My immune system has taken a big hit from RA, my medications, and Ironman training. I recently had a severe UTI that was not responding to treatment. On my fourth antibiotic I developed pneumonia. For that I was given a Rocephin shot and another oral antibotic making it 6 antibiotics in 2 months. The dr then decided to continue me on an additional 30 day treatment of antibiotics.
I had an appointment with my rheumatologist and got some news I didn't want to hear. Osteopenia has progressed quickly to Osteoporosis which explains why I break so easily. I am at high risk for another hip fracture and fracture of the major bones. The inflammation caused from RA as well as the Prednisone and Methotrexate increases bone loss which is one of the reasons we are trying to taper to a lower dose of Prednisone. We are beginning treatment for Osteoporosis.
The doctor took a listen to my lungs and there is still fluid in my lower lung. The pnuemonia has not yet resolved.
My RA is not repsonding as well as we'd hoped. We're going to make another adjustment to my RA meds and depending on how I respond discuss other treatment options.
None of this was news I wanted to hear of course.
When this journey began, I was told never to do more than a Sprint distance triathlon with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have done every distance but a 140.6. That WILL happen on April 22. As you know it hasn't been an easy journey. In just these two years of training I have had 4 broken bones, 4 surgeries, nerve damage in my elbow, numerous illnesses, and my daily fight with RA. I know it sounds insane. Should I have listened? Why is it so important to me to keep going thru all this? While a lot of people wouldn't understand, I think many of you who follow my journey do. There's a fire in you too! You fight your battles and you don't give up!
I had an appointment with my rheumatologist and got some news I didn't want to hear. Osteopenia has progressed quickly to Osteoporosis which explains why I break so easily. I am at high risk for another hip fracture and fracture of the major bones. The inflammation caused from RA as well as the Prednisone and Methotrexate increases bone loss which is one of the reasons we are trying to taper to a lower dose of Prednisone. We are beginning treatment for Osteoporosis.
The doctor took a listen to my lungs and there is still fluid in my lower lung. The pnuemonia has not yet resolved.
My RA is not repsonding as well as we'd hoped. We're going to make another adjustment to my RA meds and depending on how I respond discuss other treatment options.
None of this was news I wanted to hear of course.
When this journey began, I was told never to do more than a Sprint distance triathlon with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have done every distance but a 140.6. That WILL happen on April 22. As you know it hasn't been an easy journey. In just these two years of training I have had 4 broken bones, 4 surgeries, nerve damage in my elbow, numerous illnesses, and my daily fight with RA. I know it sounds insane. Should I have listened? Why is it so important to me to keep going thru all this? While a lot of people wouldn't understand, I think many of you who follow my journey do. There's a fire in you too! You fight your battles and you don't give up!
And you stand beside me as I fight mine. I can't tell you how much I appreciate that. I can honestly say this journey wouldn't be the same without you and without your support!
In 30 days I will be running in this very spot and I WILL hear the @ironmanvoice Mike Reilly call out "Iron Will Iron Jill YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!!!"
I have an amazing team of doctors and I owe them so very much! I wanted to share their names with you in case you ever need them! Good doctors/people like these ones are so very hard to come by! I am so thankful for each and every one of them!
Dr. Randall Johnson - Rheumatologist
Andy Cox - Physical Therapist
Dr. Albert Lipscomb - Orthopedist
Dr. Raj Syal - OB/GYN
Dr. Kelly Aguilar - Endocrinologist
Dr. Kristyn Payne - Dermatologist
Dr. Samir Shirodkar - Urologist
Dr. Bernardo de la Guardia - Cardiologist
If you would like one of my team shirts they can be ordered at https://flyingacetees.com/ironjill
Jill, I'm in awe of your drive and iron will. You inspire me and others with your dedication and driving force. Your truth in your struggles and victories allows us feel we are with on the sidelines right there with you. I can't wait to see cross that finish line and many others to come. Kick ass Jill. Don. @orrunner68
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear that you are having such a hard time--but I have no doubt that you will cross that finish line! If nothing else, these endurance events teach us a lot about determination and perseverance!
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