@lacy2 Hello, Lacy. I'm so sorry you feel so alone. You know, these Mayo Connect groups are a life-saver me. Filled with people working hard to find answers to tough questions where there may be no answers, or where they may find surprising answers.

It's been a real eye-opener for me. And a joy. I've found out I'm NOT alone! There are lots of folks right here who care about me and about you. We can be friends here and share thoughts and feelings and really help other folks. How wonderful is that????

Lacy, I think my getting and feeling better began a couple years ago when I decided not to let the things that are attacking me hurt me anymore. I made a conscious decision. Thought about it and decided I will not be beaten by these diseases or poor diagnoses or lack of care. I will not be beaten!

I reached the point I'd had enough. It was over. I was sobbing in desperation. I talked with God, asked for help, took a deep breath, picked up the phone and called Mayo Clinic for help. That was the beginning, that's when my faith in God took over. I felt His love and support. He wanted me to be ok. That's when I felt deep inside a strength of thought, focus, clarity.

So, whatever we have going on, whatever is attacking you, I believe we come to a point we turn to our faith that there is a higher being who wants us to prosper, to take control of life. There is something very deep inside us, I believe you have it you just haven't found it yet. My faith in God is what gives me determination to take the next step forward.

Take a deep breath, make a decision to have less discomfort or pain for one minute. That's all. Take charge of 1 minute. Refuse pain. You think it gone and then one minute at a time, refuse to accept any illness in your body or life, I talk out loud to myself, tell my back or legs or hands or feet to stop hurting. Take a deep breath, relax and put my mind in a good place. I'm in control. Illness and depression have no place in my life or my body. Listen to good music, allow soothing thoughts only in my head. Talk to God out loud, thank Him through-out the day for the good things happening. It's amazing what happens. I change. I'm well....I'm not thinking sick.

So, I play these tricks and games to change my thought patterns. God and I are partners. My body may still hurt, I may be ill, but my attitude is healthier. When I go to sleep tonight, in a very few minutes, I'll have a smile on my face and be at peace. I may not wake up. But I'll be at peace. Wonderful.

All I can say, my friend, is this is what's happening with me. I'm watching a transformation in my life and loving every minute. I pray the same for you.
Blessings and love tomorrow! elizabeth