IT'S BEEN A GOOD RIDE.....



Whatever is your passion, never stop striving to reach it. 

It might be good to always remember: Hope, Love, Faith, Trust, Perseverance, Comfort in 'your' belief,' in something bigger than yourself will never let you down. 

May this Love and Hope surround you each moment in a tender and loving way.
May Peace and a Calm cradle you, as you continue on your journey each day.

Until next time,
God Bless
Doris

'HOW  LONG DOES ONE SHARE?'   ......  'WHAT IF'?       
                                 'RSDS/CRPS'




Do I have your attention already?  Yes, the title that I have chosen for this post is:
'HOW LONG DOES ONE SHARE?' .... 'WHAT IF'? 




This title could meet anybody reading this in totally different areas and avenues in their thinking.  Would you not agree?  As you continue to read my post, you might want to picture yourself in your particular situation with this statement/title and entertain it as to how you are going to handle it.  It could make a huge difference in your life and in the lives of others.
And, continue to read and consider my point of view in behalf of RSDS/CRPS persons, as well.








Have you ever felt 'what's the use'?  Have you ever heard rumors and/or gossip?  I feel they might have a different twist at times.  And, if we do feel/hear these emotions and statements, how do we handle them? 

I feel this happens from time to time.  There are a number of things that affect those thoughts and feelings.  When do we really know how/what we do might effect another in a life changing way or even a small portion of their day.  I have/had many of those thoughts on my journey. 

As I pen this post and discern the importance of continuing on with my blog, I long to hear from others that have a word or two to share, offer, entertain, comment  .... something/anything to help RSDS/CRPS persons a better way to be treated and supported. 


I know from experience that it is a continual condition.  No, it is not in one's head.  It does exist and there isn't enough being done about it in our local area.  I am hearing and reading that there are support groups and there is a movement in others states but not here locally, that I have heard or can find.   Most medical facilities that I have been a part of say that they have heard of it and they had to study a bit about it in their college courses in their Physical Therapist requirements but that wasn't very much. But, yeah, (YES YEAH), (I am quoting them) they know a little about it.  THAT ISN'T ENOUGH,  in my humble opinion.  They just dismiss it as if it isn't really anything to be concerned about.  Well, I am here to share with you: IT IS SOMETHING TO BE CONCERNED ABOUT.  It is so important to have support and the tools to help oneself and than others early in the stages of RSDS/CRPS.


I remember years ago when I was asked to appear on a TV segment regarding RSDS/CRPS.  After the segment, there were several that contacted the panel for help.  These were persons with RSDS/CRPS.  And, this one person said that she didn't want to get 'too well' because she would lose her Social Security Disability.  Can you even imagine!

Therefore, once again, I feel there is a huge concern regarding both sides of RSDS/CRPS.  If a person with RSDS lives in fear of becoming 'too well' that they can't/won't even help themselves, this is truly sad.  Again, a lack of support, training and professional help.


I can continue to share about my experiences everyday but until another join this endeavor, I wonder about: 'HOW LONG DO I SHARE?'.... and than, I hear this voice within me.   'WHAT IF?'.... and than there is complete SILENCE. 


I will  just leave my thoughts there in closing this post.

Until next time,
God Bless
Doris

'HOPE IS A GOLDEN ROPE'



I pen today a few reflections as I review several events in recent times.  'HOPE' can be vital in our everyday living.  The circumstances of a situation can be 'earth shattering' but 'HOPE' can be 'the seed', if you will, to see us through.....this is a link to the power of Peace, Comfort, Prayers, Faith and Trust. 

Listening to a friend this week, there is great concern as their nephew is very ill from an auto accident.  Hearing of a young man that is hurting in his back and waiting on tests results as to what is next in his journey.  Hearing of a friend's passing, this saddens our hearts.  These are just a few in a very small circle.

If you have followed my writings, you might recall my experience of my plane flight returning from Houston, Texas early on in my diagnosis of RSDS.  God revealed to me that there is 'HOPE' through Him in all things. 

There are no exceptions in age, race, or religion background and/or perils that prevent the link to 'HOPE'.  This brings me to sharing this poem that God gave me the words to pen.

 

'HOPE IS A GOLDEN ROPE'

 

'HOPE' is a Golden Rope.

Perhaps, a 'Heavenly Rope' we cannot see.

Love can cushion many fears

and comfort 'Hope' to free.

 

'Hope', trust and understanding people

help us to appreciate any gift of love.

It is vital to know when to let go

with gracious patience from above.

 

Sometimes it takes years and years

to believe there are true friends to be found.

And, not from just your well known and supportive class,

but, from simple folk from 'common ground'.

 

'Hope' is the 'Golden Rope' to heaven.

May we give thanks for even things we do not want or see.

Faith, Hope, Trust in 'one's Spirit'

are some key essentials that set all of us free.

 

copyrighted by Doris (M) Swertfeger 1992

Until next time,
God Bless
Doris

'TO MY FRIENDS IN THIS PLACE' 'RSDS/CRPS SYMPOSIUM'

This is the poem that I had promised I would share with you in my last post.

To My Friends In This Place

RSDS/CRPS Symposium

1996

 

Life is a time of changing events.

Life is also a time of changing pace.

We have traveled an unique path

in this wonderful human race.

 

We have gathered in this place

to share cheerful things and tailspins.

We have cared and shared our love

to help fight RSDS - to win.

 

We have talked and listened until weary

and just fed up with life.

We are here to give a special lift

through all our pain and strife.

So, George and I say this prayer to all:

We pray for God's protection will keep you in His care.

His Grace to intervene in trails

and His Peace to help you share.

 

We pray for 'His Will' to unfold in your tomorrows,

His Trust and Joy to be felt within.

His gracious refreshing of 'The Spirit'

to brighten each day that begins.

 

                                 Thanksgiving comes from our hearts

for God entrusting 'RSDS' to our care.

Can we trust Him enough to never ask 'WHY'

and seek true meaning with Faith....to Share?

 

It is only in our humility

that God can use us for 'His Mission'.

What silly path would we have chosen, perhaps,

to go without pain, wealth, fame; than to an empty pension?

 

We are glad loving hands prepared this time today

for us to share and help to reach our goal.

Experiences and knowledge, shared and received

are a part of our healing and go deep into the soul.

 

Thank You and God Bless and Keep You In His Care

copyrighted by Doris Swertfeger

09-07-1996

 

 

'TO ALL RSDS/CRPS PERSONS'

I penned sometime ago that I spoke at a symposium in South Bend, Indiana in the late 90's.

The committee's president of this particular symposium had asked me to speak from my view of living with this disease, RSDS/CRPS. 

First, I do not consider it a disease.  It is a 'dis-ease' and an' inconvenience' in my life.  It comes and goes and when it is in my life in a more vibrant way; I HURT, MY LEGS BURN AND THEY BECOME WEAK.  I become frustrated and it prevents me from doing most anything that I want to do during those times. 
However, I have learned to redirect my thinking and acceptance toward 'this too shall pass'.  Sounds easy but everything that I have learned during those times, my thoughts just automatically kick into gear, so to speak.  Just as if an EMT person comes upon a person that needs his/her help.  They do not dwell upon their skills all day but when the need arises, it just automatically kicks in to what they need to do. 

Now, I can just imagine anybody that is reading this that are hurting and frustrated at this time, might be thinking something along the lines of: 'SURE, THAT IS EASY FOR YOU TO SAY', 'WELL, YOU DON'T HURT LIKE I DO', 'YOU PROBABLY DON'T REALLY HAVE RSDS/CRPS'.  And, if there is anybody thinking along these lines, THAT IS OK!!!  ........ As long as you don't 'chalk up' what I am sharing to, "forget it, nobody and nothing can help ME!"  I will now share more of my story.  Please stay with me.

As I shared with many people there at the Symposium, I took my monkey puppet, George, with me.  You see, in my research on RSDS/CRPS and searching within myself with much prayer, hope and perseverance; I have found ways to learn, cope and, hopefully, help others in their coping.  I found these techniques brought 'purpose and meaning' into perceptive. My puppet, George helped me clarify as to how anybody can easily get RSDS/CRPS with a slight injury.  In this case, George came to the Symposium with an ace bandage on his elbow with RSDS/CRPS from running to third base in a baseball game and hit his elbow.   Plus, George has given many people some laughter.  Laughter is healing and releases endorphins.   

In my next post, I will pen a poem that I wrote for all persons that attended the Symposium.
The poem is titled: 'TO MY FRIENDS IN THIS PLACE' 'RSDS/CRPS SYMPOSIUM'

Please remember as we walk this journey with whatever has become our dis-ease and/or inconveniences, there is purpose and meaning in it.  I have found for me, seeking something bigger than myself in helping others has been a vital key in living life on purpose.  First, and foremost, remember, in the beginning of being diagnosed with RSDS, I could not make it on my own and I had to reach out to others.  Now, I can reach out to others to help them and 'in turn' it helps me.  WE NEED ONE ANOTHER.  RSDS/CRPS has become a part of our lives but IT DOESN'T HAVE TO CONSUME US. 

Acceptance says: True, this is my situation at the moment.  I'll look unblinkingly at the reality of it.  But, I'll also open my hands to accept willingly whatever a loving Father sends me.
Catherine Marshall

As we encounter situations that we cannot change, we must learn the wisdom of acceptance .....and we must learn to trust God and/or in a higher being. 


Until next time,
God Bless
Doris

Finish Strong Motivational Quotes

Finish Strong Motivational Quotes

Hi Friends,

Please check this film out!  It is so powerful!  Never give up!  Remember, we can finish strong.

Look beyond yourself with faith, hope and perseverance

Until next time, God Bless

Doris

Greetings,   'ATTITUDE OF LOVE'


As I was thinking today as to what I was going to pen, I pondered the weather.  Now, doesn't that sound rather strange?  Does 'the weather' effect how we look at our day?  Does 'the weather' effect how we plan our day?  Does 'the weather' effect how we feel?  Rather strange, indeed, I think.  Isn't 'WEATHER', just 'weather'?  Do we accept it 'as weather'?

We have been given a glimpse of Spring these past few weeks and our Attitude changes to happy smiling faces.  The next day when/if we have a cloudy, colder, snow flurries and wind blowing everything we have around us; our Attitude is more on the side of gloom.  Would you not agree? Therefore, I would say 'weather is more than weather' because it is effecting our day.  Or, are we allowing it to effect our day?

As I pondered this thought, I started to wonder how many other things effect how we feel, what we do, how we plan and how we act.  I feel, especially, in today's world that all of these factors can/do affect the other in some degree.  Now, the question that follows is: should they?  Who is to answer and/or take responsibility for each of these?  Perhaps, the better question is: 'will it be each of us by our own choosing'? 

I feel that Attitude is vital and it is one of  the most important things to focus or refocus, whichever the case may be, to move us along in our daily choices and actions.

Each day for all of us, there will be different things that come our way.  Some days, we will have minor things that come our way.  At times, we might feel it is a 'dull' day and on another day we might consider it 'earth shattering' and something  might happen that will change our life forever.  And, there are those days that we just can't put our finger on how we would label our day.  Sometimes, I feel that I can label a day, my 'Attitude day'. 

Many days can be good days in whatever might come my way depending on my 'Attitude'.  
Sometimes, I feel that Attitude is more important than facts.  The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the Attitude we will embrace for that day.  We cannot change the past,  we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way.  We cannot change the inevitable.  The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our Attitude.  We are in charge of our Attitude.  For me, I also include Prayer.  Now this is just my way and I do not judge or feel in any way that others should follow in my line of thought and belief.  But, I believe Attitude is powerful and Prayer is the ultimate power to blend the two.   

We can change our Attitude and in our willingness we will change how we feel, how we act, how we plan and how we see the world for ourselves and in turn for others.

How does our Attitude effect RSDS/CRPS persons; in the same way it effects everything else that any person who is ill or healthy.  It will effect our 'whole being'. 
Remember we are all a lot alike but with different faces, different clothes, different houses but in the very middle, we are all the same. 
It is in our choosing from our hearts as to how we will be effected and be effective in our daily living.  Would it not be nice if we chose the 'Attitude of Love'.  Just maybe, God's creatures can teach us about the Attitude of Love.

Until next time.
God Bless
Doris

THE BIRD NEST

From my window, I did look
and what did I see?
A magnolia tree so barren
it was amazing to me.

Where had this bird's nest been?
Out of this window, I look everyday
but, today it was so plain.
It was sitting on the branches in its' own way.

I could hardly wait to get the pic
of this amazing shot of nature's work.
How the mother had crafted her babies' cradle
from leaves, straw, fuzz and even dirt.

She had been busy being a caring mother
for her family, all in stride.
The mystery of God's creation
and she mastering her skills so wise.

Her family she had cared for
since the empty nest was shown.
In proof, that their wings were sprung
and out the nest they had flown.

The bird's nest can convey so much
when we look at more than the straw.
It truly has volumes of miracles
as the Bible is, to 'His Call'.

So, the next time you have the chance
to look at a bird's nest weave.
Just remember from hence it has come
it might enhance your faith to believe.

Doris Swertfeger
(copyrighted 11-2011)
   

This bird's nest is original from mother nature's work outside our window.  The poem, I penned the day that I saw it as I looked out to behold the beauty and God gave me the words to pen them into this poem.

I am so amazed as I enjoy mother's nature work all around us.  With Spring in the air, I thought this would be a good day to express this particular post. 

I feel there are so many ways for coping, healing and our enjoyment.  It is the little things in life that can bridge those gaps that can surprise us in big ways.

Until next time.
God Bless.
Doris

Hi Friends,    'TIME TO MOVE CLOCKS FORWARD...WHAT ABOUT  'OUR CLOCK'?'

Today is the day that we move our clocks forward!  This brings many thoughts to mind as to how this effects other dimensions in our lives. 

There will be 'little ones' waking up a little later than they did this morning, there will be more light outdoors when persons get off of work at 5:00 p.m., there will be 'bellies' feeling hungry pains a bit earlier and sleep patterns will change.  Isn't this amazing?

This small move of the clock's knob will effect numerous other moves that we make because of this one hour time change.  Unbelievable, isn't it?  

On the other hand, this could be a time that we may choose to change a bit.  We might want to reflect on something we would like to change in our day that would effect more than an hour of our life and others but it might take only fifteen minutes to do. 

Perhaps, call a friend, take a walk, read, start a journal, exercise something, eat a different fruit, drink a different drink, laugh everyday.  Do one act of kindness for somebody.  All of the things that I have listed, we can do in less than fifteen minutes per day.  And yes, I am right in here with you. I can/will do this, too.
All of us have 'our muddy ruts' of struggles we walk in from time to time, but we can travel a bit easier when we try not to walk it alone.  I understand when one walks in mud, if they hold the hand of a friend, they tend to stay in a upright position better.

Let's take a minute to reflect on what we wish and pray for at times.  Sometimes, we act as if we want it ALL but do we?  What is ALL?! 

'WELL, I WANT HEALTH'?  BUT,  I DON'T HAVE IT OR DO I?  I feel that we all have 'Health'.  It just might not be in the way we would want it.  Health is what we make it?  Is it? Health is a teacher?  Or is it? I said in my last post that Health is Priceless and Problems are Priceless.  Did I loose you?  I hope not.  Soon, I will share with you how Problems can transform into Inconveniences.  This I can testify to because I believe;  His Grace Is Sufficient. 

This brings me to sympathy and empathy.  Remember my sharing in an earlier post, I did not like sympathy during my times of great pain and I longed for empathy.  Have you ever thought of what sympathy really is:  It is given to support the weakness in a person.  When a person gives another sympathy in loss of a loved one, this is sympathy and it helps comfort.

Empathy is given to support the strength in a person.  When a person gives another empathy during a struggling time in their life to cope, this is empathy and it offers encouragement.  

I read recently from a daily calendar that is on my desk:  I asked for strength and God gave me difficulties to make me strong.  I think maybe next time I'll just be content being weak! (are you laughing yet?)

The next line read:   2 Corinthians 12:10  That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. 

Now, this was the beginning and the end of what was on the Calendar.  Sometimes, I feel it helps to read more for clarity.  Things are taken out of context and this is why I am very guarded in sharing biblical scriptures and/or do I listen to cliches.  I have heard many and they don't set will with me.  You will not hear me preaching or quoting tons of scriptures.  I am not a scholar in the Bible by any means.  I share my experiences and beliefs. 

Nevertheless, I read the rest of the scripture just before this in my bible and it reads: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  2 Corinthians 12:9
(It just might help to write this scripture on a piece of paper and keep it near you.  I find it powerful.  It is in little things as these steps that will be building blocks to your transforming those problems into inconveniences)

I close with this.  My views and beliefs will be different from your views and beliefs.  My mission is to share my story humbly and in empathy from my heart to your heart.   We are all on a journey and if our paths cross for the reasons that are 'Divinely Meant To Be' than I feel it is a worthwhile effort to walk together for awhile. 

Let's never loose sight of Hope in all that we do.  God has a Purpose For Your Life and His Grace is Sufficient To See You Through.

God Bless!
Doris

Hello Friends,

 'MAKING FRIENDS-PRICELESS & GIVE THANKS FOR PROBLEMS-PRICELESS'

Problems are inevitable on our journey.  Every problem can teach us something.
They can transform us little by little into the masterpiece that the Lord created us to be.
Or, by our choices, they can be stumbling blocks by which we fall when we react with distrust, defiance and lack of hope. 

Believing comes from the very depths of who we are.  When we believe, it comes from our heart, not our head.  As we look at our loved ones, do we want to embrace them and do we want to be with them?  Of course, we do. Do we learn from our Friends and grow with/from them?
Of course, we do.   Do we not, think and pray for them that we will grow in His Love and fellowship with our Friends for the good of everyone?  I do!  So, I feel it is fair to say that we become a better person/persons when we bond and stay close to our friends.  Would you not agree?  Why else would we want to be with them, embrace them, and give thanks for them.

Friends are gifts from our heavenly Father, our Lord, our God, a higher power and/or whomever you believe in your heart that provides all things in this world, to those that choose to accept.  This ultimate belief that we know in our hearts that friends nurtures us and allows us to be a better person for ourselves and others is truly a gift.  
MAKING FRIENDS-PRICELESS.

Have we ever thought of Thanking our Heavenly Father for OUR PROBLEMS?  NOT SO MUCH, I am sure.  Well, let me share a little of my story that gave me pause to do just that.
I Thanked God for my Problems! 

You must understand as you are reading my posts that I will repeat myself in various ways from time to time.  And, I give myself permission to do this because this is my story and it is very difficult to have everything in order over a 20 plus years.  So, bear with me.  I am just a simple person, remember me stating this in my profile? This is all relevant.

I shared with you that I had a 'near death experience' in the 1990's.  So much pain, stress and what I had thought and felt was a 'world of hurt' in my life over the past two years of my RSDS/CRPS, I had awaken from a 'near death experience'.  The first thing that went through my mind was: 'where am I and what am I doing here'.  I had been in this wonderful vibrant place of colors, light and a sense of  'awe'.  I looked around and saw a doctor standing over me, oxygen on my face, an IV tubing in my arm and I knew just one thing; I didn't want to be in this place!  After recovering from that episode and some very difficult days that followed, I truly started questioning where God was and why in the world he would bring me back to this! 

Soon afterwards,  with help from others, mostly from an awesome pastor, I searched, prayed, listened and chose to rethink and discern that God must have a reason for allowing me to go through these experiences.  Many reasons, in fact.  One, He had allowed RSD to become a part of my life.  Secondly, He allowed me to go through the 'near death experience' and thirdly, He allowed me to return back from the 'near death experience' for a reason. 

Instead of my becoming angry with God, which I did for quite a while, I chose to focus on the positive and would 'counteract' every negative thought that came into my mind with a positive thought.  I was making better choices each day and as I did this day after day, I begin to BELIEVE in my heart, not my head, that there was a mission for my life right where I was. 

I believed in my heart that 'God allowed in His Wisdom What He Could Have Easily Prevented in His Power.'  This quote is by Graham Cooke and I cannot take credit for it but when I read this, I believed/believe in my heart that this was/is my mission.

If I had never traveled this path without RSDS/CRPS, (a problem), I BELIEVE that I would have never growth into the person that I was Divinely Meant to Be.

I THANKED/THANK GOD FOR PROBLEMS-PRICELESS

I will share very soon on my post: How Problems can transform into Inconveniences.

Until next time,
God Bless!
Doris

Greetings,

I wrote this poem, A Rainbow of Hope, in 1995.  I will share with you soon as to
who God chose to help inspire it. 

A RAINBOW OF HOPE

TODAY I SAW A RAINBOW.
IT LOOKED LIKE ONE THAT I HAD NEVER SEEN BEFORE.
IT WAS WARM WITH VIBRANT COLORS.
I WANTED IT FOR MY VERY OWN.

THE RAINBOW WAS SHIMMERING WITH LIGHT
AND FULL OF WONDER.  IT GAVE ME PEACE IN MY HEART.
I KNEW FROM THIS MOMENT, THERE WAS HOPE FOR MY HEALING
AND I COULD LEARN FROM THIS RAINBOW CHART.

I HEARD A SOFT WHIRRING SOUND
LIKE THE WINGS OF A BIRD BY THE SEA.
AND AS I LOOKED AROUND THIS PLACE,
THE LOVELY RAINBOW WAS ENFOLDING ME.

I GIVE THANKS FOR THE RAINBOW REVEALING MY MISSION
FOR THE BLENDING OF COLORS COME FORTH.
A SOFT GENTLE STIRRING CAME ALL OVER ME.
MY HEART FELT THIS VISION OF HOPE, FOR MY LIFE'S WORTH.

IT IS AMAZING HOW THE SPIRIT
CAN EFFECT OUR STRIVING TO BE ALIVE.
THIS NEW 'AWAKENING CALL', WAS HOW GOD REVEALED
HIS LOVE THROUGH THE 'RAINBOW OF HOPE, FOR ME TO THRIVE.

WE SHOULD NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE CREATOR.
HE HAS A MISSION FOR EACH OF US IN HIS OWN WAY.
IT STARTS WITH HIM AND THEN IT IS OUR CHOICE OF 'WILL'.
OUR MISSION WILL BEGIN FROM THIS POINT, LET'S MAKE IT TODAY.

GOD BLESS!
copyrighted 1995
DORIS

'A RAINBOW OF HOPE' Poem to follow on my next post.

Greetings Friends,

Today as I was listening and discerning as to what to pen today, I thought of the different aspects on my journey early on in my diagnosis of RSDS/CRPS.  I will share a poem that I have written titled, 'A Rainbow of Hope' in my next post. Without Hope, there isn't a beginning nor an end.  There is just this tremendous loss and/or hole, if you will.  Therefore, I feel it is vital to have Hope for everything and anything in our life and living.

Please note that I experienced many things to help me adjust, learn, cope and grow during these 20 plus years with RSDS/CRPS.  I searched out many things to help myself for the physical, mental, spiritual and in the nutritional aspect to mend, heal and complete the 'whole' of my entire being.  Body, Mind and Spirit effects all areas of ones body for complete healing and maintenance.   

Therefore, as I strive to help others in sharing my experiences, I will try to relate as to what I feel and know in my heart is/was important. The first thing one needs to be aware of is when we are hurting we must be 'open' and 'willing' to help ourselves in allowing other people into our life during this time, especially, in the beginning of your diagnosis, unprofessional and others.   

I feel this applies to any facet of life's struggles.  I believe that God designed us this way. Everybody needs support through caring and love.  I am sure that some reading this that know me finds this surprising as I am and have been a private person and still am in many areas of my life.  And, I still feel that is my choice and I haven't wavered from that.  I am speaking of real life trauma struggles and times we cannot help ourselves and than 'in turn' to help others in making a real difference. 
I am not speaking of the 'gossip' or 'facebook chattering' that we see from time to time that at the end of the day serves no good purpose.  This is just my choice and opinion in sharing.  I felt that I needed to clarify this for anybody that might be reading my post and have taken this in an incorrect fashion. 

Nevertheless,  this is where I decide to begin my post for today.  And, as I progressed into better days,  I chose to pen the poem, A Rainbow of Hope.  I feel that all of the people in the world cannot reach, help and/or support another unless the person that is hurting is willing to listen and see and/or search/believe in HOPE. 

Remember, I shared that after I found out my diagnosis in Houston, TX, I was on this airplane flight coming back to my home town of Evansville, IN, alone?  I had time to think, to panic, to fear, to sink into a place where I could not see nor feel Hope. 

However, I had already heard a friend share with me what HOPE can do.  I remember looking out of the airplane's window and flying midst the clouds, my mind drifted and I pulled out a pencil and paper and drew a little girl's picture.  This little girl was frail, she had no jacket that fit her, her cuffs were folded up very uneven, her tennis shoes were untied, dragging on the ground and she looked lost.  This was my image of 'me'.  I had penciled in this little girl that was lost, in pain and knew she needed HOPE.   

I penciled just beneath her picture the name of 'HOPE'.  And, as this awakening experience was unfolding before my eyes, beside her picture I penned these words:
I will begin my life on Purpose.  Her name, Hope, reminds me that all things happen for good when we reflect upon our Hope in the Divine and go within to tap into our resources to live our Life to the Fullest in a Way That is Divinely Meant To Be.

'A RAINBOW OF HOPE' follows in my next post.


God Bless!
Doris

Sunday evening

Hi Friends,

I am sharing with anybody that wants to read my posts.  Some of the things that I write is positive and some is just reality that I feel is important to reflect on and learn how to cope and accept in our life and living.

I am sure we all have heard the statement: It doesn't take long to look around us and see somebody worse off than we are.  Have you ever heard this? I have and I have felt this.

I am grateful for what RSD has taught/is teaching me.  I feel that I have learned volumes about life and living and if RSD had not crossed my path, I wouldn't be the person that I am today.
I can honestly say that I enjoy my life and living and from hence I have come.  Pain, sorrow, lessons, setbacks; yes, but I am a more rounded, deeper caring, spiritual person now. 

I read somewhere that if you walked into a place and there was a huge table with crosses all over it and each cross represented your burdens/crosses to bear in life, that you would most likely pick up the one that was your cross/burdens in the first place.  It is good that we have no control of what comes our way.  I feel and believe that there is a 'higher power' greater than ourselves that knows what is best for our journey in life. 

Now, perhaps, what we can do to make those burdens/crosses lighter would be to reflect/focus on what they might mean to have crossed our path and learn from them.  Just maybe, they were put in our path for us to slow down and listen within as to what it is that this 'cross' is trying to teach me.  Sometimes we need to refocus and go down a different path on our journey. 

I remember many years ago now when I was diagnosed with RSDS/CRPS that I was just doing my thing. I didn't think too much about what was going to be happening in the future.  Just living my life and enjoying most of it, with my ten year old daughter.  I was a single parent with a good job and enjoying my work. 

And, than one day, it all changed.  Trauma from a previous surgery started to tailspin and that is when RSDS/CRPS entered my life and living.  The only thing that I really knew that I wanted was to survive as a good mother for my daughter for I was a single parent.  I HAD TO WORK AND I HAD A PURPOSE BESIDES MYSELF.  After crying the 'why me' and started focusing through support.  The 'Why Me' changed to 'Why Not Me'. My family, neighbors, church family and my work family were awesome!

I just want to say that I would never have made it to where I am now if I would have tried to handle RSD on my own.  EVERYBODY NEEDS SUPPORT.  RSDS/CRPS persons need support when all that they feel is  PAIN.  Empathy from another is the first step in healing.  Sympathy got me nowhere.  I wanted somebody to understand me and NOT feel sorry for me. And, if they haven't experienced RSD, they can still be there in love, caring and allowing you to just 'BE in the Moment'.  That heals and comforts pain.

You know, sometimes it is hard to cope and share and even get up in the mornings but if we don't keep trying we cannot help ourselves or anybody else.

So, on those days that we find it so very hard to move, move anyways!  Yes, call somebody and share ANYTHING with somebody.  This is the first thing that I found that helped me the most from going into a depression.  And, even if you don't say a word other than, "Hi, this is ______, I am not having a good day."  And, your friend or whomever you have chosen to call will take care of the rest for awhile.  BUT, WE HAVE TO START TO MOVE AND TRY TO REACH OUT.  The rest will follow.  Believe me, I am not sharing anything that I haven't experienced myself.  I didn't/don't want to just hear stories that sound good.  I always wanted to hear the truth even when it hurt. 

If I could wish anything today that I could say or do to help any person in pain but especially, to RSDS/CRPS persons since having RSDS has inspired me to start my blog; it would be to first and foremost, search for a purpose to live for, look for a passion to fulfill and keep your focus on something that is bigger than you are and/or your pain.  Take up a hobby and/or do something that fills your head/heart and life.  And, secondly, KEEP MOVING! 
I was told if I ever sit and did not move, I would be in a wheelchair the rest of my life.  I truly believe this because if I get the flu or I am off of my feet for days, I hurt and I know and reflect on what I was told.  WE MUST KEEP MOVING.

I worked for several years after my diagnosis of RSD.  The only reason that I could do this was because I had an awesome employer and I worked with some awesome co-workers.  I will never forget their support.  They allowed me to be an equal in the midst of my struggles and treated me the same as before I was diagnosed with RSD.  If any of you are reading this post, thanks, once again.  You all know who you are.  You're the best!
I remember having a button attached to the wall of my cubicle.   The button had a picture of a penguin on it.  The reading on it read: I can't fly but I get around just fine!  And, so DID I! 

Most importantly to remember, we can't go it alone.  It's ok to ask for help and than we all win.

Until next time,
God Bless!
Doris

Today is another day to enjoy, appreciate and be thankful in many ways.  

Let's all strive to have a better day in our hearts.  .  Each day we can strive to grow and learn and find peace in the midst of any storm.  And, if we can bond together and support one another, we will feel the glimmer of this Rainbow of Love.

I am going to list a few statements that certainly wasn't created by me.  However, I feel it is good to reflect on Things That Make Us Go Hmmmm!

• To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world.
• Sometimes the majority only means that all the fools are on the same side.
• Life is 10% of what happens to you, and 90% of how you respond to it.
• Real friends are those who, when you feel you've made a fool of yourself, don't feel you've done a permanent job.
• Life is like an onion; you peel off one layer at a time and sometimes you weep.
• There are two things I've learned: There is a God.  And, I'm not  Him.
• Following the path of least resistance is what makes rivers and men crooked.
• Learn from the mistakes of others.  You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.
• Lead your life so you won't be ashamed to sell the family parrot to the town gossip.
• Your worst days are never so bad that you are beyond the reach of God's grace. And your best days are never so good that you are beyond the need of God's grace.
• When it comes time to die...make sure all you got to do is die.
• Going to church does not make you a Christian anymore than going to McDonald's makes you a hamburger.
• People gather bundles of sticks to build bridges they never cross.
• I don't have to attend every argument I'm invited to.
• Did it ever occur to you that nothing occurs to God?
• A coincidence is when God performs a miracle, and decides to remain anonymous.

Until next time,  remember we are all in this together. 
God Bless!
Doris

February 23, 2013

TIME FOR CLARIFICATION

I find a need to clarify my writings regarding RSDS/CRPS.  FIRST, and far most, my wish is for anybody reading my posts to realize that anything on my posts are coming from my view and experiences.  My only intent in taking this leap of faith in sharing, as I am not usually this bold in the public eye, is my hope to help somebody in some way. 

As one reads my posts, they will read many emotions and ups and downs regarding this condition called RSDS/CRPS.  I pen as I think, feel and have experienced at variable times during these 25 years that I have been diagnosed with RSDS/CRPS.

This last post where I penned the poem RSDS/CRPS PERSONS were written from the view of a person that has been going through terrific pain and this is their thoughts and feelings expressed.  The latter part of the poem is written from the view and feelings from a person that has RSDS/CRPS but has allowed it to become a part of their life and have learned skills and is leaning on a higher power than themselves to cope.  They are living a life that they see is worth while and on purpose. 

I will not linger in my clarifications of the posts but just wanted to share this as there might be persons out there reading these and have a misunderstanding of the intent in my heart as to why/what I am writing.  I feel this is worthwhile in penning because I do not want to leave any room for any help to be missed or interruption in the flow of my intent. 

Life is better or worse many times in the way we make our choices and accept what we have no control over.  I feel when we are willing to always and ever think and act beyond ourselves and look for ways to help others in the process of living, the rest will fall into place.  Hopefully, at the end of our journey, we will have come full circle.

Have a thankful day. I know that I am.
God Bless!
Doris

'A RAINDROP, A ROSE, THE SPIRIT'

December 07, 2012                      A Raindrop, A Rose, The 'Spirit'

Today is a rainy day.  Today is gloomy outdoors. Today is great for the Soil. Today is great for  the Soul.

What do these statements really mean?  Do we say things that have two meanings in our everyday journey?  Do we say things to others that seem to feel good within ourselves instead of seeing how it affects their heart and mind?  

I realize in my last post, that I stated some pointed sentences for RSDS/CRPS persons and anybody with Pain.  This is why I ponder in some of my writings for I want to be positive in the midst of  'Pain' at the same time.  On the other hand, I want to be honest in sharing my experiences and convey that my journey has not been an easy one but there can be joy and happiness in the midst of living with RSDS/CRPS.  The more I read and experience God's wonderful Grace and Love, I feel Hope in all circumstances that come my way.  And, you know, HE has promised us Hope and an everlasting Love when we trust and give ourselves to Him in all ways and in all things. 

God understands our hopes, our fears, and our temptations.  He understands what it means to be angry. He knows the heart, the conscience and our struggles.  And God has a plan that is intended for you. 

Barbara Johnson said it well as she said, "You have to look for the joy.  Look for the light of God that is hitting your life, and you will find sparkles you didn't know were there."

As we reflect on whatever one chooses to reflect on, it becomes a part of our thinking process and this reflects on ones' attitude.  During the times of my greatest RSDS/CRPS pain, I tried to focus and reflect on the positive. This was a very difficult thing to do.  Because when I hurt, all that I could think of was Pain.  It seemed to me that everything I tried to do become a domino effect on something else and this seemed to consume me.  Therefore,  after a lot of searching in many of the areas that I have already mentioned in past posts, I begin to match a negative with a positive.  Little by little, I was thinking more positive and my life was becoming more pleasant for me and the people around me.  I was coping with my Pain much better.  Does it take the pain away? Not totally, but it does help one to cope differently and it allows God's love to be felt in a way that gives one hope and love.  This, in itself, helps anybody in any circumstance. 

The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; the God of my strength, in whom I will trust.  2 Samuel 22:2-3 NKJV

In closing, I will share one of my poems that I wrote during a time in my life God revealed to me Hope in that all things are divinely meant to be for a reason.  The poem reveals that sometimes things that we think, feel, see and say is in the eyes of the beholder.  This will make a big difference in how we relate and react to others.  May we all be sensitive in giving and receiving in helping ourselves and others on this journey of life and how we choose to live it. We are all God's children.
               
                 'A RAINDROP, A ROSE, THE SPIRIT'

                        Is a Raindrop just a raindrop?
                        Is a Rose just a rose?
                        God is the great creator,
                        Or is this just something we've been told?    

                        Loving  words doesn't cost us a cent
                       As we journey up the hill of life.
                       All human kin become stronger
                       And braver for the strife.

                       A heart full of thankfulness,
                       A patient trust with one another.
                       A soul of simple hopefulness
                       Join us 'one in spirit', like no other.
                 
                       It doesn't take very much to touch one.
                       Sometimes it's just, 'being YOU'
                       That warms the heart of another
                       And brings forth new hope in them and you, too.

                       Is a Raindrop just a raindrop and is a Rose just a rose?
                       Or, will they thrive and never be in vain?
                       Perhaps, the person we are meant to become
                       Will unfold and all mankind will gain.

                       May we take the time to speak a loving word?
                       Maybe it will linger in one's mind.
                       Like unspoken dreams will never grow old.
                       Loving words will gather others of its' kind.

                       To know in one's heart
                       'All is well', 'in thou soul' and in the night. 
                       To vision---'the infinite',
                       There can be no lovelier sight.

                                   2003 copyright Doris Swertfeger                                                 

THEORIES OF RSDS/CRPS

Good Day, 

I trust if you are still reading my blog that I haven't lost your interest on the subject of RSDS/CRPS.

I feel that it is very important to focus on the positive regarding this condition but it is good to understand as much about it as we can, as well.  Once we know to some degree what we are dealing with, than real progress in our perception can begin. It will help depression, especially.  Since information on this condition is so limited in the professional field, discouragement and disappointment is the first thing a person will hear in the midst of severe pain.  Than if a person is fortunate enough to find a doctor that knows/understands RSDS/CRPS, his treatment and prognosis at its' best, isn't a good one.  Such thoughts as: what am I going to do, there is no cure, my life is over, how am I going to keep my job and etc will fill you with despair. 

This is why I started my blog sharing my experiences as to where I am today and going backwards.  There is hope, there are better days and there are answers and help for the pain.

I will pen some theories about how RSDS/CRPS works.  This information is somewhat complex and nobody can say that this is definitely the way RSDS/CRPS works but it is the best that many researchers know. It can get very technical and difficult to explain. Some of the information for this writing comes from a Dr. Schwartzman's presentation at the RSDS Association many years ago, now. There are many articles on this subject but it is still unknown in many ways as to what causes it and how to treat it.

The Spinal Cord is where it is all happening.  Pain is carried through the spinal cord and research on RSDS/CRPS has shown that many different chemical reactions change the cells in the spinal cord causing the pain of RSDS/CRPS to become Sympathetically Independent rather than being dependent on the sympathetic nervous system.  This is why the doctors do know that spinal cord simulators and intrathecal pumps with morphine can lessen the pain and stop the changes in the cells that RSDS/CRPS pain can precipitate.  However, these types of treatment aren't for every person with RSDS/CRPS.

My doctor explained through an illustration as to how RSDS/CRPS reacts in comparison to your spinal cord and nerves to an electrical pole and lightening striking the pole.  When the lightening hits the pole and doesn't stop striking it...it sparks until the lightening stops hitting the pole.  When the nerves misfire, pain travels through the spinal cord...it sends a signal to the brain: of burning pain.  The burning pain goes on and on until the nerves are treated with something.  This is one reason it is hard to believe that the RSDS/CRPS pain is coming from someplace else rather than the site of injury.  The enemy is trauma.  The Spinal Cord has no clue as to that the trauma is...Trauma of some sort has lingered in ones' body for too long without treatment.  When this happens, havoc takes place because the alignment of the nerves, neurons affecting the Spinal Cord is in disarray.  The rest is what makes the terrible burning pain.  If the Spinal Cord is not working correctly, the flow of fluids/blood does not reach the injured area, such as a foot, arm or limb. Therefore, given no treatment to correct this interruption, atrophy sets in and bones begin to thin and muscle begins to weaken and the cycle continues to repeat itself over and over until treatment comes to its' aid.  This is why IMMEDIATE treatment from the first sight of any of the symptoms listed in various posts that I have written are vital to stop this cycle. Than, hopefully, treatment can begin for proper blood flow to prevent further damage. There is promise and hope at this point. 

My 'time frame' before diagnosis of RSDS was two years.  However, once I found out my problem and that there was some help for me; whatever the protocol was, I was thrilled because I had no HOPE before I walked through that particular doctor's door on that particular day.  Whatever it took for me to help the professionals, counselor, pastor, biofeedback, imagery, Spinal Cord Stimulation Implant, TENS unit, over 30 pain blocks in my back, given over 35 prescription drugs, hallucinations, social security disability and going through a near death experience; I knew that I had found a doctor that was going to treat this terrible burning pain.  And, this doctor knew the cause of the pain and what it was.

I was going to have an opportunity to have my life back to the point of  'living it' in a way that I could feel and experience hope.  I did not have that before that day and I didn't have to think or go any further at that time in my thoughts.  All of the above that I listed for treatment are the very things that I experienced to get to where I am now.  And, above all and most importantly was God's Grace, Love, Hope and Prayers. My church family, my family and friends were amazing, as well..

The long term issues that are the result of my RSDS/CRPS are still in my life from time to time.  This is why I have been told and believe that this condition can go into remission.  There are various things that will cause it to rear it's ugly head as quickly as one would see a snake in the grass.  Nevertheless,  I know that I have a life worth living and I am very fortunate to be where I am today. 

I have accepted the fact that this is my journey in life.  I can't change what is and it is a simple fact that sickness affects the immune system, anything that limits my activity/exercises, a sudden trauma and/or exhaustion can kick the RSDS/CRPS back in some form.  Again, it might be a much lighter cause of pain but the RSDS/CRPS still tries to stir up the burning pain, in my case, my feet and legs.  If I have a need to walk a long distance, my legs will become very fragile, weak and have a tendency to wobble a bit.  I have a power scooter for those times.  Otherwise, I need to walk everyday.  The doctor told me that if I stop climbing stairs and walking, I will be in a wheelchair.  So, guess what?  You got it, I walk, I climb stairs everyday.  Anything that affects the system's spinal cord of misfiring neurons/nerves takes a toll on RSDS/CRPS persons.  I have peripheral neuropathy and a few other physical conditions that are a spin off of RSDS/CRPS but I can function and I enjoy life.  I just can't do some things that other people can and/or take for granted.  But, we all do this everyday to some degree.  I feel most of us can look around and see how blessed we are.

Family is vital in ones' support.  My husband has been my 'rock'.  He is always supporting me in some way whether it is helping me to slow down or giving me a push to stay active for my continual maintenance. This takes none of my time but all of my time. It is a paradox.  Finding the balance in all areas, physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, is the key. 

I have learned volumes in ways that I would have never known without experiencing this special 'school of learning of RSDS/CRPS'.  For some reason that I probably will never know, God allowed this is cross my path on my journey.  Now, my mission is in helping other RSDS/CRPS persons.

As I close for tonight, I have chosen a prayer of Grace.  First, I wish to share something that I heard a lady speaking at a conference say one day. She was the chosen speaker for this particular conference.  She began by sharing that her husband was on dialysis and on the waiting list for a kidney transplant.  He was having a very difficult day and on that particular day he said to his wife, "I feel sorry for us!'.  This was her reply, "well, you can if you want to, but just remember, it won't help us and we will never be able to help anybody else!' 

Prayer of Grace
Dear Lord, You are the Creator of the universe, and I know that Your plan for my life is grander than I can imagine.  Let Your purposes be my purposes, and let me trust in the assurance of Your promises.  Amen


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