)

Al

[Al]

...I had a harder time understanding their english than I did the english speaking Chinese people. Seriously. It was embaressing actually to be spoken to in 'plain English' and keep having to ask "I'm sorry, what did you say" . Then have it repeated and I still don't understand.)...What do you sell at the market? Pastries? Please tell me its pastries, my prednisone wants to hear this.Kirk--I think Anne sells pottery, in case your pred like glazed things. In any case, I like farmers' markets; a field trip seems in order.

Your story reminds me of the time I was on a business trip to England. Dinner was in the coastal town of Lewes (Jim will be familiar with it). The Swiss had me translate the Brits' English for them, as they couldn't figure it out....

Al

[Dryhill]

Ah, but Sangye, my workplace has a darned fine view--though you will be catching up to me! (BTW, I should have been more precise: "Breakfast table" gives not quite the right idea, considering that I have too low an IQ to actually eat breakfast until on toward noon....)

Al

Al, it is ok to have breakfast at noon if that is when you break your fast. On Sunday I broke my fast around 1:45pm, when my neighbour said dinner was ready ...... oh I do like it when I do not have to cook and wash up afterwards.

Jim

[annekat]

Wow Anne, I was just at the Farmers market on Friday. That is so cool you sell there. Maybe you saw me, I was stuffing my face most of the time. I bought a rosemary plant and some onion starts too. Thanks for the generous offer. I know the market is hard to get into.
Does Susan Moser still sell there? She was the farm manager when I was going to Evergreen. You know everyone there right? How about Micheal Dolan? I avoided his area in case he was there so I wouldn't buy anything more.

What do you sell at the market? Pastries? Please tell me its pastries, my prednisone wants to hear this.

Kirk, Al is correct that I sell pottery at the Market. I'd be thrilled if you'd stop by there some time, as you would be the first Weggie I have ever met, that I know of. I would not try to sell anything to you. Maybe you missed me because I am almost across from Michael Dolan and you were avoiding his area. Maybe I saw you, though! Susan Moser sounds familiar but I don't think she sells there. I can't offer you a lot of hope about getting to sell at the Market, but you never know, the connection could help, as I might hear of openings, etc. There is a program for "guest vendors" who can sell on Thurs. and Fri. to help fill up the empty stalls. I can find out if they are taking any new guest vendors or regular vendors next year and what the chances would be for a plant person. If you had something unusual that isn't already sold there in profusion, it would help. For example, there was a guy who specialized in magnolia trees who is no longer there, and there also used to be a guy who had all kinds of Japanese maples. So it seems to ME we could use such a specialist, since Dolan sells neither of those.

Anyway, I look forward to seeing you, and if Al showed up some time, it would also be really cool!

[mishb]

Michelle , I am checking into shipping rates for my tractor from Seattle to Melbourne- I'll get back to you. (On a funny side note. I traveled with a group around China a few years ago and there several Aussies in the group. Wonderful people. But there was a problem. I had a harder time understanding their english than I did the english speaking Chinese people. Seriously. It was embaressing actually to be spoken to in 'plain English' and keep having to ask "I'm sorry, what did you say" . Then have it repeated and I still don't understand.)


I hope the rates aren't too expensive Kirk because my yard, really could do with your help.

Onya mate....how can you not understand the Aussie language.........haven't you watched Crocodile Dundee???!! :crying:

[me2]

I hope the rates aren't too expensive Kirk because my yard, really could do with your help.

Onya mate....how can you not understand the Aussie language.........haven't you watched Crocodile Dundee???!! :crying:


Yeah, but I had to use sub-titles. What I needed was an Aussie school chum growing up but I didn't know any. You must have a nice country because you don't seem to leave it much to come live here. Aussies are rare in my neck of the woods.
Actually, visiting Australia has been on my bucket list since childhood, what with all the exotic wild life you have down there.

[me2]

Kirk, Al is correct that I sell pottery at the Market. I'd be thrilled if you'd stop by there some time, as you would be the first Weggie I have ever met, that I know of. I would not try to sell anything to you. Maybe you missed me because I am almost across from Michael Dolan and you were avoiding his area. Maybe I saw you, though! Susan Moser sounds familiar but I don't think she sells there. I can't offer you a lot of hope about getting to sell at the Market, but you never know, the connection could help, as I might hear of openings, etc. There is a program for "guest vendors" who can sell on Thurs. and Fri. to help fill up the empty stalls. I can find out if they are taking any new guest vendors or regular vendors next year and what the chances would be for a plant person. If you had something unusual that isn't already sold there in profusion, it would help. For example, there was a guy who specialized in magnolia trees who is no longer there, and there also used to be a guy who had all kinds of Japanese maples. So it seems to ME we could use such a specialist, since Dolan sells neither of those.

Anyway, I look forward to seeing you, and if Al showed up some time, it would also be really cool!

Six degrees of seperation is just too big a number sometimes huh? Two people with a rare disorder that happen to know the same guy. I know Susan used to sell there. I know she and Michael were good friends and I think kinda neighbors. I learned about Michael through her. She knows me but Michael doesn't. I've had some good talks with Michael though and purchased some of his fine goods.
I will definately stop by and we'll see if Al can make it. Al, if you haven't been to the Oly farmers market its really cool. Plenty of good food to munch on while taking in the sights and sounds. And of course you'd get to meet a couple of people with weeiiiiirrrrrrd disorder.

[annekat]

Six degrees of seperation is just too big a number sometimes huh? Two people with a rare disorder that happen to know the same guy. I know Susan used to sell there. I know she and Michael were good friends and I think kinda neighbors. I learned about Michael through her. She knows me but Michael doesn't. I've had some good talks with Michael though and purchased some of his fine goods.
I will definately stop by and we'll see if Al can make it. Al, if you haven't been to the Oly farmers market its really cool. Plenty of good food to munch on while taking in the sights and sounds. And of course you'd get to meet a couple of people with weeiiiiirrrrrrd disorder.Susan's name does sound so familiar that I'll ask Michael about her this week. I probably DO remember her, but I just don't remember! Seeing as I'm on pred. And Michael is quite the talker when you get him on trees, isn't he?

[me2]

Good morning local weggie,
Anne,
Yeah , Michael is a gem. Super knowlegable with many years of experience. I'll leave my wallet in the car and talk to him next time. No reflection on him as a pushy salesman or something, he just has lots of cool stuff and I'm sucker for new plants.
Susan for years had a business selling bags of greens through the co-op and elsewhere, well, including the market. She even produced a video about how to start your own greens business.
My pred brain is vaguely remembering asking Michael about her a year or two ago and maybe she went on to other things. Oh, well, you'll tell me when I see you maybe.
If I'm over at Michael's too long you can send for help.

[Al]

Six degrees of seperation is just too big a number sometimes huh? Two people with a rare disorder that happen to know the same guy. I know Susan used to sell there. I know she and Michael were good friends and I think kinda neighbors. I learned about Michael through her. She knows me but Michael doesn't. I've had some good talks with Michael though and purchased some of his fine goods.
I will definately stop by and we'll see if Al can make it. Al, if you haven't been to the Oly farmers market its really cool. Plenty of good food to munch on while taking in the sights and sounds. And of course you'd get to meet a couple of people with weeiiiiirrrrrrd disorder.In fact, a lot of people have some rare disorder, though chances of any two people having the same malady is very small. Then again, here we are....Don't be surprised if I show up some day. We have a fun farmers' market on Orcas. Not so many actual farmers, as there is not that much population on the island. But a lot of crafts folks and public service booths, and often a book sale. There is alos a bandstand where local groups perform. Kids and dogs are everywhere. People running for sheriff or fire commissioner give away buttons. In short, it is one large community gathering. There is almost no chance that you won't meet people you want to do business with. The island is mostly zoned "rural", so most homes sit on at least 5 acres. Thus, you don't ordinarily see your neighbors that often. So Saturdays are a chance to bring the community together. I personally find the experience quite therapeutic--even with all the consumables available!

Al

[skipper]

i was diagnosed this February with kidney, lung, sinus and goodness knows what else involvement. I was and continue to be scared but my energy level has improved. It is good to hear some positive stories. Medical people that I talk to all seem to be negative when they hear my diagnosis. Not my nephrologist...he is always positive but outweighed by all the other neggies about weggies. Perhaps there's a son in there lol. Anyway thanks for the uplift. I check the site out every day to keep my hopes up.

[Al]

i was diagnosed this February with kidney, lung, sinus and goodness knows what else involvement. I was and continue to be scared but my energy level has improved. It is good to hear some positive stories. Medical people that I talk to all seem to be negative when they hear my diagnosis. Not my nephrologist...he is always positive but outweighed by all the other neggies about weggies. Perhaps there's a son in there lol. Anyway thanks for the uplift. I check the site out every day to keep my hopes up.We do tend toward black humor, I'm afraid. But this is all in the service of hope, Skipper. Of course we will offer that, but you have to put up with the twisted funny stuff....

Al

[Dirty Don]

We do tend toward black humor, I'm afraid. But this is all in the service of hope, Skipper. Of course we will offer that, but you have to put up with the twisted funny stuff....Al

And the docs aren't much different in their own studious ways (and being exposed to the ALL of us ALL of the time). For example, my pulmy upon first meeting, looking at my lung Xrays, offhandedly chuckled, and said: "Mr. Wilson, most people with these kinds of pictures aren't living to tell me about how they feel"...sheesh! Then, next, meeting the rheumy, she simply pointed out that I didn't just dodge a bullet, I dodged a grenade...and chuckled...I can't even remember how I responded to that one! Yes, black and absurd humor does come from all this...sometimes I wonder if those who haven't made it are laughing...then again, no one's come back to tell us...LOL...ducks as Phil throws 7000 year old rocks my way...

[skipper]

The truth is I am a humour freelance writer - at least I was and I do find humour in most everything. Sometimes the doctor doesn't get it and sees it as sarcasm but it doesn't deter me. I can't miss an opening lol. Yes humour is the saving grace for me but I also know that the flip side of humour is sadness. I have looked at the lives of many comedians and they admit to having had long and difficult times with depression but the humour does come out. I will look for it here as well. Skipper in Canada. Dodging a genade is a good thing. The doctor said my lungs look like mosaic glass. Hmmm I am more attractive on the inside I'm thinking. LOl Skipper in Canada

[Lightwarrior]

We do tend toward black humor, I'm afraid. But this is all in the service of hope, Skipper. Of course we will offer that, but you have to put up with the twisted funny stuff....

Al

I have noticed that more than a few of us have this sense of humor. Hmmmmmmm very interesting.

[Lightwarrior]

Skipper,
A humor free lance writer huh? Very cool. We must laugh, it is good for us and releases endorphins, and the truth is that there is beauty and humor in almost everything. Your doctor said your lungs looked like mosaic glass, how beautiful!! Mine told me mine looked like ground glass, not nearly as poetic as yours (LOL) Sounds like we could open up a glass shop

[pberggren1]

And the docs aren't much different in their own studious ways (and being exposed to the ALL of us ALL of the time). For example, my pulmy upon first meeting, looking at my lung Xrays, offhandedly chuckled, and said: "Mr. Wilson, most people with these kinds of pictures aren't living to tell me about how they feel"...sheesh! Then, next, meeting the rheumy, she simply pointed out that I didn't just dodge a bullet, I dodged a grenade...and chuckled...I can't even remember how I responded to that one! Yes, black and absurd humor does come from all this...sometimes I wonder if those who haven't made it are laughing...then again, no one's come back to tell us...LOL...ducks as Phil throws 7000 year old rocks my way...

Actually the rocks are 7211 years old. And many have come back to tell us.

[Dryhill]

And the docs aren't much different in their own studious ways (and being exposed to the ALL of us ALL of the time). For example, my pulmy upon first meeting, looking at my lung Xrays, offhandedly chuckled, and said: "Mr. Wilson, most people with these kinds of pictures aren't living to tell me about how they feel"...sheesh! Then, next, meeting the rheumy, she simply pointed out that I didn't just dodge a bullet, I dodged a grenade...and chuckled...I can't even remember how I responded to that one! Yes, black and absurd humor does come from all this...sometimes I wonder if those who haven't made it are laughing...then again, no one's come back to tell us...LOL...ducks as Phil throws 7000 year old rocks my way...

I saw my GP the other week, and when I walked into her room she aked how I was, before I could reply she said "well your standing so that is something".

Jim

[Al]

The truth is I am a humour freelance writer - at least I was and I do find humour in most everything. Sometimes the doctor doesn't get it and sees it as sarcasm but it doesn't deter me. I can't miss an opening lol. Yes humour is the saving grace for me but I also know that the flip side of humour is sadness. I have looked at the lives of many comedians and they admit to having had long and difficult times with depression but the humour does come out. I will look for it here as well. Skipper in Canada. Dodging a genade is a good thing. The doctor said my lungs look like mosaic glass. Hmmm I am more attractive on the inside I'm thinking. LOl Skipper in CanadaSome ring of truth in this, Skipper. Humor often is a mask for inner pain, I think. Laugh, clown, laugh and all that: two sides of the same coin. But, for Weggies, the pain is not only "inner", but quite manifest. So the funny stuff can get pretty overt as well. Overt, and therapeutic. This is a risible disease, after all. Who but some demented demon could have envisioned it? So, it really is a help to chuckle, chortle, titter, and guffaw. Right up your professional alley, I think....

Al