October 2008 Update

I had my doctor appointment, October 1, 2008 and I received wonderful news today. My T-cells were 853 – up from 498 in June and I remain undetectable in my viral load. 853 is my all-time high since being diagnosed almost nine years ago. The only disappointing news was my cholesterol went up and I have been given until December 22 to try to adjust my diet and see how that works before reverting to medicines. One particularly funny thing is that both doctors are hell-bent on making sure I get my colonoscopy and have a prostate exam – I have to remind them smiling, “I won’t be fifty for another month, so relax!”

I have had a very aggravating time with my new Jazzy so I returned it August 6. It was making like a “chirping” sound whenever it went forward since the middle of June. I tried to have it fixed but the company did a 180 degree turn in a matter of two weeks and told me basically it was my imagination and that sound is normal. I beg to differ. I have had a Jazzy since 2002 and it never made such a sound, so I finally gave up arguing with them and went directly to the manufacturer who sided with the distributor by just reading their report. The manufacturer is only ten miles from my home and they never sent a technician to even look over the unit. Needless to say, I got totally frustrated and returned the unit. Even the guy that came for it was confused as to why the technician said the noise was normal. When I told him that the first technician wanted to change a motor – he agreed. The company promised to reimburse my insurances which they finally did September 15. I am so aggravated from the entire situation and on top of that – the reimbursement was made but it takes forty-five days for it to show up in the system. As of now, I am using my original Jazzy which was refurbished back in April and so far it is running fine – knock on wood. I have to hope it continues to work until then. I cannot believe the circles of deception I have been through lately by the old Jazzy company, the new one and even the manufacturer. And, to top this entire situation further is the un-concern of my insurance to help. I have explained over and over that needing a power chair is my quality of life issue – I use it every waking hour to do my daily tasks and not just because I am too lazy to walk while shopping like so many so-called “disabled” people. I am so frustrated so, enough for now.

I have been re-doing the book since I sent queries out in 2007. Some suggestions were made regarding the format and I decided to try them and finish that process by October 1 which I did the day before! I will start sending queries out after November 1 which is my personal deadline to finish going over the book making adjustments. I have given myself all of October to get it ready.

I am totally into watching, True Blood on HBO. It is a very sexy show about vampires. It’s a good mix of everything but it interested me enough to order the Anne Rice books through Amazon. They will be my next books to read aloud. I guess I never outgrew my curiosity of the forbidden love thanks to Dark Shadows – remember that show? I guess I never overcame my obsession of sexy and romantic ghosts and vampires.

Arlene bought a new car – a red Pontiac Solstice. It is a gorgeous looking car and it is hers alone now. She hasn’t had her own car in years so this is her “toy.” It is a very sporty convertible and it’s something she’s always wanted.

I have rearranged my bedroom. I got rid of a free-standing shelf unit and my big clothes hamper to get rid of some clutter and giving me more room to move some things around. I have put my walker at the side of my bed which will give me easier access to it. I want to start using it during the day for simple walks to the love seat to write, read or watch TV. I am hoping it helps even more with my balance and walking. I think the whole power chair issue has made me wish to not rely it for everything and also I am cutting back some things (mainly outdoor projects) to keep it in working order.

I think I’ve discovered a new ailment like tennis elbow. How about Frisbee arm?? LOL
I noticed my arm is aching more and more but only if and when I throw the Frisbee for Shadow. It isn’t bad and I don’t plan to stop playing with the dogs but I think it is an amusing thought..

Ever since I won at the Pennsylvania Lottery with a decent amount – only four figures but I’m happy, I keep playing hoping for a replay of my win. So far, a bunch of free tickets, $4.00, $10.00 and even $25.00 – I’ll take it all because every little bit helps and I never know!

Well, the next update won’t be until after the Holidays so I am sure there will be a lot to write about: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hannukah, Christmas and New Year. (I can’t believe the store have Christmas things out already!!)

Promise - more BLOGs to follow!!!!

Be well and hugs,

Ron