Just to let you know...

Well here goes.

I spent several hours in the ER yesterday. My belly was swollen as were  my feet and legs. The doctor wanted me to go to the OSF clinic for an abdominal x ray. I felt that it would be too much for me to travel an hour and then have to wait for treatment. So, Joe decided to call the paramedics and have me transported by ambulance. I can't say enough good about our fire dept. They are so caring and gentle with people and know just what to say to calm you down. So far, they have given me the best care.

So that brings me to this....after x rays, ct scan etc. We found that I have ascites. There is fluid in the abdominal cavity that shouldn't be there. I look like I'm about to have a baby at this point. Weak as a kitten and shortness of breath. I haven't been able to sleep.They told me that not much would be done over the weekend and I could go home and come back if I get worse. I am to make an appt at a gastro enterologist as soon as  possible. There are a couple of things that might be causing this. Liver not working right or bowel. I don't drink alcohol...never have smoked and don't use caffeine, so the cause of this is a puzzle.

Now, we have to find a doctor that can take me soon. Now, I'm on my soapbox....the health care system in our country is really bad. The days when you could just call the doctor and he would see you are gone. You almost have to jump through hoops to get attention today. Old people seem to be lost in the shuffle. Where are the geriatric doctors? You think you are doing the right thing by going to your doctor and having regular checkups....and then if they do find something... it will be taken care of. Now, you go to the doctor and then do followups with his nurse on the phone..... that's how it's done today. Sometimes waiting all day for them to call back. A phone call or two isn't enough....how can they see your progress by talking on the phone?

I don't know what is going to happen. That's the scary part. I try to keep a positive attitude, but that is slipping away.

I appreciate all your loving comments....this old computer chair is the most comfortable place for me. During the night, I often come here and read them over and over again.

I have a strong faith that God will see me through this. Please pray for me.

Love to all of you,
Balisha