Just a "zebra" trying my best to live life to the fullest with EDS and POTS...and loving the ride.

Pain is Real. So is Hope.

Written by Katie. Posted in Ehlers-Danlos Appointments, Prolotherapy

I returned to Mishawaka yesterday for more prolotherapy. I have been struggling with my first ribs, neck pain, jaw pain, and headaches lately so I was relieved it was time for shots again, as twisted as that sounds.  I worked all the way there in my benefit planning world, knowing I would not be able to move much the rest of the day.

Prolotherapy Through My Eyes

Written by Katie. Posted in Ehlers-Danlos Appointments, Ehlers-Danlos Awareness, Medical Team, Prolotherapy

I started prolotherapy treatments in 2011.  I have lost count as to how many I’ve had. I have learned along the way that prolotherapy is controversial in the world of EDS. The first EDS doctor I saw after I was diagnosed actually did not recommend it, although he admitted he did not know much about it. At that time, I was having a horrible time keeping my back and head supported without a neck or back brace. That doctor actually diagnosed me with cranial instability and sent me on my way with a referral to a spine surgeon, telling me he suspected the surgeon would determine that I needed a skull to C-3 fusion.

A Letter to one of the Best

Written by Katie. Posted in Ehlers-Danlos Appointments, Ehlers-Danlos Awareness, Inspiration, Thankful

Dear Dr. Lavallee,

I got your letter last week.  I think I smiled and cried at the same time when I read you were leaving your practice in South Bend and moving to a different practice in York, PA.  I immediately felt so happy for you but sad for us Michiana EDS’rs.  You have been there from the beginning, ever since I discovered I belong in this special club we like to call “zebras.” 

“I can bear any pain as long as it has meaning.” ~Murakami

Written by Katie. Posted in Ehlers-Danlos Appointments, Prolotherapy

I had prolotherapy again on Wednesday.  This was intentional scheduling on my part.  I knew when I finished gymnastics camp, I would be one hurting zebra, so I figured having shots right after camp ended would be a good way to tune everything up, and help relieve some of the pain.

It was a very early morning complete with a few choice words when the alarm went off. 

\”In the End Some of your Greatest Pain Becomes your Greatest Strength\”

Written by Katie. Posted in Ehlers-Danlos Appointments, Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy, round #Ihavelostcount.

Thursday marked nine weeks since I had my last prolotherapy injections.  That is the longest I have gone since I started, and I think it was a couple of weeks too long.  The two weeks leading up to my appointment, I was dealing with some major neck and shoulder pain…to the point that I was sleeping with my trusty rice heating pads again.  Needless to say, I was ready to get in the car and make our way to Dr. Cantieri’s office.