When???

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I was diagnosed with Sarcoid in 1998.  After three lung  biopys my doctors determined I have had Sarcoid since I was a toddler - 1963!  I was sick a lot as a child - especially with bronchitias.  Now I know why.

I had to take 80mgs daily of Prednisone for years to 'burn' the Sarcoid on my lungs.  After two years it came back and I started all over again!  I am 5' and ended weighing 320 pounds!  Now I am on 5 mgs of Prednisone and weigh 190 lbs.

The Prednisone has destroyed my body.  I have had a lot of health problems - especially arthritis and have two surgeries to fix my left thumb bone on bone and an 8" rod in my right leg - bone on bone - no more ankle.

I am not on oxygen, but I only have about 30% use of my lungs.  I can not bend over without feeling faint and I have fainted some!  I have developed a lot of GI problems and the biggest one is gastroparesis - causes lots of pain and other fun things!   I use two inhalers, nublizer when needed and about 15 RX and 12 OTC meds.

I have an excellent group of compassionate and kind doctors.

I am very blessed with my family who are very supportive and loving.  I am from VA and was living in CA when I was diagnosed.  I had to move back home because I needed more help than my friends could give.  My friends!!!!  I have not seen them in over 10 years and they still call me and write me.  I also have a rich spiritual life.  And easy hobbies like reading!!!