Immunocompromised?!

Ugh .. today has been a rough one. I worked myself apparently to my new “max” yesterday and today I am paying for it with a 101.7 fever, the shakes, and loss of appetite. Let me just bring you back to who I was way back when so that we can (together) have a clearer picture of this drastic change.

One of my 1st grown up jobs, I was with for almost 9 years. In those 9 years, I must have called in sick about 3 times. And mind you, I only called in sick those times because my boss had previously sent me home every time I had attempted to come in. I was never the sickly one. It would be impossible for me to “get what he has” if anything was going around work. Apparently, that is no longer the case. Actually I still remember when my doctor had asked me if I wanted him to give me documentation advising that I am immunocompromised. Like what in the heck is that?!?! I barely knew how to spell that, let alone want to carry around a piece of paper saying such.

immuno

I swear the only time it was cool to be “immunocompromised” was when this older gentleman seated next to me on my flight to Guatemala was coughing up a storm and the only seat available for me to switch to was in 1st class. Hahaha, that was actually pretty great!

But today .. my immunodeficiency is not so great. I was probably around someone with a runny nose and now here I am, useless in bed.

It still baffles me that a “skin rash” diagnosis like Psoriasis has changed so much of me. My resilience against becoming sick has lessened, but my resilience within to have a beautiful life has strengthened leaps and bounds. My skin seems to have weakened because of the scratching and the sores, but I have become thick-skinned against the stares and the comments made about my appearance. My voice has often cracked or has been muted by being sick and the soreness  in my throat, but I have been more VOCAL about my pain, my struggle, my overcoming, my beautiful life.

Psoriatic Disease truly changes you .. it’s your heart though that determines how you can adapt to that change.

9 thoughts on “Immunocompromised?!

  1. Immunocompromised; I didn’t know a word existed! I feel you. I’ve been battling psoriasis for 3 years now. It has totally changed my life. Are you currently taking any meds for it?

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    1. Actually I’ve gone rogue and decided not to take anything. I’m currently diagnosed with Psoriatic Disease and I’m completely holistic although its been hard as of late since the psoriatic arthritis is not happy.

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      1. Same here. My derm fired me for my co-pay balances. Haha =) So I’ve been off of meds and the patches have returned. My life has been a living hell since then. But you know, it’s okay. I’ve been meaning to heal myself naturally. And being on meds just unmotivates me because I have a medication to mask my disease instead of taking care of my inner self. And plus, I don’t wanna be depending on drugs my whole life. I don’t wanna live like that. I just wanna be normal again.

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  2. Aw kat, I hate hearing this! I know my availability has really sucked lately due to feeling run down myself. But even when feeling my worst, I can usually text even when I’m not up for a physical talking convo. Feel free to reach out any time. Wish we lived closer- we could have PsA movies on the couch days together. Haha

    Just something I wanted to mention for you to keep in the back of your mind for the future. A few months ago, my first remicade infusion was delayed because of high fevers. They were caused by my inflammation levels. I was off all my PsA meds when my insurance changed and new medication was pending approval. While on no meds- my levels sky rocketed… which had caused high fevers for about a week. Visited my PCP and Rhuemy…. no infection, all other blood tests ordered were normal. my only symptoms were fever and increased pain. This disease is a constant struggle and always presents something new!

    Anyway- thinking of and keeping you in my prayers. Hope you feel better very soon and #letsKickSomePsoriASIS !!

    Deanna

    PS. Loving your blog, thanks for sharing. Feeling inspired to write!

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    1. No way man!! You are an amazing friend and I always appreciate you sharing yourself. #youneverfallshort .. Aches and all. I do wish we were at least 20 miles closer though lol! I am on the mend, but still a little fluish today sans fever – praise God.

      That’s interesting though that you mention being off of your meds and the fever episode. As you know, I haven’t been taking anything yet, but I think my body is telling me that “it’s time”.

      Grand news is that I have my 1st consult with Dr. Shibuya tomorrrrrrrooowwwww and I am PsuperJuiced!!!

      Thanks love for sending me this note!! Again .. I appreciate your friendship. Write On!!

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  3. You are truly a strong woman and I admire your strength. Amani and I held hands and prayed for you and your healing and also thanked God for bringing you into out lives.
    I look up to you my sister because the saying is true never judge a book by the cover. On the outside looking in you never know the battles one person may face but through love and compassion and someone sharing there story it might make all the difference in the world!
    Thank you for being the kind hearted and loving person you are!
    We love you
    May God Bless you for always being a blessing to others!!!

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