Re: [TMIC] TM and flu shots
Rod & Karyne Jenke (rktjenke(AT)cobweb.com.au)
Thu, 13 May 1999 13:48:16 +0930
Hi Nancy,
Flu shots, mmm, I thought I was doing the right thing in Winter '96 getting
a flu shot because of my asthma history, as I'm now paralysed at T8/9
and have a very weak coughing mechanism - but I ended up getting an
infection and
an attack of encephalitis (can't remember September of that year) I was in
hospital for 5 months and the doc's blamed the flu shot! so now I am not
allowed to have it any more (and am just getting my first cold of this
winter) I was very sick while in hospital, lost all my hair, had seizures,
(like I said can't remember September I was in a coma like state
but was still abusing everyone who came near me! especially the doc's who
put the central line & nasal tube in!) Anyway I recovered (not that all the
family who came from interstate thought I was going too) and feel ok now but
it was a scary episode so I'm staying away from the flu shots and doing
what I'm told for a change!!
Nancy, I don't know what else you can do about the weight problem, it is
really cruel that we need to eat to feel better and also to keep well - but
I always say a broken biscuit has no calories since they all fell out, same
applys when you cut a cake-all the calories escape!!(LOL) It not only makes
me feel horrible but I get heavier to lift also, which puts strain on arms
etc, I think we should be able to trade one problem for another - ok, I've
got TM but I don't want the weight problem or vica versa ! I know its silly
but!!
Anyway I hope you stay well, you have certainly had your share!
Love Karyne
-----Original Message-----
From: Nancy Mullis <nmullis(AT)nlamerica.com>
To: tmic-list(AT)eskimo.com <tmic-list(AT)eskimo.com>
Date: Monday, 10 May 1999 6:33:am
Subject: [TMIC] TM and flu shots
>Hi,
>Nancy here, once again. As one previously diagnosed with GB, only to
eventually find out I had had TM the entire time, I had been warned early on
to avoid flu shots. I have feelings but residual spastic paralysis from the
chest downwards. In 1980, I was told by a college infimary doctor that I
needed the yearly flu shots since I was suceptible to upper respiratory
infections. I continued avoiding flu shots anyway, to keep from getting a
paralysis set-back. Well, last winter (1998) I was hospitalized with
lower-lobe double pneumonia. To hear my doctors and family tell it, I
almost died. Thank God I'm back among the living! I have so much lung
damage now, I use a nebulizer with ipratopium bromide and albuterol daily,
and sleep with oxygen at night. My internal medicine doctor (who brought me
from death's door) once again reiterated I needed the flu shot. Well, I
took it fall '98, and have, thus far, had a wonderful year and spring. Lord
willing, I'll continue to take !
>!
>the flu shot each fall, no longer scared of them. I'd rather take the
small risk of paralysis again than to take the greater risk of another bout
of respiratory problems. Listen to the doctors, weigh your options, and do
what you think is best for you.
>