Hi all -- I've been in/out of a number of forums and Facebook pages and continue to enjoy the commonalities and information we all share. I've ducked away a few times, but the last time was focusing on family and relocating back to Virginia. Today I was reading some of our older posts (back in 2012 & 2013) and realized just how much I've grown in this disease thanks to folks like you. Accepting WG for what is is in my life and being grateful for each new day. I finally did receive my Virginia Retirement System medical disability -- almost a year after receiving SSDI. I had to hire a lawyer and go through numerous denials, but in the end I had the support of an independent fact-finding lawyer hired by the VRS. I still feel the pangs of regret to have had to "quit" the educational community I dearly love. I've relocated back to Rockbridge County, VA where I raised my sons and lived for 13 years. It is truly my home. And we moved because my husband loved visiting here! We bought a 6-acre horse farm, remodeled the house, added onto the barn, landscaped, and are currently redesigning the 3-season porch along the back of the house. Granted, my husband has done most of the work, but I've settled into being a housewife and am really started to enjoy the quiet life. As long as I'm up to it, we also have traveled some. Most recently to the Canadian side of Niagra Falls! My kidney function is holding steady and I haven't had any WG flares. It's been over a year since my last hospitalization (cellulitis of the eye) and only had minor knee surgery to remove a medial meniscus. My lung capacity has diminished some, so I'll be seeing a pulmonary specialist soon. The chronic conditions we all face are still existent, but I'm learning to work around/tolerate them much better! Life is GOOD!!