Still fighting the battle

[Pat1956100]

I just thought I should say hello and let you all know that i am still fighting the battle.  Thanks for all the messages and I am sorry I haven't answered.  I have been feeling pretty rough.  I collapsed a couple of times one day and finally insisted my doctor do something because I was at a point where I was afraid to even walk.  He has diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia and started me on lyrica and Tylenol 3.  I was taking oxy on my own so I am withdrawing from that as well using the T3's.  I hope to just use the Lyrica twice a day.  The only thing is lyrica isn't covered by my drug plan, only narcotics, which makes no sense at all.  I can't really afford the lyrica at this point but I don't want to take narcotics because I abuse them.  I talked with the pharmacist and they agree that it is ridiculous but it's just how it is.
I am trying the Lyrica for one month and will see if it works.  If it does then I will have another battle to fight with the government lol.
Anyway, I just wanted to update you all and let you know I am still alive and fighting this terrible battle with painkillers and pain.  

[Pat1956100]

You are so right littlebit.  The Lyrica is really causing dizziness and just a blah feeling.  I have an appointment next week for a complete physical and if I don't feel better, I am going to ask to see a pain management specialist.  I can't live this way and I am sure that there is something that can help me.
Thanks

[littlebit667]

Pat...finding pain relief is quite a juggle between your needs, insurance and the doctors.  Be as proactive as you can!  I am glad you are continuing to fight the fight and if the Lyrica works you can get your insurance to pay.  See if the doctor will write a letter stating why you need it and how it is helping.  Submit and see if you can get an exception.  I now that is a remote possibility, but at least you are being proactive.  Proud of you!

[Pat1956100]

I agree and you aren't ranting.  You should have heard me when I was talking with the pharmacist.  How does it make any sense that oxy's are covered but Lyrica isn't.  Our countries are having such a problem with opiate addiction yet that is just encouraging it.  Lyrica from what I know is non addictive.  I actually hate the thought of taking it. Opiates on the other hand I always abuse and can hardly wait for my next dose.

Sara, I will talk with my doctor.  I can't handle this feeling.  I just hope there is something else that i can take that won't make me feel this way or that the side effects go away because I do feel like it is giving me pain relief.
I can go up and downstairs without my knees hurting and locking up on me.  

[dominosarah]

Talk with your doctor about the side effects you are experiencing~

[quitinoxys]

I am sorry you are having such a problem getting the meds you need. Unfortunatley Big Pharma and insurance company do not care about people just profits. It is truly a shame that insurance co will pay for opites (which are cheaper) than meds that will help someones condition. I am sorry about the rant but I just have disdain for corporations that care more about the almighty $$$$ than human beings. Try going to Pfizer's website they have a webpage that offers Lyrica at a reduced price. I hope I gave you some help. I will pray for you---God Bless

[conhall]

How long till the side effects go away? Do alot of people have same symptoms maybe someone could give you info on how long side effects last . i am praying for you Pat . I am hoping you get the right meds and they help you ASAP!
i know you are frustrated :/ I am sending you peace and support my friend hang in there! You are One tough cookie and you will get this figured out ;-)

[Pat1956100]

Thanks to all of you again.  I am seriously considering stopping the Lyrica.  I feel so dizzy and unwell.  This is so frustrating.  They say the side effects go away but I just feel so bad.  I'm just not sure what to do.

[smiles4eva]

Oh Pat I am so sorry.  I am breathing easier now that you have resurfaced. I don't have any advice just want to agree with everyone and give my support.

[conhall]

Hi Pat i am so glad you posted  and I am sorry you are having medical issues and the cost of Lyrica . In US Walgreens has a prescription card savings club you pay 20$ a year and it reduces your RX 50%-75% even more on some meds its a Godsend . I am not sure if Canada has this but check into it. I use it and the card paid for itself the first use. Also the Lyrica website maybe could give you help with options also.
I am so glad you are posting i think about you and i am always here to give you my support you are a great voice on this Forum and you are someone that has helped me tremendously with support and advice.
I am here for you :) <3 ((((HUGS)))))

[Pat1956100]

Thanks so much and so sorry for being such a stranger.  I was really feeling badly about myself.  Thought I was such a loser.  I guess I feel a lot better about myself since the diagnosis but it took me collapsing to finally get there.  My whole family was being so hard on me wanting me to get a job when I could barely get out of bed.  I really felt like it was all my fault.
I so appreciate all of your support and you have always been there for me with no judgement no matter what.
Love you guys.

[selfinduced]

Ok, I just called off the search party. Teasin you, but as you know you are a bright light to us all and we worry for you. What can we do to help get you on even ground? Don't give up ok? One way or another you will nail this cycle and get on to the healing. All in your time. Meanwhile, reach out and tap into all the giving you have done over the last several months and lean on us. It takes a village, and we will be your strength. Much love and strength....

[kyle505]

Good to hear from you - you've been missed. Keep fighting the battle. And don't be a stranger. We need you on the forum. Really.

[Pat1956100]

thanks guys
I will check the Lyrica website again.  I only saw help if you lived in the U.S. and I am in Canada.
Here's hoping.

[Sonrissa]

Nice reply, Free, except for the Circus part! Ha!

So happy you are back posting, Pat! I know you will get the love and support you need to help you get through this! This forum needs you and has greatly missed your support and good advice and sense of humor!

Take care, I've always got your back! You will get through this!

[ashka747]

See if you can get some monetary help with the lyrica by going to their website and see if you can get a coupon.

[Free2agoodhome]

Hi Pat...

Was wondering about ya........(though you might have joined the circus)

I wish I had the answer  to why it is you that must face such a bumpy road.  How many people could sit through the struggle you are facing ? Not sure I could,,,, The courage belongs to you, I have a huge amount of respect for your ability to keep going.

You are being made stronger through this ....for some purpose which is unknown to any of us, I want to beleive everything happens for a reason, I do know however that  there is hope and recovery for you.

Leave the past in the past and look forward to your next step in recovery.

I am in your corner and rooting for you.


Free~