Help desperately needed for one of our own!

[LookingAround]

Lexi,

My heart goes out to you. I'll keep you in my prayers. I don't know how much this helps, but I watched a medical program that featured a young lady who seemingly had nothing wrong with her. In her early twenties she started to gain weight rapidly, she had hair growth in places she hadn't had before, and she developed a hump on the base of her neck. She went to doctors who dismissed her problems as an uncontrollable appetite, and for about a year and a half no doctor would look past her weight. She finally did some internet research and came across a site that detailed her symptoms exactly, and she learned that it was Cushing Disease. She talked her doctor into administering tests for Cushings, and sure enough she had it. They treated her and she lost weight, she lost the hump, and her hair growth receded. I mentioned this to encourage you or a loved one who assists you to scour the internet for your symptons.

Encouragement.

[SamanthaNY]

The symptons aren't the issue here. Did you read any of these posts?

[BBWMoon]

Lexi,

Since I read Fuchsia's initial Post, this afternoon, I've been thinking about you all day. At first, I was appalled. I was beside myself how poorly you've been treated right down to them breaking your foot with the oxygen canister.
Where is the professional care? It was as if you were careened around a circle of blind Doctors who weren't willing to open their eyes. It's really unbelievable how you were NOT TAKEN CARE OF. I found myself quite sad.

Now, hours later, I'm angry.

I'm angry at those Blind eyes, but I'm seething at the Blind IGNORANCE.

There's noticeable despair in your story, the end of the road kind, and if anything, IT IS UTMOST IMPORTANT that you do not lose HOPE in this situation. Don't let the bastards win, Lexi. Don't tolerate ignorance.

I'm thinking of you...

and trying to figure out if there's anything I can do...

~Allie

[Lexi]

Originally Posted by BBWMoon

Lexi,

Since I read Fuchsia's initial Post, this afternoon, I've been thinking about you all day. At first, I was appalled. I was beside myself how poorly you've been treated right down to them breaking your foot with the oxygen canister.
Where is the professional care? It was as if you were careened around a circle of blind Doctors who weren't willing to open their eyes. It's really unbelievable how you were NOT TAKEN CARE OF. I found myself quite sad.

Now, hours later, I'm angry.

I'm angry at those Blind eyes, but I'm seething at the Blind IGNORANCE.

There's noticeable despair in your story, the end of the road kind, and if anything, IT IS UTMOST IMPORTANT that you do not lose HOPE in this situation. Don't let the bastards win, Lexi. Don't tolerate ignorance.

I'm thinking of you...

and trying to figure out if there's anything I can do...

~Allie

I have had so many emotions lately about everything that has happened to me. What I listed on the forum here is not even a 10th of what has actually occurred. It is demeaning, humiliating, annoying , dehumanizing, ignorant , outrageous, depressing , and a whole basket of other adjectives. As I sit in my cell each day I think about the loss of seeing my children and grandkids, integrating with society and yes actually having the privilege to do simple things like shower and go to a bathroom when you want to. Standing up when I want to, eat when I wish to, walk out a front door and see the light. These things most people do without thinking are a planned activity for me. Someone else’s plan not my own..

Each day I try to get up and make every moment of the day count towards getting out of this hole. I am in.I keep getting knocked down. My husband is so very burnt out. We have been fighting now for 3 years through all of this medical BS. Yes I am at the end of my rope. I feel like I am approaching the end of my life.Yet I still hasve that voice inside this fat lady that says “NO you haven’t sung yet”. Everyone knows it is not over until the fat lady sings.

Lexi

[SamanthaNY]

I'm torn here, Lexi. I've struggled with whether to post any of these concerns since I don't want to take away from your plea for help. I sympathize with your plight, and have tried to offer some resources for you. I'm disgusted that the medical community seems to have abandoned you so thoroughly - but that's also confusing for me; your claims describe offenses so egregious (and illegal), and I personally have never experienced anything close to that (having encountered my share of size-prejudiced professionals). I don't doubt the veracity of your claims - however, I have to express my confusion over how you got to where you are today. Wasn't there any way to sound the alarm bells earlier? I'm assuming that your health has declined over a number of years, with a series of events all accumulating to this point where you need aggressive help. But why weren't concerns raised 2 years ago, or 200 pounds ago, when you might have had more options available? I imagine at some past point, you would have had much more control over your own situation, and not at the mercy of the health community, who now receive all the blame.

I suppose I'm asking this not just for myself, but for anyone else who posted on and/or read that 'fear of gaining' thread. I hope when/if I see changes in my own abilities that I will be able to recognize them and act appropriately - but perhaps it's not that easy. I'm hoping that some disclosure from you can help shed some light on that for all of us.

[Rainahblue]

Originally Posted by Lexi

yes actually I contacted them while I was still in the hospital. I also filled quite a few HIPAA allegations against them for things that happened. One evening the charge nurse started screaming in the halls I dont care what it takes call home depot rent a forklift for her to ride down the street to go home.I just want her out of my hospital tonight. The hospital had wanted me to leave from the moment I got there.Since they did not have any proper medical equipment to take care of a Super Supersize patient they were at a loss as to how to care for me.In their ultimate wisdom they felt it was better to not listen to the patient who knows their own body and follow their medical care plan that was designed for a 200 lb person which is their idea of fat.

My husband would go to the cafeteria at the hospital and in the line to pay people would be talking about me. He was even told about the fattest person they'd seen was on the 3rd floor.People kept walking by my room and staring.

They did not respect my right to privacy at all.My medical records laid on a table outside my door and ciar my husband a few times caught laundry workers and non medical people grazing through them like it was a magazine gawking.

Un beknownst to them we took many pictures of this ordeal

Lexi

That is very insightful of you and your hubby, Lexi. Document everything, start a journal centered around your experiences with these insensitive, unprofessional people, photos, video... I've found from previous experiences that sometimes having extensive documentation can make all the difference.

I'm keeping you in my thoughts, and please let me know if there's anything I can do from where I am: writing letters, signing a petition, anything that might help you get the care you need and deserve.

[Brenda]

Samantha.

While I am not Lexi I think I have some insight on how a situation gets to this point. Once your body gets to the point where you are having difficulty walking and doing daily activities it is a herceulean effort to turn things around. Since you are now getting nearly no exercise it takes very little food to sustain your weight and only a bit more to cause additional gain. Depression, isolation and sheer boredom make it very easy to turn to food for a pick me up because your life has become so small there seems like there is little else available to you.

I think the warning bells go off when we are 300 lbs or 400 lbs or whatever and for whatever reasons we choose not to deal with the situation. We see ourselves as big but fairly healthy so we think we will be fine. Or we have a sa spouse or partner who is happy to do the things for us we can no longer do for ourselves. But one semi serious injury or illness could put us into a spiral of weight gain and immobility that could put any of us in Lexis situation.

I know this because I watched my sister go through this. She felt she was betraying Size Acceptance and was so afraid of dying from surgery that she would not consider it when her weight was beyond what she could manage and have any sort of a life. All along she bought the lie that you should eat what you want and your body would reach set point. Ironically if she had had WLS she might be alive today.

Brenda

[TallFatSue]

My warning bells sound when I'm much above 450lb. I've been as heavy as 465lb and began to fell some effects on my mobility and general well-being which kinda scared me. I felt clumsier and a little out-of-sorts. After I brought myself back down to 450lb (my 6ft height sure helps) everything seemed fine again. All things being equal I'd probably be better off if I lost 200lb, but I'd need to starve myself the rest of my days, and that's no life for me. So, careful obesity management seems the way to go. I have regular checkups and so far my doctor gives me a clean bill of health.

I can sure sympathize about falling too. One night I slipped on a bathroom rug and bonked my head on the counter as I went down. It's not easy to haul up a woman my size lying on the floor in a heap in a corner, half-asleep and seeing stars. Luckily Art woke up when he heard me crash, and we both carefully gave me the old heave-ho. Luckily too my pratfall injured my dignity much more than my body.

So in terms of health, well-being and just plain logistics, 450lb is my imaginary line in the sand.

[Aliena]

Originally Posted by Brenda

Samantha.

While I am not Lexi I think I have some insight on how a situation gets to this point. Once your body gets to the point where you are having difficulty walking and doing daily activities it is a herceulean effort to turn things around. Since you are now getting nearly no exercise it takes very little food to sustain your weight and only a bit more to cause additional gain. Depression, isolation and sheer boredom make it very easy to turn to food for a pick me up because your life has become so small there seems like there is little else available to you.

I think the warning bells go off when we are 300 lbs or 400 lbs or whatever and for whatever reasons we choose not to deal with the situation. We see ourselves as big but fairly healthy so we think we will be fine. Or we have a sa spouse or partner who is happy to do the things for us we can no longer do for ourselves. But one semi serious injury or illness could put us into a spiral of weight gain and immobility that could put any of us in Lexis situation.

I know this because I watched my sister go through this. She felt she was betraying Size Acceptance and was so afraid of dying from surgery that she would not consider it when her weight was beyond what she could manage and have any sort of a life. All along she bought the lie that you should eat what you want and your body would reach set point. Ironically if she had had WLS she might be alive today.

Brenda

Excellent post Brenda. I am really sorry for the loss of your sister; I realize how much you love her and how much she meant to you.

I am on the precipice of Lexi's life right now. I am homebodied myself for the most part, but able to get out as needed. I have a husband that will do anything for me, even when I am struggling to do it myself. If the pain is kicking in, it's easier to give in and let the man do it for me. It doesn't mean I didn't care or don't care about my situation, it simply means I hurt and I just don't have the strength.

Samantha, right now isn't about the why did you do this and not do that. It's about a lovely lady that has the RIGHT to medical care and by golly should be getting it regardless her size.
This is where size acceptance civil rights would be best to come into play right now.

Lexi, I am really sorry that you are going through this. I can imagine ( as I have for myself) just how isolated you are feeling right now and the exasperation that comes along with it when the will is ready, but the body refuses.

Donnalicious is sooooo write; contact an attorney. I can not believe that wench of a nurse had the audacity to yell like that in the hallway. I guess I am a little mouthy, because that bitch would have gotten a tongue lashing from me.

FWIW--my husband works at a top 100 credited hospitals. They are very protective of the HIPPA oath and rights. If a patient were to find out his records were violated by someone other than his health care professionals, they'd be automatically terminated.
Has your husband printed up some of these pictures and sent them to the administrators of this hospital.

And another thing,--I am under the impression that a Dr. can not drop a patient unless he gives them 30 days to find another physician. Your Dr. is still responsible for you Lexi. If I were you, I'd remind her of that and the repercussions that can result from malpractice, especially when you're keeping a journal of all the calls missed and the hands off way she is treating you.

Boy, oh boy--get yourself a lawyer honey.

I wish I was in Florida. I'd love to come meet you and see if there were something we could do together.

And praise GOD and the Lord Jesus Christ that you have a wonderful husband who loves you and does help you in your time of need.

I am saying prayers for you Lexi--if you'd like to talk or just vent, please PM me and we can pass email information.

Take care--
Dee

[Donna]

In Samantha's defense, I think her post and her questions have merit. Yes, there is a lot about size acceptance and better health care rights at play here. And resources to fix those issues have been given. Samantha was probably extrapolating Lexi's story and going the next step, though, as many of us did I am sure. I found myself reading the saga of what happened and applying it to my own struggle with weight and my own fears of becoming immobile. I believe THAT is the core of the issue Sam was trying to get at, NOT to chastise Lexi.

Maybe I am reading more into Sam's post than I should and I have NO right to speak for her. I just know her question seemed valid to me and not in the least bit disrespectful.

[CurvyEm]

I'm just watching the jerry spinger show where he 'saved' an obese couple. The man is over 700lbs and immobile. They're flying him to a clinic in lauderdale, florida that specialises in people his size. He didn't say the name of the place but I'll watch it all to see if I can get the name. This show is from '97 so I don't even know if this place still exists but it's worth checking out.

[GPL]

I'm so sorry to hear this all, Lexi
My thoughts are with you, hun!

I think it's unbelieveable how the treat you. How on earth can people do this

Superduper tight hugs, GPL.

[Angel]

I am appalled by the insensible and callous stupidity expressed by those who supposedly are educated and otherwise are fairly intelligent. It never ceases to amaze me how that fellow humans feign ignorance while trying to disguise their arrogance and cruelty.

Yes, the medical profession has failed Lexi. Individuals can use every excuse they can think of, but it is no excuse for their personal lack of compassion. Sadly in our society, the supersized and ultrasized are blamed rather than being treated with respect or with dignity. Though we are visible for all to see, some choose to see us as invisible and nonexistant. Though we speak and express our concerns, some choose to not hear us or choose to not even listen. Some individuals find it easier to turn away or continue blaming the obese patient rather than offering assistance or guidence.

Lexi, you need to somehow look within yourself and find the strength and determination to fight with all of your might. As long as there is breath, there is hope. No matter what anyone says, do not give up. You fight for what you need. Don't be afraid to tell others what you need. Don't be afraid to demand whatever it is that you feel will help your health improve. Don't let the inconsiderate excuses for human beings silence you or destroy your will to live. You can fight your way back to a better existance and to improved health. It may not be easy, and it may not happen over night, but it is possible. While searching for medical help, try to begin to make positive differences in your life. Take each day as it comes. Try to chose healthier foods. Try to move, even if it is while in bed. Move your arms, hands, wrists, ankles, feet, etc. Talk to your doctor or home health nurse about the possibility of physical therapy. Ask if there is a therapist who can come to your home. Even if medical coverage will only cover one home visit, the therapist can show and give you a simple routine that will help to improve your strength and muscle tone. It is a slow and sometimes painful process, but it is doable. Sometimes you may have to look at it as it's me against the world and realize that you are the only person who can make yourself better. When you find that determination, you'll find the strength to fight your way back. It can be done. I know it can. Whether or not you find the medical assistance you need today or tomorrow, you can begin your own road to recovery right this very minute. Give yourself that chance. You deserve it.

[Lexi]

Originally Posted by CurvyEm

I'm just watching the jerry spinger show where he 'saved' an obese couple. The man is over 700lbs and immobile. They're flying him to a clinic in lauderdale, florida that specialises in people his size. He didn't say the name of the place but I'll watch it all to see if I can get the name. This show is from '97 so I don't even know if this place still exists but it's worth checking out.

Hi Em

Yes, there used to be a facility in the Lauderdale area back in the 90's. That closed down in 99. I did years ago go to one up in Durham NC. It is called Structure house. There is also the rice house there. However, both of those said they do not have the capabilities to handle a person with my immobility.

Lexi

[Lexi]

Originally Posted by Angel

I am appalled by the insensible and callous stupidity expressed by those who supposedly are educated and otherwise are fairly intelligent. It never ceases to amaze me how that fellow humans feign ignorance while trying to disguise their arrogance and cruelty.

Yes, the medical profession has failed Lexi. Individuals can use every excuse they can think of, but it is no excuse for their personal lack of compassion. Sadly in our society, the supersized and ultrasized are blamed rather than being treated with respect or with dignity. Though we are visible for all to see, some choose to see us as invisible and nonexistant. Though we speak and express our concerns, some choose to not hear us or choose to not even listen. Some individuals find it easier to turn away or continue blaming the obese patient rather than offering assistance or guidence.

Lexi, you need to somehow look within yourself and find the strength and determination to fight with all of your might. As long as there is breath, there is hope. No matter what anyone says, do not give up. You fight for what you need. Don't be afraid to tell others what you need. Don't be afraid to demand whatever it is that you feel will help your health improve. Don't let the inconsiderate excuses for human beings silence you or destroy your will to live. You can fight your way back to a better existance and to improved health. It may not be easy, and it may not happen over night, but it is possible. While searching for medical help, try to begin to make positive differences in your life. Take each day as it comes. Try to chose healthier foods. Try to move, even if it is while in bed. Move your arms, hands, wrists, ankles, feet, etc. Talk to your doctor or home health nurse about the possibility of physical therapy. Ask if there is a therapist who can come to your home. Even if medical coverage will only cover one home visit, the therapist can show and give you a simple routine that will help to improve your strength and muscle tone. It is a slow and sometimes painful process, but it is doable. Sometimes you may have to look at it as it's me against the world and realize that you are the only person who can make yourself better. When you find that determination, you'll find the strength to fight your way back. It can be done. I know it can. Whether or not you find the medical assistance you need today or tomorrow, you can begin your own road to recovery right this very minute. Give yourself that chance. You deserve it.

Angel,

You had some very good suggesstions in your message. I agree with you . Where there is still breath there is hope. I am going to put that up on my wall.

I do have a pgysical therapist that is going to come 5 times. I was able to get the hospitals risk managment program to pay for the visits since medicaid denied it. I figured since they contributed to my shoulder pain they can help try to fix it.I have been trying to get my Dr to give me a cortisone shot for 8 weeks now. The Physical therapist did give me the rubber bands to use to work out with but with the shoulder pain and arm pain I have she said she would not recommend doing it until I got a shot. We even attempted to use ETPS therapy on it but it did not h elp. Nurmerous calls by both the physical therapist and occupational therapist to the Doctor did not help me obtain the cortisone.In the past I usually needed it once to twice a year as I have a rotor cuff problem and neurological damage in my left arm. The only way I have been able to get up from the bed is by two people blocking me legs from sliding and me falling and using a hand to lift me up while I hold a rope thats anchored into a stud in the ceiling. Frankly that is what keeps damaging my shoulders more but its the only way to get me up the one time a day.

On a positive note I have more movement in my legs then I had before . I have been working those muscles.


I do speak up and so does Ciar when he feels I am in danger. Its so hard to spend all day and night fighting.Its extremely stressful.I am currently doing medifast to try and lower my weight as fast as I can to try to regain my mobility.I need my doctor to cooperate so I can get the medical tests that I need done and the corrected medication that I need.I will keep fighting though.

Lexi

[crazygrad]

I haven't read the whole thread (really busy these days) but have you looked into programs at Duke University? THey have many different obesity related programs. I think they are structured around weight loss, but perhaps one of them would suit your needs and get you some medical attention while taking off some weight to help you get back your health and mobility.
Best to you.

[fatgirlflyin]

that I'm gonna sound like a cold hearted bitch here, but I've just got to say this anyway.

Several times I've seen you mention excersizes or activities that you should be doing but you just dont because it hurts too much. Of course it hurts, but you have to move anyway. You are in a position where you've got take your health seriously, more seriously than you did when you allowed yourself to gain to 700 pounds.

I dont know what its like to live life at your weight, I do know what its like to live life at mine of just over 300 pounds. When I decide to go for a jog does it hurt? Damn skippy it does, all this fat bouncing around hurts but I'd deal with the hurt of bouncing fat any day over the reality of immobility.

I'm not trying to be mean here, the doctors and hospital had no right to treat you the way they did. I just dont want to see you become more of a victim, not only of the way you were treated but the way you dont treat yourself. You can't be passive in a time like this, if it takes 2 people to get you out of bed then get those 2 people to help you get out of bed as much as you can stand it. Those rubber bands hurt? Then do something else with your arms, use a can of veggies and pump weights with it. Just move, you've gotta move otherwise that bed is gonna be your deathbed.

Lexi, I dont know you personally nor have I ever chatted with you on the boards but I hope that things all work out for you. I hope that you are able to find adequate health care and I also hope that you decide to aggresively pursue your own good health.

[Sandie_Zitkus]

Now I'm gonna sound like a bitch - but what does it matter HOW she got to the present weight????? I think Lexi is dealing with enough from the outside world right now and needs only support from us. About 6 years ago I got sick with gout. From there is was a downward spiral where my health was concerned. And I gained weight rapidly - due to immobility. I was close to 500 lbs and close to immobility before I knew it. It was terrifying. The depression I was in also stopped me form seeing the excess weight I was gaining. And I still have a way to go to getting all my mobility back - but the last thing I needed or need now is people paying Sunday morning quarterback telling me what I *SHOULD* be doing. It's cruel and demoralizing.

Lexi I wish there was something more I could do to help you. Take the good stuff from here and leave the rest of it behind. There are a lot of good people here who know what you are going through and wish you well.

[fatgirlflyin]

It doesn't matter, I also didn't ask because its none of my business.

Lexi absoultely needs support but support comes in more forms than hand holding and commiserating. I can be just as supportive saying I feel for you and I'm sorry for the pain you are going through but please be strong and if no one will help you then help yourself.

My grandfather was a very obese man, with major mobility issues. He chose to give up because it was just too hard rather than fight and regain his health.

If you felt that my post was Monday morning quarterbacking then that's fine, you are entitled to your opinion but hindsight is 20/20.

[Angel]

Originally Posted by Lexi

I have been trying to get my Dr to give me a cortisone shot for 8 weeks now. The Physical therapist did give me the rubber bands to use to work out with but with the shoulder pain and arm pain I have she said she would not recommend doing it until I got a shot. We even attempted to use ETPS therapy on it but it did not h elp. Nurmerous calls by both the physical therapist and occupational therapist to the Doctor did not help me obtain the cortisone.In the past I usually needed it once to twice a year as I have a rotor cuff problem and neurological damage in my left arm. The only way I have been able to get up from the bed is by two people blocking me legs from sliding and me falling and using a hand to lift me up while I hold a rope thats anchored into a stud in the ceiling. Frankly that is what keeps damaging my shoulders more but its the only way to get me up the one time a day.

Lexi,
The doctor may not want you to have the cortisone shot for a reason. I can only speak from my experience. I was told that the shots are not a good idea if a patient has fluid retention issues. The shots can cause additional fluid retention in the extremities (arms and/or legs). Sometimes the doctor has to make choices based upon what worse consequences may arise. Though it's not pleasant, we can live with pain. Fluid retention can be extremely detrimental. It can lead to difficulty in breathing or worse, to loss of life. Perhaps ask if instead a mild pain reliever could be prescribed for the time being.

When they tried the ETPS therapy, was it near or on the shoulder joint? It didn't bring any relief, even temporarily? I ask because you mentioned that you are basically using your arm strength when trying to get up. If the electrodes were placed near the injured joints, and you still had pain in your arms, you may have additionally injured the bursa in your upper arms. That can happen when a person tries to lift more weight than what their muscles are capable of lifting. With a supersize person, it can happen when basically only using the arms to pull the body up into a standing position or when trying to pull the body's weight up steps or stairs. When the bursa become inflamed, or if they burst, there is a constant pain between the shoulder and just above the elbow, where your upper arm muscles are located. It can be extremely painful until the bursa heal. Bursitis can take up to four months to heal. If the doctor can't (or won't) visit to better access your pain, possibly explain to the physical therapist exactly where the pain is, and what type of pain it is, and how often it lasts, and if movement makes it worse.

I can honestly tell you, that most professionals in the medical field just don't have the experience of dealing with people of our size. Because they haven't treated many super and ultra sized patients, they don't always know what the right treatment is. Even with most medications, trials and dosages are only standard for those weighing up to 220 pounds.

[Michaela]

1. Nobody deserves to be treated the way you were treated and I really hope you'll feel better in the near future.

but

2. Didn't you see that coming ? You didn't gain to over 700 lbs over night, right ?

I know it' s none of my business but this is an open message board, so...

3. Doesn't anybody know someone with power (politician, celebrity...) who can help her ?

[Lexi]

Originally Posted by Angel

Lexi,
The doctor may not want you to have the cortisone shot for a reason. I can only speak from my experience. I was told that the shots are not a good idea if a patient has fluid retention issues. The shots can cause additional fluid retention in the extremities (arms and/or legs). Sometimes the doctor has to make choices based upon what worse consequences may arise. Though it's not pleasant, we can live with pain. Fluid retention can be extremely detrimental. It can lead to difficulty in breathing or worse, to loss of life. Perhaps ask if instead a mild pain reliever could be prescribed for the time being.

When they tried the ETPS therapy, was it near or on the shoulder joint? It didn't bring any relief, even temporarily? I ask because you mentioned that you are basically using your arm strength when trying to get up. If the electrodes were placed near the injured joints, and you still had pain in your arms, you may have additionally injured the bursa in your upper arms. That can happen when a person tries to lift more weight than what their muscles are capable of lifting. With a supersize person, it can happen when basically only using the arms to pull the body up into a standing position or when trying to pull the body's weight up steps or stairs. When the bursa become inflamed, or if they burst, there is a constant pain between the shoulder and just above the elbow, where your upper arm muscles are located. It can be extremely painful until the bursa heal. Bursitis can take up to four months to heal. If the doctor can't (or won't) visit to better access your pain, possibly explain to the physical therapist exactly where the pain is, and what type of pain it is, and how often it lasts, and if movement makes it worse.

I can honestly tell you, that most professionals in the medical field just don't have the experience of dealing with people of our size. Because they haven't treated many super and ultra sized patients, they don't always know what the right treatment is. Even with most medications, trials and dosages are only standard for those weighing up to 220 pounds.

YES!!!! Thank you. That's exactly where it is injured and exactly how it was injured. I was trying to explain it to the PT and the OT but they were not understanding it. Now I have the words I need. This is great. Networking with others helps so much. Thank you for your information.

Yes, about the cortisone I am aware of that side effect and the others. I had discussed that with her a few shots ago. She agreed that it was a better way to go since i am dependent on my arms t get in and out of bed.
She and I both know that pain pills are not the option in my case. They put me under too deep and cause me breathing difficulties. I have been using motrin and arthritis strengtyh tylenol. She told me to use hydrocodone for the pain but a week ago but I did try one and it still causes me breathing difficulties.I asked for a milder one and so far have not gotten anything prescribed. So I'm not holding my breath.Mostly I am using meditation for pain relief.

Lexi

[Angel]

Originally Posted by Ella Bella

that I'm gonna sound like a cold hearted bitch here, but I've just got to say this anyway.

Several times I've seen you mention excersizes or activities that you should be doing but you just dont because it hurts too much. Of course it hurts, but you have to move anyway. You are in a position where you've got take your health seriously, more seriously than you did when you allowed yourself to gain to 700 pounds.

I dont know what its like to live life at your weight, I do know what its like to live life at mine of just over 300 pounds. When I decide to go for a jog does it hurt? Damn skippy it does, all this fat bouncing around hurts but I'd deal with the hurt of bouncing fat any day over the reality of immobility.

I'm not trying to be mean here, the doctors and hospital had no right to treat you the way they did. I just dont want to see you become more of a victim, not only of the way you were treated but the way you dont treat yourself. You can't be passive in a time like this, if it takes 2 people to get you out of bed then get those 2 people to help you get out of bed as much as you can stand it. Those rubber bands hurt? Then do something else with your arms, use a can of veggies and pump weights with it. Just move, you've gotta move otherwise that bed is gonna be your deathbed.

Lexi, I dont know you personally nor have I ever chatted with you on the boards but I hope that things all work out for you. I hope that you are able to find adequate health care and I also hope that you decide to aggresively pursue your own good health.

I'd like to mention something here. The pain that a young and healthy 300 pound mobile person experiences while or after jogging is not the same type of pain that a person with a joint injury experiences or that a person having barely any cartilage experiences.

[Lexi]

Originally Posted by Michaela

1. Nobody deserves to be treated the way you were treated and I really hope you'll feel better in the near future.

but

2. Didn't you see that coming ? You didn't gain to over 700 lbs over night, right ?

I know it' s none of my business but this is an open message board, so...

3. Doesn't anybody know someone with power (politician, celebrity...) who can help her ?

Hi Michaela,

Feel free to give out your point of view. I want to get all feedback I can so that I can try to figure out a game plan to get back my mmobility.

In answer to your question; I was not gaining on purpose. That never was my intention. I did try to speak to my local representative. All she did was tell me that my county was trying to buy a bariatric ambulance. I have since discovered that even after coming to my house so many times over the years for emergencies and having actually on this last time giving them my measurments. the new ambulance will not be wide enough to fit me in.

Sigh

[fatgirlflyin]

Originally Posted by Angel

I'd like to mention something here. The pain that a young and healthy 300 pound mobile person experiences while or after jogging is not the same type of pain that a person with a joint injury experiences or that a person having barely any cartilage experiences.

No where in my post did I say that it was the same. In fact what I said was that I DO NOT know what its like to live life at 700 pounds but that I knew how I (I being me) feels at my 300 pounds.

So that goes without saying that if it hurts me its gottat be more painful for someone heavier than me...