![]() |
![]() |
![]()
I have just received my application for membership which I am sending in immediately. Thank goodness there is finally a support group for Cushing's.
I was diagnosed with Cushing's in January of 1992. I had the disease for two and a half years prior to my diagnosis. I was seeing an internist and a cardiologist, was being treated for high blood pressure, and was told to lose weight. During the course of my two-and-a-half years, I gained 65 pounds and my blood pressure was uncontrollable. I had severe bruising and skin that became so thin that it bled under my breasts and between my thighs. They still treated me for high blood pressure, said I was premenopausal and blamed most of my plight on weight gain.
I broke my foot and ankle (I was told due to my weight). My husband finally took me to the emergency ward when I couldn't breathe. They found four broken ribs and two older fractures that were healing. I was asked if I was abused. When I told them of my history of illnesses, they told me to see an endocrinologist immediately and gave me a name of one in the hospital. I thank God everyday for that endocrinologist, Dr. Anthony Cannon.
Dr. Cannon told me immediately that I had Cushing's and all my symptoms-weight gain, high blood pressure, stretch marks, acne, brittle bones, fatigue and others were classic symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome. I was definitely not losing my mind nor was I a hypochondriac.
After three months months of testing, both adrenal glands were removed. I had two tumors that destroyed both adrenal glands. I also had a pituitary adenoma.
It's been more that five years since the operations. I am now steroid-dependant, with osteoporosis and severe asthma (steroid-induced). I've been hospitalized 11 times since the operation because of bronchial and pneumonia complications. I have no immune system, which causes problems in my lungs.
I have since moved to Florida and have two new doctors, recommended by my endocrinologist. I am still in contact with Dr. Cannon. Actually, he sent me this application to join your organization. I only wish there were more doctors like him who take care and treat patients as individuals and not as numbers.
Hopefully, doctors and the medical field will become more aware of this disease and be able to diagnose it quickly. Maybe then others will not have to go through so much pain and heartbreak before and after surgery.
It is very hard to resume a normal life after Cushing's, but it is very nice to know there is an organization and people out there that truly care. If I can be of help to anyone, please let me know. God Bless.
|
|
comment on this page
email this page
print friendly
