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[kgrier]

It's been awhile since I've had a snag, and apparently, I was due for one. Last week, my doctor called to tell me I now have hypothyroidism. I'd like to think I've had it for some time, as it would explain problems I've had since before my PsA went active, but they've been checking my thyroid levels for months and this is the first mention

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[rest_in_thee]

What is psa?

I had thyroid cancer last year, and they took my entire thyroid out, which now means I am permanently hypothyroid. The good thing about hypothyroid is that it is super easily treatable, just a pill every day and that's it.

Anyway, I will keep you in prayer, for what it's worth.

Sorry to drop in like this. I'm mostly just procrastinating by being an lj-stalker ;-)

[kgrier]

psa (or, rightly, PsA) is psoriatic arthritis. it is an autoimmune disease marked most visually by rheumatic inflammation in the joints. in this way, it's very much like rheumatoid arthritis. unlike ra, however, it also causes the immune system to attack tissue (in the form of psoriasis), muscles, organs, tendons... pretty much anything with which the immune system can come in contact.

it's caused hashimoto's disease, which means my hypothyroidism is probably permanent, as well (and we've got to keep an eye out for lymphoma). so, you and i are in the same pill-popping boat!

i'm always appreciative of prayer, and you can be sure i'm reciprocating.

in love,
kim

[rest_in_thee]

Ugh, that sounds rough. Definitely praying. Your attitude is wonderful. I know in my own struggles I have found that suffering can be such a profound experience of faith. The closest I've ever felt to God, the greatest experience I've ever had of His nearness, was during my cancer treatments. Faith is a powerful union, and the Cross of Christ makes ours not only bearable, but even fruitful.

[kgrier]

my prayer through this is not so much "lord heal me," or even "lord, ease my pain," but "lord, safeguard my attitude." because, for a time, the medication i was on stripped me of my choice in the matter, and that, of all things, was the hardest to endure.

our attitudes, especially during difficulties, are one of the most potent witness to others of our relationship with the one true god in christ. as long as my attitude remains effective, i can deal with anything this disease throws at me.

because there is nothing quite like his brand of comfort!

[kgrier]

also, i'm glad you were able to know that, too, throughout your ordeal! cancer...not so much fun.