My first Shot!

[Heather3418]

Well...I took my first step towards taking a more active role in fighting MS and it's relapses and remissions.  I took my first shot of Copaxone today.  (This is taken just under the skin) For those that do not know about this Disease Modifying Drug, this shot will have to be taken daily.  I use to take Avonex, (once a week into the muscle) which is an Interferon Beta1A drug; for three years.  The flu like side-effects never decreased for me, which is unlike what others experience.  Most people report that the flu like side-effects dissapate within 24-48 hours, but for me they lasted 4-5 days.  So after three years, I finally gave up on Avonex.  It was a GREAT drug and kept me almost totally free of any attacks.  So don't let my experience with Avonex discourage any of you.

Anyway, I have a little stinging at the injection site, (thank god for all this hanging skin at my belly, which looks like the mud-flaps off an 18 wheeler, since my large weight loss) but other than the slight stinging, no side effects, that CAN happen right after injection.  If you do have an immediate side effect, it usually consists of some heart palpatations, some possible chest pressure and anxiety,etc.,  but in my case, thank the dear Lord, nothing.  I feel absolutely fine.  I DID IT!  I took that first step....

I have had my little box of Copaxone in the refrigerator for almost 2 weeks now, but due to my father's passing and funeral service out of town, my Neuro wanted me to wait until I was back at home, calmed down somewhat and ready emotionally, before taking the first shot.

So my forum friend, Amyloo that will begin her Copaxone next week....it's okay Amy girl.  It really is okay.  Remember girl, we will go through this together.

I worked so hard on my weight loss to rid myself of daily insulin shots, which I did achieve...I sure wasn't anxious to start injecting myself again on a daily basis, but the MS dictates that I do something to help prevent further relapses, so daily shots it is....

I feel good....

Heather

[Super_sally888]

Way to go girl.  That's a wonderful start!

You know, I reckon that good attitude goes a long way towards managing MS. Not withstanding the crocks who say all our symptoms are just stress and anxiety, our minds really do play a huge role in how well we handle things, and affect our immune system, and general health.

With your great attitude you are going to be as successful as it is possible to be.

And the support you give to everyone also goes a huge way.  

Thanks Heather.

Sally

[kitten o]

GREAT FOR YOU HEATHER,
BEST OF LUCK WITH YOUR SHOTS.
KITT

[Heather3418]

To answer your question..yes I gave myself the shot.  Since I used to be insulin dependent, I didn't need any formal training.  My Neuro wanted the health nurse to come over to my house to be with me for my first shot, but I insisted that I would do just fine with the love of my life at my side to encourage me.  He is such a great comfort and support to me.  I am a fortunate woman, indeed.  I am truly blessed by a fantastic God, my partner and my good friends.

My love,
Heather
P.S.  Thank ALL of you for your support.  Starting treatment and finally taking an active role in fighting this monster, can sometimes be daunting.  It's the only thing we have right now, so I am willing to give it all I can.  MS will not win this time...

[Amyloo]

Thank you Heather for letting us know this!!  Your encouragment and willingness to share helps us all.  My continued prayers to you friend, Amy

[speechgeek]

Yea!!! Great job! Let us now how it works for you!!

Rebeccah

[sllowe]

Hi Heather,

This is good news!  Your words here sound strong, and I hope the meds are just as strong for you and the course of MS has given you. . . .

Be well my friend, you deserve it. It was nice of you to share your relationship and tribute to your father with us.  I enjoyed reading it, how wonderful that must be.

I hope we can serve to lift your spirits as much as you do ours each and every day,

Much love to you girl,
Be well,
SL

[essdipity]

Wonderful!! Did you do the injection yourself, or did they send the Copaxone nurse over? I know you already know how to do it, but sometimes these people insist.

It's great that you had practically no reaction. I hope that means you never will, but I guess we can't be sure. But even if you do get anxiety, etc., you'll know just what's causing it and that it will soon pass, so that should minimize things.

Keep telling us how it goes!

ess

[Momzilla]

You go, Girl!

I'm proud of you!  And great job getting rid of the insulin, too!  My mom just accomplished that this past fall.  No small feat.  Diabetes is such a drag and affects our health so detrimentally.  Yea, you!

Feel better and better!

Zilla*

[AMERS389]

Good job girl...Day one done...very little reaction...you're gonna do great....The other Amy in Austin...:)
Wish I knew where I am going...read my post under MS diagnosis.."had neuro appt and he states not MS..help confused"
Well I am back in limbo land again...oh well, I will hang in there...God Bless