Surgery Count Down

I am counting down the days to surgery. All pre-op appointments are done. Everything looks good and we are moving forward with surgery date February 2nd. I ask you to hold me in your thoughts and prayers for this day and the weeks following. This is the third hip replacement on the left side. Hopefully the last!! Luckily lupus is not active!! Yippie.

I want people to understand lupus can go into remission but the ramifications of side effects from medications and treatments, in addition to the damage created by the disease itself, can be a life long challenge. The importance of funding research is so very important. Lupus is on the rise, as are other auto immune diseases, even with our troops coming home from Iraq. The causes need to be found. The "new" University of Michigan Lupus Program is a big step in this direction and a dream come true for my family. I am blessed to be involved as a patient and as an advocate. This is an exciting time as we get closer to understanding all auto immune disorders. My hat is off to all the devoted researchers and clinicians who give so much of their time and knowledge.

The snow keeps coming! Some say this is the most snow in our area ever during this particular time period. The snow covered Frasier Fur branches are stunning in the sunlight. The little kid in me just loves the snow. I think winter is one of the most peaceful of times. It is a time to go inward and cozy up. It brings families together and opens opportunities to look deep within and quietly reflect . For me this is not a social time but the quiet after the holiday storm. I come out in spring feeling renewed and refreshed for gardening, swimming,kayaking and spending long hours outside in the fresh air. I love how the seasons truly reflect our internal clocks. May your clocks be renewed and your winter be blessed. I will write after surgery and Douglas will be writing updates.