by benforred | Sep 26, 2023 | Cancer, Health, history, Medical Procedures, Medical Providers, Mental Health, Ostomy, Pain, Short Bowel, Surgery, Survival, Symptoms
La Mémoire Noire or The Dark Memory is a letter series written to my first surgeon. The man who caused everything ultimately in my life to reach this point today. I was to have 2 surgeries beginning at the age of 9 and his surgical errors altered the course of...
by benforred | Aug 15, 2022 | Advocacy, Health, Medical Providers, Medication, Symptoms
Self advocacy is often a trial by error skill that we learn out of necessity with chronic illness. Each encounter with a medical provider may be different and can be a teaching opportunity for us. Studies have shown that the more someone is motivated to be involved in...
by benforred | Apr 25, 2022 | Health, Medical Procedures, Medical Providers, Nausea, Pain, Symptoms
After 6.5 months of chronic pain that was only improved but not cured by Lyrica, consults with 7 types of doctors, a multitude of tests and an absorbent toll physically, mentally, and financially – I finally have a diagnosis: Abdominal Migraine. All of my...
by benforred | Jan 27, 2022 | Medical Providers, Medication, Pain, Procedures, Surgery, Symptoms
In the time since my last update in the beginning of November, I continue to have chronic pain since the 2.5 weeks after my 8th surgery to remove my gall bladder and adhesions for the third time. A lot and yet not enough has occurred during this span.Carafate...
by benforred | Nov 8, 2021 | Health, Medical Procedures, Medical Providers, Surgery, Symptoms
I was hoping my health would have improved after experiencing chronic pain complications after returning to work following my 8th surgery; but alas, there has been none. Where I’ve Been Having Chronic Pain since 9/13/21Not only has my pain continued...
by benforred | Aug 4, 2021 | Health, Medical Procedures, Medical Providers, Procedures, Symptoms
I undergo an upper and lower GI scope every two years presently due to my Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. My FAP polyp growth is slow enough at this time to not require more frequent screening. I continue to have a carpeted stomach of fundic gland polyps and...
