Bad News
I've had nothing but bad news this week from the doctors. I feel like the VA is playing Russian roulette with my PTSD meds. Today they put me on 1 mgm of Xanax (as needed for anxiety) and 10 mgm of Valuim (bedtime because Ambien was causing problems with dreams). How do they expect people to be able function? I sure can't take this and work.
Next I get the results of a scrotal ultrasound and examination by a urologist. What was initially being treated as epididymatis turns out to be cysts that are linked to prostatitis. The urologist thinks the underlying cause might be linked to my Lupus.
For the final blow, my MRI shows I have a 5mm tumor on my pituitary gland. My primary care doctor is referring me to endocrinology. They think I might have Cushings syndromone. WTF!!!
I'm pissed. I'm scared. I'm falling apart
Stay strong big guy. Be as big of an ass you need to be, but don't let anyone leave your sight until they explain things to the point that you can understand. I hate seeing patients who are just tossed to the wind in the healthcare system. Confused, angry, fearful; none of which needs to be the case. You are your own best advocate for your care, so don't take no for an answer.
Is there any way you can get some second opinions? I am so skeptical of the VA because of the inadequate treatment they gave my Dad when he was still alive.
Have you recently been on corticosteroids? This is what causes Cushings syndrome. Discontinuation of the drug should alleviate the symptoms.
I have PTSD and my clinic has prescribed me an anti-depressant (paxil) and seroquel (a sort of anti-psychotic). I take the seroquel at bedtime and it allows me to sleep. Anti-anxiety agents are only the third line of defense against PTSD. Some researchers feel that they ultimately make PTSD worse! I take clonezapam if I feel I have an anxiety attack coming on.
You need to be your own advocate - especially with the VA. Research your diagnosis and find out what the most accepted treatments are. Make a list of all your questions and concerns and demand that your doctor address these issues for you, no matter how busy he may think he is.
Being pro-active will help your outlook a lot.
Hope your health issues are resolved soon and not as bad as they seem to you tonight.
..a scrotal ultrasound and examination by a urologist...
That sounds, uh,
fun?:unsure:
Try not get ahead of yourself, docs are always scaring the shit outta people. I think they get off on it.
:comfort:
Bullitt is right on the money make sure you get complete explanations. You can use the internet to your advantage here as well. I'm sorry you're going through this. Is there an advocacy organization for dealing with the VA?
Sheesh Sarge. :(
Take care of yourself.
Oh Sarge, I'm sorry. I echo what Bullitt said, keep on at them until you get the answers you need, don't let them play God even if it means you have to get pissy with them.
All I know is when I tried Xanax "as needed" I took one quarter the dosage you have there, and in about an hour I was asleep in the middle of the day. It affects everyone differently but 0.25mg is the starter dose for adults, so if they knock you out, try cutting the pill in half and see if it controls your anxiety effects. Shoot for the smallest dose that controls the symptoms. The Xanax will take a half hour to kick in, so don't be impatient with your anxiety in the mean time.
Also Xanax and Valium are in the same general family of drugs, so I don't understand why they gave you both. I wouldn't take them at the same time.
Thinking good, healthy thoughts for you.
Ugh, sorry. Hope you have a trusted family member or friend who can help you as an advocate.
knowledge is power sarge,
www.medlineplus.gov
Eat that elephant one bite at a time.
We are here for you big guy!
Eat that elephant one bite at a time.
:lol2:
take heart Big Sarge~! One thing/day/test/doctor at a time, my friend. Keep us posted and we are here for you! :hugs:
Loads of support here!!
Oh crikey Sarge.
Sorry to hear that, it must feel overwhelming.
As many wiser Dwellars have said - one step at a time, one bite at a time, one test at a time. Much and much and much love to you.
I shouldn't whine. Things could be worse. Ref the Xanax, I have been prescribed .25 & .5 mgm in the past. Never seemed to work. the bright side. I'm trying to look on the bright side. When this tumor is gone, I might have a halfway normal life again.
thoughts are with ya big guy! take a day off, grab a fishin' pole and go catch a mess of fish. take yer mind off things for a bit anyway :)
grab a fishin' pole and go catch a mess of fish. take yer mind off things for a bit anyway :)
Damn, what a great idea!! It's 75 degrees and beautiful here. Ima do that very thing.
I'm going fishing on the creekbank, and
Ima leave the fishin' pole at home!! [SIZE="1"](you know, so the fish won't bother me!)[/SIZE]
Later tater.:blunt:
Sorry to hear you are going through all that Sarge. Hang in there!
I shouldn't whine. Things could be worse.
Sure, things could always be worse but doesn't mean that you don't need to let people know and talk about it. SG articulated what I would like to have thought of.
I agree with bullitt and UT especially and wish you well.
Hugs to you sarge.
And for some unsolicited advice ... ask your doc what he/she knows about beta-blockers and PTSD.
I'm trying to look on the bright side.
I believe this is very important. Try not to worry and keep your spirits up as well as you can. Sending lots of good thoughts your way!
i really don't understand what is going on with my body. something happened with my first deployment in oif. since then i contracted discoid lupus, had 2 bouts of sarcoma, disc compression (iba syndrome), bilateral tremors, ptsd, neuropathy, 3 rounds of pneumonia, epididydmal cysts, and a tumor on my pituatary gland. ya'll, i'm starting to think i'm not going to be around much longer. i know that is a stupid thought, but something is really wrong.
i wonder if i was exposed to some agent or chemical while doing a sensitive site exploitation
Are you in touch with other guys from your unit who are having similar problems?
maybe i'm a little tired or my grey hair is actually blonde, but what is oif?
maybe i'm a little tired or my grey hair is actually blonde, but what is oif?
operation iraqi liberation OIL. ermm, freedom! OIF
ah ok then. yep. i'm tired.
Any exposure to DU?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depleted_uranium
There is that and the stressful environment and the vaccinations and whatever Hussein's people were (mis) handling. A possible perfect storm of nastiness.
i really don't understand what is going on with my body. something happened with my first deployment in oif. since then i contracted discoid lupus, had 2 bouts of sarcoma, disc compression (iba syndrome), bilateral tremors, ptsd, neuropathy, 3 rounds of pneumonia, epididydmal cysts, and a tumor on my pituatary gland. ya'll, i'm starting to think i'm not going to be around much longer. i know that is a stupid thought, but something is really wrong.
i wonder if i was exposed to some agent or chemical while doing a sensitive site exploitation
That's a lot of illness so definitely all well and good to stay positive, but in the interests of realism, keep on seeking out as much info as you can so that if you have been exposed to an agent or chemical, there's a better chance of finding out what is was and what can be done. Keep on posting as well.
depleted uranium is a possibility. i've asked the va about it, but they seem to ignore. I've considered exposure to nerve agents. i've been in numerous destroyed vehicles and old ammunition dumps.
i was at the ent today. they put a wick in my right ear and gave me a shot of celestrone. i'm barely functioning at times and i'm worried about my job
holy crap man. i don't even know what to say. are they (the va) being hush hush or are they confused to your problem? i guess what i mean is do they know that there is a problem and are being told to put it under wraps? kinda what griff said...
Are you in touch with other guys from your unit who are having similar problems?
what he said here.
I am sorry you are going through so much, Sarge. I really hope you get some decent answers here, pretty soon.
Sarge I'm so sorry to hear things are so bad.
All yo9u can do is keep trying to get through the best you can.
Healing thoughts.
i've lost touch with the other analyst who served in a similar capacity. he left the army and moved to ohio. from the guys who served as our psd, only one is still serving and he seems to be doing well.
the va is just there. they try hard to take care of us, but the system is overwhelmed with the number of returning soldiers. all soldiers receive 5 years of va care upon return from deployment or discharge. look how long it took to identify agent orange and gulf war syndrome. i'm just stuck in the system.
i feel like there is a root cause to my illness that can be fixed if someone would look at the totality vs specialists treating things as separate diseases. plus they are very "generous" with meds. too generous at times and i worry about the potential for addiction.
We pray for your health & hope you become at peace with yourself. We, the collective, support you
i've lost touch with the other analyst who served in a similar capacity. he left the army and moved to ohio. from the guys who served as our psd, only one is still serving and he seems to be doing well.
the va is just there. they try hard to take care of us, but the system is overwhelmed with the number of returning soldiers. all soldiers receive 5 years of va care upon return from deployment or discharge. look how long it took to identify agent orange and gulf war syndrome. i'm just stuck in the system.
i feel like there is a root cause to my illness that can be fixed if someone would look at the totality vs specialists treating things as separate diseases. plus they are very "generous" with meds. too generous at times and i worry about the potential for addiction.
That someone is you. You have to be your own advocate and educate yourself, then tell the docs what to look for. You are more invested in you than they can or will be. You can do it. And avoid the addictive meds.
True. I'm reading everything I can find on Cushings.
Which VA are you going to? Can you come down to the big hospital in Jackson?
Jackson may not be any better than where ever. Best whishes Sarge.
Go to Zennys East ( Just down the road from there ) Get a rubin on marbled rye bread , it'll make ya feel Betterer !!! ;)
Jackson may not be any better than where ever.
I wasn't sure which center he was going to. Some of the ones out in the sticks are less than stellar. That's why I asked. :)
But, Memphis is probably pretty good, except that I imagine they see quite a few veterans.
@zippy: If he wants to feel REAL good he could go to the Pink Pony. ;)
he could go to the Pink Pony
Well thats the desert After the god sando
the medical center here in houston might be able to help sarge. and if you need a place to stay, mi casa es tu casa.
thanks guys. i'm pretty much stuck in the the va system because of medical costs. my insurance is tricare reserve and only pays 80%. the va treats me for free for anything that is service related
thanks guys. i'm pretty much stuck in the the va system because of medical costs. my insurance is tricare reserve and only pays 80%. the va treats me for free for anything that is service related
is there a way you can see a non-va doc, if they can show it is service-related it will be responsibility of the gov to pay? Even if you have to pay initial costs and get reimbursement, it would be worth it for quality of care?
is there a way you can see a non-va doc, if they can show it is service-related it will be responsibility of the gov to pay? Even if you have to pay initial costs and get reimbursement, it would be worth it for quality of care?
Unfortunately no. They have a system and force you to use it.
This is going to be fun!! I took my last dose of Celexa (primary PTSD med) yesterday. My refills weren't in the mail today. So I'm going from 60mgm a day to nothing. Ya'll better pray for the folks who piss me off today. LOL
Bad news indeed.
When I moved to Aylesbury I couldn't get registered with a Doctor without photo ID. I has to wait until my driving licence came back with my Aylesbury address.
Hello!
I'm on anti-depressants?!
They've run out....
Although it worked out well in the end.
My new practice switched me to Citalopram and I'm a shiny new version of myself because of it.
I'll keep everything crossed that you get them on Monday.
I'm sure they'll stay in your system that long.
I hope.
Celexa & Citalopram are the same drug. I'll hop in the car & drive over to bum a few from you. LOL
Give it time.
It's really helped me.
And yes, when it happens it's mind-blowing :)
or shall I come over and blow it for yo9u?
omg, see now you've started the wild fantasies racing through my head. sg you can be so naughty
SG has "healing hands" and Big Sarge is "nude". y'all? get a room! and don't come out for a month. :D
I want to be a sex pot like SG.
I've gotten to the point that I can't handle things. I'm about to call the Military One Source hotline. Today's doctor was Chinese & spoke poor English. In fact, she had to use a translation phrase book & pointed out things for me to read. Now they're thinking my levels were skewed because of the prednisone, 3 shots of decadron, and a shot of Celestrone (however you spell it) in a 2 week period. Now she thinks I have Addison's. Isn't that the exact opposite? Why can't sher get me in to see Endo???
Still no PTSD meds & now I'm out of HCTZ & my Beta blocker. Doctor says they are sorry. They called the pharmacy (express scripts) & I should have received it on 31MAR11. If it isn't here in 2 weeks, they'll try to re-issue. WTF!!!
Yes, I'm raging. I know there is nothing that can be done, but I can't keep going like this
Can you get free legal representation on vet related issues? And if so, can you use it here?
Still no meds. Sigh. I'm trying to compensate with alcohol mixed with benzodiazepams when I'm off duty. Sometimes I add a little benadryl and melatonin to the vodka. I can get 5 or 6 hours of sleep this way.
Can you just go and sit in their office 'til they bring you some meds or a script you an get filled?
You have the option of going to an ER and getting the refill that way.
... much better plan than booze/pills combo.
Well I'm screwing up things all the way around in my life. I'm afraid some of my posts under a different username came across pissy especially to SG. It was just the other day I was ugly to Tulip. I can't explain myself well enough in the politics thread well enough so that a dwellar could realize I wasn't trying to be a troll.
I'm barely hanging on to my job because of missing so much work. The Guard wants to medically discharge me. I give 3/4 of my income to my kids so I'm in a downward financial spiral. Go to the ER? Do you have any idea how much that would cost me let alone trying to have prescriptions filled in the private sector?
I ran out of Monopril today. I have no meds for PTSD, tremors, or hypertension. No meds for the adrenal glands. I have to wait 2 more weeks and then they will reorder for lost prescriptions.
I come across here as bitchy or mean most of the time. The rest of the time I act like a pathetic whiner. I'm trying to say I'm doing nothing but embarassing myself on here.
i'm hurting. I'm tired. A lot of things aren't worth it anymore. I've had some good friends on here and I just wish I could have met you in person. Sorry
Sarge, don't go, we're not pissed with you, really.
Does the VA have an ER? surely PTSD is service-related?
Don't you even think about giving up Sarge! They didn't train you to do that did they soldier?
Just keep on keeping on. Things will get better, and you're not alone. There's always someone around here and anyone would be glad to chat whenever you're feeling down. Focus on the future and getting your health back. Don't dwell on the fact that you don't have it now.
sarge? i know things are rough right now and what i'm about to say you have heard yourself before i'm sure. keep your chin up and fight brother! no matter how bad things get or seem, guess what? they can get/be worse. hell look at all the crap i went through these last 5 years and now the FAA tells me i'm not fit to fly planes because of a clerical error back in '02 when a dwi was dropped to reckless driving but the clerk entered both and now i have to pay to fix it? if it's not one thing sarge, it's another. chin up chest out and fight man! only you can win your battles and your war will end. if not tomorrow or next week, it will end. give it time. you'll see!
Sarge, don't go, we're not pissed with you, really.
Don't you even think about giving up Sarge! They didn't train you to do that did they soldier?
Just keep on keeping on. Things will get better, and you're not alone. There's always someone around here and anyone would be glad to chat whenever you're feeling down. Focus on the future and getting your health back. Don't dwell on the fact that you don't have it now.
I can't express it any better than what Monster and Ali have so will just say that I'd second what they've said.
Sarge I honestly don't see you as pissy or a whiner.
You're having a bloody hard time right now and I wish I was closer, or at least another Dwellar was closer and could give yo0u practical help.
Please keep holiding on. The desperate state can't last forever.
I'm sorry I can only wrote words, it's not enough help.
And all I can say is I'm thinking of you and worrying about you.
I hope some of the advice from American Dwellars can give more practical assistance.
I'm worrying about the potential government shutdown and the effect on VA services.
Go to the ER at Jackson VA. Just be there early, around 7:30. But if you don't have a primary care Dr. in VA system, VA id I don't know.
I must have a pile of post on the Cellar about me and the VA. Good Luck Sarge.
But, can you say Affirmative action?
Monster, last I heard no effect on VA.
Hey guys. Don't know if I told you or not. My PSA was 2.59 (good) and my biopsy was good. Strictly a chronic infection in the prostate. I'm still on Bactrim until May 18th.
Other labs: my HGH and Cortisol were low. Testosterone is back in normal range, but I will stay on the shots every 2 weeks.
Yay! Good news in the Bad News thread :celebrat:
Now bad news. I tangled with a pit bull and lost today. The dog was evidently someone's pet, it had a nice collar. A woman had a bitch in heat in a chain link pen. This pit bull shows up and won't let the woman out of her house. I caught him with a catch pole and was loading him up when he bit me. He bit me more out of fear. Anyway, it is pretty minor but I have to take clindamycin for a week. Dog will be quarrantined for 10 days.
Oh no! Good thing the bite was minor, dog bites are not as likely as cat bites to get infected, but be careful anyway. Pits are scary when there is a female in heat nearby. Our next door neighbor's pit turned into a manic when we had a situation like that. We put it up in a heavy duty plastic crate (cuz it was 2am and the neighbors could or would not keep it contained) and it chewed its way out!
Now bad news. I tangled with a pit bull and lost today. I caught him with a catch pole and was loading him up when he bit me.
I wonder if this is karma for you recent posts ;)
[COLOR="White"]Dog bites are nasty glad this one was not serious[/COLOR]
Glad to hear you're doing okay.:)
now nirvana, do you really take those other posts seriously?
I knew your eyes were bad too Sarge[old sux :p:] you missed the white letters in the bottom of my post ;)
ahhhh ok. i see said the blind man pissing into the wind, it's all coming back to me now!
understand the rfn pic now! glad you're alright sarge!
3 foot? i lolled! glad it wasn't beer:30!
Ok. I have this Dyna-Flex4 lotion for the staph. Only problem is I live alone and I can't reach parts of my back where I'm supposed to spread it. Do you think the Wal-Mart greeter might slather me up if I ask nicely??
Ok. I have this Dyna-Flex4 lotion for the staph. Only problem is I live alone and I can't reach parts of my back where I'm supposed to spread it. Do you think the Wal-Mart greeter might slather me up if I ask nicely??
Probably not, but if you pay the hooker on the corner $5 she prob will...
I can honestly say there isn't any part of me that i can't reach to put creams and lotions on. No part of my back is unreachable :0
Have you tried putting a generous dod of said lotion on a long length of fabric, dangling it behind your head with one hand, reaching behind you and grasping said fabric (a towel, maybe?) with the other hand and then manoeuvring said length behind you so that said dod is near to offending parts, to which said dod of said lotion may be pressed by appropriate manoeuvres of said fabric?
[SIZE="1"][COLOR="White"]Or, more simply, put a blob on the floor and roll on it![/COLOR][/SIZE]:rollhappy
There's a commercial where a guy puts lotion all over a sliding glass door then rubs his back against it. Damned if I can find it. I'm almost sure it's a Kayak commercial.
you've been at the kinky pron channels again, haven't you?
No, unfortunately there is no Free Pron on Demand in my cable...ahem...package.
I like the idea of rolling around on the floor. I picture my neighbor or one of my officers popping by. There's Big Sarge naked rolling around the floor in goo. Sadly most of them wouldn't be shocked
Wish I was there to help rub it in!
When you say the dog is in quarantine, I assume this is simply for your benefit, to check it doesn't have rabies?
Or are dogs that attack human not automatically euthanised where you are?
Morethan - I've read a LOT about cat bites getting infected (not on here, I mean in the wider world) and it has never happened to me. My cat scratches swell up and itch immediately, but go down within two hours. I'd be more careful if they lasted. But just in this recent emergency with Diz (where I had to take him to the vet on Bank Holiday Monday) I got four or five deep punctures and two or three that at least broke the skin. They're still a little tender from the bruising, but I'm alive and well.
This is not to dispute that cats have horrid bacteria in their mouths - and it's from British magazines too - I'm just wondering if you have any personal experience?
As a complete aside, I've also noted in American films/ novels that people need anti-biotics because of scratches and cuts. And I have never in my whole life encountered this. Anyone?
I can honestly say there isn't any part of me that i can't reach to put creams and lotions on. No part of my back is unreachable :0
Making an off color joke would be like shooting fish in a barrel so I won't. But I am laughing at my randy cleverness.
As a complete aside, I've also noted in American films/ novels that people need anti-biotics because of scratches and cuts. And I have never in my whole life encountered this. Anyone?
Over here, one
needs anitbiotics if one just breathes near someone else's scratch :rolleyes:
Sundae, my problem is my immune system is "crap" thanks to these tumors. That's why I have developed staph even though I was on Bactrim and now taking clindamycin. I've got one spot on my chest that I'm worried is the start of MRSA. If so, I'll start posting some gruesome pics.
No joke. I do feel like I'm on a down hill slide. I have so many medical problems and the VA is so slow due to the volume they are dealing with.
According to
yesterday's ruling in the 9th circuit court of appeals:
"The VA's unchecked incompetence has gone on long enough; no more veterans should be compelled to agonize or perish while the government fails to perform its obligations,"
This related to mental illness, (PTSD) but I think the quote from the court's ruling applies here too.
I think everyone recalls my burn out here last month when I couldn't get my PTSD meds and I had just learned of the tumors. I give the VA credit for trying. I believe they are totally overwhelmed
Mission Accomplished?
Budget cuts at Walter Reed the real problem
The problems at the Walter Reed VA hospital are not the fault of the doctors, the nurses, the janitors, or even the just fired administrator.
The problem all goes back to the Oval office and George W Bush.
All wars have their “signature” injuries: Shell shock in world War I, Agent Orange poisoning in Vietnam and PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The “signature” injury from Iraq is brain damage.
A staggering 83% of wounded Marines and sailors in the Iraq war are suffering from temporary or permanent brain damage.
President Bush’s response? In his 2006 budget he announced he would eliminate a $9 million treatment program for people with Traumatic Brain Injury.
Doctors say the proportion of head injuries is higher in Iraq than in past wars partly because roadside bombs and suicide car bombs are often the weapons of choice for insurgents. Also, recent advances in body armor and helmets mean that troops caught in blasts often live but can be jolted so badly by the shock wave that their brains are injured by smacking against the inside of their skulls.
Walter Reed Army Hospital
Physicians at Walter Reed Army Medical Center have surveyed all returning soldiers injured in explosions, vehicle accidents, falls and gunshot wound to the face, neck or head.
They found evidence of TBI in 60%. In 2003 there were 437 cases of TBI, with slightly more than half showing permanent brain damage. Results at other military medical centers are similar.
The HRSA money is directed to help cash-strapped states prevent traumatic brain injury, improve rehabilitation outcomes through research, strengthen and improve State systems to better serve individuals with traumatic brain injury and their families, and advocate for and protect the rights of individuals with traumatic brain injury and their families. In other words, the kind of programs that help discharged veterans with TBI. Like this person:
In severe cases, victims must relearn how to walk and talk. "It's like being born again, literally," says Sgt. Edward "Ted" Wade, 27, a soldier with the 82nd Airborne Division who lost his right arm and suffered TBI in an explosion last year near Fallujah. Today, he sometimes struggles to formulate a thought, and his eyes blink repeatedly as he concentrates. They can't spend $9 million for this but they can spend $209 million for abstinence education that doesn't work.
While the costs of medical care go up and up all Bush will do is slash his budgets.
Increases health care costs for 1 million veterans.
For the fifth year in a row, the budget raises health care costs on 1.3 million veterans, imposing $4.9 billion in increased co-payments on prescription drugs and new enrollment fees on veterans over ten years.
Last year, the Administration estimated that these policies would drive 200,000 veterans out of the VA health care system. It would double the co-payment for prescription drugs from $8 to $15, and impose an enrollment fee of up to $750 a year for category 7 and 8 veterans. These veterans make as little as $27,790.
These proposals have been rejected in previous years.
Increases health care costs for military retirees/shortchanges military health care.
The budget proposes unspecified cuts in military health care totaling $2 billion in FY 2008 and $14 billion over five years.
Last year, the President’s budget proposed to increase TRICARE health care premiums by up to $1,000 per year for 3.1 million of the nation's military retirees under 65 and increase pharmacy co-pays – resulting in similar savings.
If these proposals are rejected by Congress again this year, the budget could under fund military health care budget by more than $2 billion -- reducing access and quality of care for service members and their families.
Investments in veterans’ health care still fall short with veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The President’s budget continues to shortchange veterans’ health care, providing an increase in FY 2008, but with cuts in FY 2009 and 2010 (below the proposed FY 2008 level) and freezing funding for VA health care thereafter.
This generally flat funding is inadequate in light of the badly wounded troops returning from Iraq that could overwhelm the VA health care system. The cost of providing VA medical care has been growing by more than 10 percent in many years. Over five years, the budget cuts veterans’ health care by $3.4 billion (below the level need to keep up with inflation), according to CBO.
Budget may again underestimate the needs of returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The VA projects that it will serve only an additional 54,000 OIF/OEF veterans during FY 2008, but that could be 50,000 patients short of actual demand.[Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Staff, 2/05/07]
Since the beginning of the war, the VA has underestimated the number of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan in need of VA health care. “Two years ago, Congress had to pass an emergency $1.5 billion infusion for veterans’ health programs for 2005 and added $2.7 billion to Bush's request for 2006.” [Washington Post, 2/12/07]
Continues to deny VA health care for new (priority 8) veterans.
On January 17, 2003, the Bush Administration stopped enrolling new Priority 8 veterans for VA medical care, and the President’s budget continues this restrictive policy. This has prevented 1.6 million veterans, who make as little as $27,790, from enrolling in VA health care.
The Administration’s budget for mental health services is insufficient to meet growing needs of returning veterans from Iraq.
Army studies have shown that up to 30 percent of troops deployed to Iraq suffer from depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and some experts predict that the number eventually requiring mental health treatment could exceed 170,000. [Washington Post, 12/20/06, UPI, 1/27/06]
And yet, the President's budget calls for only about 6 percent more for mental health services for veterans’ than last year. It also fails to provide sufficient funds for staffing and training in the Veterans Benefits Administration to address a claims backlog that is quickly approaching one million. [Veterans of Foreign Wars press release, 2/5/07]
Cuts funding for medical and prosthetic research.
The budget cuts medical and prosthetic research by $2.7 million from the 2007 level and $15 million below the level needed to maintain purchasing power at the 2007 level.
This would set the research grant program back years, just as many of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are coming home with terrible injuries that require this expertise.
With Iraq veterans returning with devastating injuries, eliminates traumatic brain injury grants.
The Bush budget eliminates an important health program for traumatic brain injuries when over 1,500 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have suffered devastating brain injuries from IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices). This program funds statewide systems to ensure access to a range of comprehensive and coordinated TBI services, including transitional services, rehabilitation, education and employment, and long-term community support.
Per veteran health care spending has failed to keep pace with rising medical costs.
In 2007, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) expects to treat 5.8 million veterans – more than double the number in 1995. Instead of providing adequate funding, the Administration has requested an average increase over the last 6 years of only 3.4 percent, while the medical inflation rate has climbed nearly 5 percent per year. This lack of funding has resulted in health care rationing and an entire group of veterans denied access to the system.
The Bush budget fails to provide adequate resources to train those who work with veterans to secure employment, or to help veterans to become employed.
The President’s budget would decrease funding for grants for training programs and employment opportunities for veterans in high-skill occupations and flat-line grants to operate employment programs to reach out to homeless veterans and help them become employed.
Sources:
Brain injury budget faces cut
Terri's budget cuts
PRESIDENT’S BUDGET ON VETERANS: MORE OF THE SAME MISPLACED PRIORITIES -Office of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, February 13, 2007
3F - what Obama done for the VA since he took office? I honestly haven't checked, but I'm curious if anybody knows.
which sandbox operation were you in? my new co-worker was in O.I.F. found out he was a gunner on a humvee and took some shrapnel in his leg while there.....
OIF III & OIF IX; KFOR IX; Desert Shield/Storm
3F - what Obama done for the VA since he took office? I honestly haven't checked, but I'm curious if anybody knows.
President Barack Obama today proposed a $61.85 billion budget for discretionary spending on U.S. military veterans in fiscal year 2012, including $6 billion to treat troops who return from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars with post-traumatic stress disorders and brain injuries.
Lots more here:
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-14/budget-seeks-10-6-more-to-fight-veterans-trauma-homelessness.htmlMy ills seem pretty minor compared to other folks on here. I still have a rough prostate infection. They gave me a shot of rocephin and put me on doxycycline. I've been on antibiotics since Feb. Talk about staying sick at my stomach!
Had my eyes checked at the VA. While my vision has worsened, there is no change to my peripheral vision. That's good.
I have another MRI scheduled for Wednesday.
My ills seem pretty minor compared to other folks on here. I still have a rough prostate infection. They gave me a shot of rocephin and put me on doxycycline. I've been on antibiotics since Feb. Talk about staying sick at my stomach!
Had my eyes checked at the VA. While my vision has worsened, there is no change to my peripheral vision. That's good.
I have another MRI scheduled for Wednesday.
Minor?! I certainly wouldn't categorize them that way. That is a long time to have an infection, I hope it gets cleared up soon. Good luck with the MRI.
I've had nothing but bad news this week from the doctors. I feel like the VA is playing Russian roulette with my PTSD meds. Today they put me on 1 mgm of Xanax (as needed for anxiety) and 10 mgm of Valuim (bedtime because Ambien was causing problems with dreams). How do they expect people to be able function? I sure can't take this and work.
Next I get the results of a scrotal ultrasound and examination by a urologist. What was initially being treated as epididymatis turns out to be cysts that are linked to prostatitis. The urologist thinks the underlying cause might be linked to my Lupus.
For the final blow, my MRI shows I have a 5mm tumor on my pituitary gland. My primary care doctor is referring me to endocrinology. They think I might have Cushings syndromone. WTF!!!
I'm pissed. I'm scared. I'm falling apart
I also think so.
Went to Urology and I still can't shake my prostate issues. I finally get to see endo next week & they are supposed to assess growth and treatment changes/options. Two days after that I go back to Camp Shelby for awhile. I know I'm too sick, but I need the money & my unit really tries to look out for me.
I feel more & more like my back is up against the wall
that is a terrible feeling Sarge. I'm saddened to hear you feel that way, and that sucks about your health issues.
Moving forward, and surrounding yourself with your supportive friends is a good move. Makiing things better for your head makes things easier on your heart and on your body. Good luck man.
I am sorry you are going through this, Sarge. The med issues just suck. I hope you have some success with the endo and can start feeling better.
Hang in there Sarge. You got a lot of people who care around you. Let them do what they can.
Sarge: You know how I feel about you going to Camp Shelby, but I also understand love of a parent. Just remember to take care of yourself.
Try to avoid pushing yourself over the edge, man. At some point they're going to figure out you're too sick anyway, and you'll have to come up with another plan. Surely you have at least some level of pension built up by now, right?
horrible day. pain and swelling, even a low grade temp. it is so bad i considered trying to get to the VA emergency room, but it is almost 2 hours away. i'm trying to hold out till i go to endo on tuesday.
i have to admit my stuff is minor compared to busterb, mtp, and others here. i don't see how they manage so well. even the percocet just barely takes the edge off.
:( You are due for some relief I hope it comes your way soon.
Sarge, I don't know if you're a prayerful fellow, but I'll throw a few your way.
Good luck, man.
Oh Sarge, I'm so sorry to hear that.
Could someone else drive you to the emergency room?
This doesn't sound like something you should be going through alone.
I don't do prayers, but my thoughts are with you, for whatever that's worth x
Watch the funniest movie you can think of. Laughter is better for ya than ya might think. For dull pain, big barrels of laughter work better for me than low-grade painkillers.
Feel better Sarge.
Well, i'm fucked again. I'm caught in VA hell. My endo appointment was just bumped 2 weeks. Two more days and I head back to Camp Shelby. At least I can try sick call down there (for free), but I'm afraid the heat will do me in. My life is so, so fucked
Do your best. Or you can just stay home. :)
I can't stay home. I'm under orders. I'm trying to work today, but my fever is 103.1
Sarge I'm worried :(
Please tell me someone above you knows about this and can clear a path to sort things out for you?
Paid out of my pocket to see a doctor. I got a shot of rocephin & started another round of bactrim. It's just a temporary patch. The doctor told me I'm not going to get better until I get the tumors under control.
Sundae, I'm on my own. I'm stuck in the "VA system" which is overloaded. Because of the screwups I made in my personal life, I have no advocate. Truth be told,I'm pretty much alone. I created this mess by putting the Army before my family
Ya'll I can't sleep due to pain. I'm too weak to make it to the bathroom. I'm unable to empty my bladder completely. I've got a "pee jug" here beside me. I know I joke and act the buffoon, but I've reached rock bottom. I can't go on like this. I hurt so bad and I have no one to help me. I don't know what to say
I hear you, Sarge, but I don't know what else to say. Hang in there.
I think Sundae was looking at making sure your commanding officer / supervisor / whatever knows about this, knows about your temperature, etc. They might be able to make a few phone calls to get you fixed up sooner, if only because it is in their interest to look after you.
What he said. Sorry Sarge, you deserve better.
Oh Sarge, what a horrible situation. I'll echo the others and hope that your CO knows where you're at. You say you put the Army before your family, and that means you have nobody and no advocate. The Army now needs to be your advocate. Your immediate superiors who know you and might be able to assist/speak for you.
Feel better soon honey.
Sarge I wish there was more that I could do than wish you better.
I'm too far away to do anything practical and have no idea how your systems work.
If there is anything you can think of - even if it means swallowing your pride - try it.
Start making noise and keep making noise until someone listens.
And yes, you deserve much better.
But you still have your family, they didn't just disappear. And your girls love and need you.
I can't imagine what you are going through, but it sounds bloody awful.
Love and wishes.
horrible day. pain and swelling, even a low grade temp. it is so bad i considered trying to get to the VA emergency room, but it is almost 2 hours away. i'm trying to hold out till i go to endo on tuesday.
i have to admit my stuff is minor compared to busterb, mtp, and others here. i don't see how they manage so well. even the percocet just barely takes the edge off.
Thanks for thinking of me, but I honestly have to say that my issue pales in comparison to yours. Don't ever feel guilty for "whining" about it. I don't understand how you manage and I wish I could give you more help than you're getting. Your situation makes my heart ache for you and I really hope you're able to get it sorted out.
Sarge, if I were anywhere close, I'd be there in a hot minute.
Sarge. I don't understand the problems with the VA? Maybe I'm just lucky and have got petty good service. I do understand that some primary care DRs are assholes.
While at camp Shelby? See if you can go to Hattiesburg and see DR. Bowling. She has been great to me. Hearing aids, glasses. On and on. Good luck.
I didn't make t to Camp Shelby. I'm still sick but I'm better. I have an infection in my parotid glands in addition to the prostate. I'm hurting at both ends
Damn Sarge. Hang in there Bud. Thinking of you ... and no, not your prostate. :)
Wow your immune system is going haywire! I wish I was closer I would help you too Sarge. :(
Hoping you're feeling better today, Sarge. :(
Thinking about you, Sarge.
Thanks for thinking about me. No fever and the swelling has gone down in the left cheek. Still have some drainage into the mouth from the right side
I met with the VA nurse practioner in the PTSD Clinic. They've upped my meds to 80mgm of Celexa, 10 mgm of Valuim, and 2x1mgm of Xanax daily!!! Sounds like I'm going to be a zombie when the meds get here.
I've still have no updates on the tumors.....
...the swelling has gone down in the left cheek. Still have some drainage into the mouth from the right side
You're not still talking about your prostate, are you?
Just joking Sarge. What with all the Valium/Xanax/Celexa, if you ain't
getting better, you'll soon be
feeling better, if you can remember you're ill to begin with.:lol2:
Feel better dude.
If I take that and chase it with a couple of mojitos, I won't give a damn about anything. Better living through pharmaceuticals. LOL
I'd join you in the mojitos!
Fingers crossed that things start getting better for you once the juggernaut with the tablets arrives...
Well, I'm having another bad night. I have taken 15mgms of hydrocodone, 2x Lunestra, .and 2x Skelaxin. I'm still wide awake. I wonder if I'll ever sleep again
I've only been off antibiotics for a few days and the infections have started again. Fever is 100.4
Call the doc in the am and get another round started.?
Sarge, it's the hot flushes. But soon Auntie Flo wil be gone forever.
Too late. I've already had menopause
I'm sure you do give men a pause.
i'm trying to make it till the 31st when I see the endo. My prostate is really faring. I'm having problems peeing & fever is over 101. I have my daughters bringing me some food.
Those of you who follow me on Facebook know I pushed it very hard on Fri & Sat. Two hard days of checkpoints in the heat. plus I have a grant to finish this week, process prisoners, final budget hearing on Sep 1, Grand Jury on the 12th, and Homeland Security Grant due on the 30th.
Finally, the she devil ex is flirting heavily
pain is terrible. i'm mixing valuim and hydrocodone trying to manage. i can't live like this
Oh sarge! Can't you get to a doctor before 31st? Please?
no honey. that's the earliest for endo. i'm going to beg for radiation or surgery. i can't live like this
only two days left now, sarge, you can do it.
Print this thread out and make them read it. Or read it to them.
Thinking of you Sarge. Hope you're hangin' in there OK. And I think Zengum is right.
I've finally gotten a doctor who is going to treat me as a whole person rather than concentrating on a few symptoms. He has totally ruled out discoid lupus (which the Army has been treating for the past few years). He believes I have had chemical exposure in the past which could be causing some issues, especially photosensitivity. In believes my earlier tests were skewed due to the cortisone treatments. He has placed me on propranolol for tremors and added Axiron. I had a new round of blood tests & I have another MRI being scheduled for the tumors. He is concerned about the asymetery (sic?) and the continued fluxuations of the hormones. He said my scarlet flushing & sweats are when my testosterone was bottoming out and is akin to menopausal hot flashes.
I am having some breast enlargement, but I figure if they keep growing I can just stare at them in the mirror all day. Who needs to go out when you have your own great rack? LOL.
As you can tell, my spirits are lifted. I feel like I do have someone who is going to try to fix me. It is costing me a fortune, but it will be worth it in the end
Outstanding!
Thanks for the update, but thanks a LOT for the good news!
Good News in the Ban News thread is always good.
Happy to hear it all.
Good stuff, sounds like a tide has turned.
I have had chemical exposure in the past
Gulf war syndrome?
I'm glad you finally found a useful Doc!
Good news, good news.
Very happy to read good news in a bad news thread.
And VERY happy that someone is treating you properly.
The rub-some-dirt-on-it approach might work when you're six, but make-do-and-mend is not appropriate medical treatment for any adult, let alone one who has served his country.
It happens here too and it baffles me.
Surely the Armed Forces (current and ex) should get the very best healthcare available?
I'd be happy to wait a little bit longer for treatment if someone who had put their life on the line was receiving it instead.
All too often, the only people with access to full and immediate care are the very rich, the monarchy and politicians. If David Cameron or Prince Harry was hit by a car on a zebra crossing, they probably wouldn't have to queue up for 20 minutes (standing!) at a triage window, and then wait 9 hours for treatment. And then find the wrong part of the leg had been X-Rayed, so go back for another 7 hour wait.
Okay, I didn't serve.
How much more frustrating must it be if you did?
You should get a Priority Pass, like you do in theme parks.
Anyway, sorry - a bit of an off topic rant.
Yay for the doctor looking after you for us.
thank you sweetie. things haven't improved much, but he has lifted my spirits greatly by taking the approach of treating me as a whole person. there is some concern about the shape of the tumor, but we're going to do another mri
Sarge, is your new doc by any chance a D.O.?
We started going to an upstart D.O.'s office when I was a teenager (just two docs then...now it's many docs and P.A.s and Nurse Practs, etc) and I remember learning about how D.O.s treat the whole person. I've been going to that office ever since. My doc asks me questions about my life, how I'm feeling, how it might relate to this or that...he doesn't treat me like a set of symptoms.
I'm glad you found a good one. :)
I'm glad to hear you're heading somewhere rather than nowhere in term of treatments.
My new doc is Indian and specializes in Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders. Really a great guy
So glad to hear it Sarge. Sounds like you're in much better hands with this new doc.
Great news Sarge! You finally hit the jackpot in the VA lottery!
We can even compare racks sometime! LOL
:lol:
Actually, when sarge posted that picture of the not terribly feminine dispatcher he works with, I was kind of wondering if he was preparing us for a Big Announcement, and maybe we would end up with another Pamela.
I think my boobs are already bigger than our dispatcher. The only problem is I'm growing so much fur I won't have to wear clothes before long. I'm already considering trying to do a comb over using my pubes
You're turning into a werewolf? Cool as fuck!
Dana when my clothes are off, I look like a panda (white chest hair) sprouting boobs. LOL
With red toenails, no less.
I reckon crime will fall pretty fast once word of that gets around. Seriously, would you want to be arrested by that???
I'll try to dig up some old photos of me undercover back in the early 90's. Talk about freaking folks out. LOL.
werepanda - love it & I'll start using that.
werepanda - love it & I'll start using that.
user title
ok. my followup was scheduled for the 14th. They just called and want me in tomorrow due to test results. im worried
ok. my followup was scheduled for the 14th. They just called and want me in tomorrow due to test results. im worried
But at least you're not being ignored. I wish you all the best for tomorrow.
Positive thoughts, man. They're just staying on top of things.
But at least you're not being ignored. I wish you all the best for tomorrow.
This.
Good luck man.
What they all said *hugs*
Pain is pretty rough. I'm trying to find someone to drive me.
Ack. Any luck finding a lift?
Here's the word from the VA. My tumor has grown, but they will be able to remove it without damaging the optic nerve. If I can build my resistance up enough, hopefully I will have surgery next month. I have begun cortisone therapy.
Had one of my officers drive me up.
Stay positive Sarge. We're rooting for you.
Well that was better news than expected, no? At least they can operate and hopefully remove the source of your problems.
Wishing you all the best through this.
I screwed up big time. I took a flu shot.
I hope you won't feel too crappy.
I'm doing fairly well. I can fell the difference the axiron & cortisone are making. My prolactin levels are still hovering around 17. I'm a little run down from making Guard Drills on back to back weekends, but I really needed the money. Plus I had 3 days of Grand Jury and one of my cases was the rape of a 12 year old (carries life sentence).
I screwed up big time. I took a flu shot.
Stick to tequila
Can't drink tequila straight. I'm too much of a wuss. I love margaritas, but I'm more of a rum fan. I love mojitos!! Plus, I'll take a shot of shine (quality not made in a radiator)
Plus I'm getting a little worried about mixing alcohol with my valuim and xanax. I did that earlier in this episode and I guess I'm lucky I didn't kill myself.
tis clear as a cloudless sky ye jes need bettr tay-keel-lar.
Spent the day at the VA in Memphis. Guess what?? Another possible diagnosis. I have appointments on the 13th, 14th, and 17th. I'll fill you in more after this because this is getting so very confusing. BTW, my cortisol is almost in normal ranges, but my human growth hormone is high. Testosterone is doing well with the Axiron
...one of my cases was the rape of a 12 year old (carries life sentence).
It should.
Sometimes I think my illness would be cured by a good jug of shine & a beautiful Brit. If not, at least I would go with a smile on my face
Big Sarge:
You should watch
this video. It's about a guy who's been in the news recently, Steve Jobs. He definitely had his shit together, and this is an excerpt of what he said to some young people recently.
snip--
...
My third story is about death.
When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.
Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.
About a year ago I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it clearly showed a tumor on my pancreas.
...
This was the closest I've been to facing death, and I hope it's the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty than when death was a useful but purely intellectual concept:
No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.
Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.
...
There's a lot more and it's all very good, please do read it. The stuff I believe, I *KNOW* on this subject sounds like a fucking Hallmark card. I won't drown you in my treacle. Jobs makes my point. This is the life you have *now*. Live it, don't just wish it.
Nive post BigV. Here's what I know as of today. Possible Neurosarcadosis (6mm) affecting the pituitary, however everything is within norm taking the Axiron gel except for elevated HGH levels. They have just identified a 1cm mass in my right temporal lobe. I still don't know what this will mean until the doctor visit on the 17th.
If anyone knows anything about temporal lobe massses, please fill me in. I admit I am a little scared
well reading about temporal lobe tumors have scared the shit out of me!!! has anyone on here had one??
Try reading
this page. I have a
caringbridge account for my son. There are many who use
carepages as well. Depending upon your situation, you may want to set one up. You can also find others who may be in a similar situation who can offer guidance and/or support.
I ran a search and got
=temporal+lobe+mass"]this page. (dunno if you can see it or if you have to register first)
Found: 55 CarePages website results; 213 Profile results; 185 Discussion forum results
Wishing you the best.
IF you want more info, PM me.
I went looking online and found quite a few people with less scary stories Sarge. Lots of people seemingly have surgery and treatment and make good recoveries.
Of course you're scared. But to be honest, I'm seeing mostly good stories too. Mostly involving almost immediate improvement in symptoms and very few side effects -and most of those manageable with a little cognitive reprogramming. Chin up, dude. :)
Good vibes to ya, ya big ol' Sargey thing you.
Sarge, doing research will only freak you out. Take a few deep breaths and try not to think about it. Go out and do something fun to keep your mind off of things.
In the end, all I can honestly say is Bloody Hell.
Haven't you been through enough?
I can't suggest anything, or make anything better.
Just to say hang in there and lots of love.
Wishing you the best Sarge.
Well had more tests today & didn't even get to talk to the doctor. They seem more concerned about the abnormal HGH than these hings growing in my head!! Arghhh. Anyway, I get to see the doctor next Monday. Another week of friggin worry.
The only thing that might brighten my outlook is if some of the female dwellars posted some NSFW pics. Hint -hint. (Pity??)
Did you spell out to them that that is what you were worried about?
I keep seeing residents & lab personnel. I have to wait to see the attending at the VA.
Today was private pay. I saw a nurse & she was very nice but couldn't discuss anything. The doctor wants these lab results before he talks to me.
I can't handle this anymore. The VA doctors are nice to me, but the waiting list for appointments is ridiculous. So now I either have 2 microadenomas or neurosacrcadosis, but I am responding to treatment. I have to private pay for one of the meds because the VA won't cover it (Axiron). The endo clinic can't do anything about the 1 cm mass in my right temporal lobe. They are referring me to neurology in April. BTW, They had found the 1cm mass in May but just told me about it this month.
Psych meds: They had upped me to 80 mgm of celexa and it was working good. Then they let my prescription run out forcing me into serotonin withdrawl. They had cancelled my prescription without telling me the FDA says the max dose can only be 40mgm. So I finally got a 30 day supply & now the VA has decided the max dose can only be 20 mgm. Now they've ordered a different med for me to start hopefully next week.
I'm so frustrated!! Different departments don't talk to eachother in the VA. When I was there 2 weeks ago and told them I was out of psych meds, endo couldn't give me a refill. Also, they didn't tell me about the temporal lobe mass. I only found out when I requested a copy of my records & then the resident told me they have to send me to neuro in 6 months.
Yes it is poor pitiful me. I have something causing masses in my head. My going on & off psych meds is affecting my personal life. My job is going to hell and I expect to be fired at anytime! I can't handle this. I am past my breaking point.
Thank you for letting me vent
ugh. Move to UK, marry Sundae, get NHS.
sorry, sarge, it all sounds so horribly, horribly compex at a time when that is nearly the last thing you need.
Does the ?army have any non-medical counsellors to help with legal things and the like, who you could get to advocate for you?
Oh Sarge. I'm sending you a big ole pile of British hugs. I have no practical advice to offer, but maybe Monster is on the money? Can you get an advocate/counsellor/care -worker of some sort to help you beat the medical profession into submission?
The VA absolutely sucks. Sorry you are having to go through all this Sarge. :(
BTW, They had found the 1cm mass in [COLOR="Red"]May[/COLOR] but just told me about it this month.
I'd have went to jail. As God as my witness, I'd've bounced off the ceiling. Even I can't believe how mad that makes me. There just can not be a reason to have withheld that type of information from you. [COLOR="Red"]
For five fucking months!![/COLOR]
JFC.:facepalm:
my oldest daughter left school early to come over and stay with me. my ex-wife is even ging to bring me some dinner and talk to me. she is a psych counselor. i just let the crap get the best of me today
Sorry for the poor pitiful me shit last night. Family stayed with me and then I had Addie today. So I'm in better spirits. Job pressure is tremendous but a 4 year old dancing around the PD in different color tutus really seemed to put everyone in a good mood
Do [COLOR="Red"]not[/COLOR] apologise for letting off steam/ranting here. If not here, then where can you Sarge? Huh?
Sarge that's not poor pitiful me stuff at all.
That's dealing with a serious condition and the authorities that should be helping you but aren't.
I'm so glad you have people who love you around.
Home with my oldest girl for awhile. She has missed school 3 days this week. As far as me, I'm taking 9 different meds a day (some multiplr doses). I am feeling a little better, but Dr Palmer noted the weakness on my left side has worsened. Paying out of pocket sucks, but it sure beats waiting for VA openings
I think you can claim it on your taxes?
If it's above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, yes.
If it's above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, yes.
AND you itemize your deductions. That means you can't just take the standard deduction. It means more complicated tax filing, and much more complicated document control.
Yes, the documentation is a nightmare. But it can be worth it.
Sarge, do you have CHAMPUS/Tricare? Are you still able to use that for private hospitals, physicians, and meds, or is that another benefit the military has lost?
Sending hugs and hope to you, buddy.
AND you itemize your deductions. That means you can't just take the standard deduction. It means more complicated tax filing, and much more complicated document control.
It's not that complex. the road to hell is paved with easy.
they make stuff easy because it's in
their best interest, not yours.
My Tricare coverage ran out & I am under VA. I always itemize, so I can expect to claim it on taxes
Well yesterday had both an MRI and a CT scan done. The VA puzzles me sometimes with their procedures. Anyway, the neurosurgeon says my adenoma has reduced 4.3mm or it could just be the way the "slice" was filmed. So no surgery right now. I meet with the neurologist on the 24th. Hopefully, I will get some new answers. So far I have the following diagnosis for the same problems:
Doctor 1 - adenoma
Doctor 2 - scar tissue from brain injury
Doctor 3 - Neurosarcoidosis
Doctor 4 - cyst
To save money, I've gone off of the gel & I'm back on shots for testosterone. The increase in propanolol has really helped with my tremors in addition to helping with blood pressure.
Overall good news, but still confusing.......
Sounds like some good news like you say.
How very frustrating not to have a definite diagnosis.
I worry about you having to balance health and money...
Although it seems to be working.
Money is a lot better since I downsized to the camper. Plus the kids love it. LOL, but they start to missing their cable TV, etc. after a day or so when they visit.
Of course they do - you miss what you're used to.
But they will have far more valuable memories of their childhood/ teen years with you because of it.
Well another typical VA visit. I saw a non-native speaking UT Resident. He has ordered another MRI and EEG. No diagnosis, no change in meds
Typical VA. You might as well go to your local herbal healer. At least they would pay attention to what you're telling them and honestly try to come up with a cure - unscientific though it might be. But who ever said the VA based its treatments on medicine or science? :right:
SO wrong for our brave military who gave it their all for their country and the country just flicks them off like lint on a sweater. :mad:
Another fun day of testing at the VA. I hope I'll get the results next month.
Is that how they re-program you?
I wish they could reprogram me!! LOL. I've seriously considered seeking ECT therapy if the amnesia would last longer. There are so many times I wish I could start with a clean "slate".
High-tech soldier of the future!
This reminded me of your situation, Sarge.
[FONT="]7 February 2012[/FONT]
[FONT="]Army Times[/FONT]
[FONT="]Families link burn pits to health woes, debt[/FONT]
[FONT="]Patricia Kime [/FONT]
[FONT="]Army Reserve wife Rosie Torres, 38, stood in line Jan. 19 at a Texas Health and Human Services office to apply for assistance with her mortgage, bills and groceries.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Mounting debt related to her husband’s medical bills has pushed the couple into arrears; between insurance deductibles, house payments and overages, they owe more than $55,000.[/FONT]
[FONT="]LeRoy Torres, 39, a Reserve captain and former Texas state trooper, was assigned to Joint Base Balad, Iraq, in 2008 and believes exposure to the camp’s open-air burn pits left him with debilitating respiratory problems. He can’t walk long distances, perform daily tasks or even roughhouse with his kids.[/FONT]
[FONT="]But although he can’t work full time, between his drill pay and Rosie’s part-time pay, they make too much to qualify for a grant.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“My husband actually said that with our insurance, we’d be better off if he’s not around,” Rosie Torres said. “I don’t want to hear that. That’s not what our family needs.”[/FONT]
[FONT="]The Torreses are among the many National Guard, reserve and active-duty families awaiting military medical evaluations and possible retirement or separation.[/FONT]
[FONT="]They also are part of a smaller cadre that has incurred massive medical bills resulting from illnesses they say are tied to pollutants — namely burn pits or fine particulate matter in desert dust — they inhaled while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.[/FONT]
[FONT="]As non-activated reservists, they often cobble together health care, relying on the Veterans Affairs Department, their work insurance and savings accounts to pay for care.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Quite often, that means going into debt.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“I never thought we’d be in this situation,” said Maria Baca, whose husband, New Mexico Air National Guard Master Sgt. Jessey Baca, still has a civilian job but has outstanding bills totaling $57,000.[/FONT]
[FONT="]About 26,000 troops are in the military disability evaluation process at any given time, according to an Army report released in January. The waiting time for a decision on the 18,000 soldiers in the process is between 373 to 400 days, the report states.[/FONT]
[FONT="]The wait for medical discharges is especially difficult for families like the Torreses and the Bacas, whose husbands were primary breadwinners and aren’t earning full-time military or civilian pay.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Baca, 52, served two tours at Balad. He’s been diagnosed with emphysema, sleep apnea, chronic cough and mesothelioma.[/FONT]
[FONT="]When he went to VA for treatment, he felt he wasn’t getting solutions, so he turned to a doctor at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee who has diagnosed more than 40 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with a rare condition known as constrictive bronchiolitis. The consultation with pulmonologist Dr. Robert Miller put them further in debt.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“The gap between VA and [the Defense Department] for the reserve component of the military’s wounded must be bridged,” Rosie Torres said. “Too many people are losing their homes, their life savings and their hope.”[/FONT]
[FONT="]VA says it treats veterans for their known symptoms and is working to understand the unexplained health problems of some Iraq and Afghanistan vets.[/FONT]
[FONT="]But the process takes research and time, said Dr. Terry Walters, deputy chief consultant of VA’s environmental health strategic health care group.[/FONT]
[FONT="]An Institute of Medicine report released in November said the existing data cannot prove whether long-term health effects are likely to result from exposure to emissions.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Miller’s diagnosis of constrictive bronchiolitis is controversial. It gives patients a name for their disease but no relief — it’s incurable — and requires an invasive lung biopsy to detect.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“If a veteran comes in and they have demonstrated shortness of breath and it has an impact on their functioning, they don’t need a lung biopsy to prove they have a disease. Our concern is biopsies are being done on the outside for financial reasons,” Walters said.[/FONT]
[FONT="]In a letter to the New England Journal of Medicine, physicians at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio challenged Miller’s findings, reported in the journal in July 2011.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“Constrictive bronchiolitis is characterized by relentlessly progressive disease, lack of response to treatment and severe disability and it is often fatal … although clinicians should remain diligent and aware of the possibility of constrictive bronchiolitis, the data do not establish a convincing link,” wrote physicians Dr. Michael Morris and Col. Lisa Zacher.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Miller, who has diagnosed 45 cases of constrictive bronchiolitis in troops, defends his work, saying he initially was reluctant to biopsy seemingly healthy service members.[/FONT]
[FONT="]But their symptoms indicated a “hidden impairment,” Miller said. Their tissue slides show “lacy black pigment” on the sample surfaces — evidence of constrictive bronchiolitis, he said.[/FONT]
[FONT="]“These are often elite athletes — soldiers who are now limited, disabled,” Miller said. “And they aren’t getting the compensation they deserve.”[/FONT]
[FONT="]Veterans say they aren’t seeing Miller or other civilian physicians to get higher disability ratings. Instead, they say, they seek peace of mind, regardless of cost.[/FONT]
[FONT="]In February, clinicians, researchers, troops, veterans and family members will meet at Stony Brook University Medical Center in New York for a first-ever symposium on lung health among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. Sponsored in part by the advocacy group Burn Pits 360, for which Rosie Torres is executive director, the meeting aims to call attention to this cohort’s health and welfare issues.[/FONT]
I'm trying to pay private doctors for tests & consultations. I keep getting so many different theories/explanations. For over 3 years, the Army treated me for discoid lupus and turns out I never had it. sigh.
Except for Snoop Dogg's daughter.
I'm morphing and have been for several months. Last year until the late fall, I couldn't kill anything. My deer camp experiences were mainly setting cameras and managing food plots. I was bitten twice by dogs that I should have shot becaused I tried to capture them to take the dogs to the shelter. Then I began to change. I've found I can kill again and it doesn't phase me. I can skin & process hides without a thought. I guess in some ways I am returning to normal?
I wonder if it is because I've been out of a combat zone for almost 2 years and I admit the last tour was fairly easy. Or, are the raised doses of benzodiazepines removing my inhibitions? In some ways it scares me because I am finding I can kill (not just hunt) without it affecting my emotions. Scary to wonder if I am going back to where i can kill "anything" and not have it phase me.
I have a Vietnam Vet uncle who became an on again off again hunter after being pretty passionate about it in his youth. I'm not in his head but you can see he's conflicted about it. He was an MP but stayed out of law enforcement in civilian life. It seems like you have a tougher row to hoe having to face it directly every day.
Sarge, you have a reason to kill the animals that you do, and a history of doing so.
Would a "verminator" worry about killing wasps, mice, rats?
Would someone working in an abbatoir worry about killing sheep or cattle?
You admit you actually made a mistake in judgement by not killing two dogs. Misplaced compassion. You are not in any kind of regression if you admit that you would do it now.
Killing animals for food doesn't affect you one way or the other. That's fine. You are not excited by hunting (even though it is acceptible to be) but you are also not disgusted by it. It's a long reach to not be fazed by killing for food to not be affected by any killing.
The fact it concerns you shows that is a long way from being the truth.
Anyway, just sending my love and hopes for your health.
If I knit I would send you a marvellous blanket to keep you warm in your hideaway. Or crocheted, or sewed. But I'm just all about words, so I hope you can take them home in your heart.
Things are getting worse. I had my PHA with the National Guard and they have flagged me with 3 issues to go to the medical review board. Plus, I'm going to the Memphis VA again today (2 days in a row) for optometry, endo, and neuro. While I was gone some idiot sent an anonymous email to the local TV station that became the major news story. The bad thing is it is so full of bullshit and they didn't even take the time to consult with me.
So my military career, health, and job are all fucked in a matter of 48 hours. What's the use of trying........
Buddy, when we are in the Army and we do our jobs right the body goes. Ankles go, knees go, brain goes...we get wore out more then most I think. So, keep after the health stuff, it's just a consequence of the combination of growing older and doing a tough job. If the news story isn't true, then this too shall pass. The use of trying is because that's what we have to do....we ain't quitters.
Great news today! They are taking me off the valuim and xanax (gradually) and switching me to Depakote. Plus the doctor will sign off on my PTSD for retention at my Med Board. Now, I have to pass my sciatic nerve damage and brain lesions. At least I beat the PTSD part. Keeep your fingers crossed. I need these final 5 years & one more deployment for retirement.
Fingers crossed for you, Sarge.
here too. that's why I type so badly.
Crap. The VA has let me run out of meds again......
How? Did yoou request a repeat and they didn't refil and didn't notify you? If so, can ypu arrange to pick up future repeats a week or two earlier, so if they fuck up you still have meds while they sort it out?
Ordered meds over 2 weeks ago, my meds are in transit. Until then I have to wait or go to a private provider. They do this to me every few months. arrgghh
SO frustrating! Do you have a local pharmacy where you're known, where they might spot you a few days' meds? Or a local provider who will write a short script? I hope you can work it out. Sorry to hear this.
Ordered meds over 2 weeks ago, my meds are in transit. Until then I have to wait or go to a private provider. They do this to me every few months. arrgghh
:in transit"? Tits. can you get them to agree to ordering while you still have a month left? How many months do you get at once?
Some of the meds are a 90 day supply. The others are every 30 days. Running out of meds is just part of being an OIF/OEF Veteran. I think we have really flooded the system. The running out of psych meds is what is rough. If I don't have some by Monday, I'll head to a local provider. That kinda sucks because it is out of pocket and I'm still unemployed (except for National Guard).
Depending on what they are, your provider or pharmacist can give you a number to call at the pharm company - some of the expensive ones can be had at a deep discount in certain situations. Don't delay getting to a provider, running out of meds is rough for sure. Good luck.
^She sounds like she knows what she's talking about to me. Get aggressive about getting what you need without getting a second mortgage on your sole.
FFS, VA, get it together.
Do soldiers in the field need to go through this shit waiting for ammunition resupply? I bloody hope not. Yet getting some pills to some guy living stateside is harder than getting a few hundred kilos of ammo to Backwater Base in Fubaristan.
*snorts in disgust*
What all of them said, PLUS, tell them that "I've found I can kill again and it doesn't phase me."
They oughta get you those fucking meds.
Thank Bush.
*soul :rolleyes: fff, where were you when my spelling needed correcting?
*soul :rolleyes: fff, where were you when my spelling needed correcting?
I figured it was some sort of Brit expression I'd missed while growing up. Sole as in "underfoot?"
One of you should have done '*f aze' if we're on a spelling thing.
...and look, I've put a space in!
...and look, I've put a space in!
Inspired by you, I corrected my punctation. ;)
skin is crawling. definitely planning on a trip to the doctor tomorrow
I spent $400 on a doctor visit, lab work, and meds. Then I got my VA scripts in the mail today. Sigh..If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all...
:right:
Can you store them against future run-outs? rotating stockpile?
Great news! I got an update on my VA Disability. This is the second time I've applied and it looks like I might get a ruling next year. Oh Joy, Oh Joy! Especially since they lost my previous application. % years isn't that long to wait I guess
I am still alive. Simply sick & weak. A little stressed too..
Hang in there tough guy.
Gotta get some good luck soon.
Sending hugs and good thoughts, Sarge. Sorry treatment is rough. I hope you can get some remedies for side effects from your doc. Rest up, take one day at a time, keep in touch. :hug:
Great news! I got an update on my VA Disability. This is the second time I've applied and it looks like I might get a ruling next year. Oh Joy, Oh Joy! Especially since they lost my previous application. % years isn't that long to wait I guess
The Hell you say....
The VA, loosing paperwork...
It could never...
Even as I type it, I can't keep a straight face.
Good luck, bro.
My projected case resolution is now 2014. I think they hope we all die off before we can collect. LOL
That sounds so familiar ... in Ontario the wheels turn slowly as well. It does cut down on the expenses/services provided column total if a proportion of your applicants expire before gaining access. :mad:
I jest. I know the VA is overwhelmed with so many cases. They say it is the multiple tours that screw us up both physically and mentally
Multiple tours would be too hard on anybody. I can't imagine how anyone could cope with that stress.
Big Sarge-----I cannot imagine what you are going thru. My heart goes out to you on so many levels. The things you've been thru, the bullshit of the overwhelmed VA (ok, they're overwhelmed----they've BEEN overwhelmed since VietfuckingNam!)
Maybe you're right. We're just big sacks of meat. Conciousnessless is preferred by people like me. You're a fighter, a soldier, a winner. you'll beat it and you'll help someone else in the process.
And the multiple tours are different now. Instead of being rotated to a stateside base, they get sent home expected to resume normal weekend warrior routine. It's a difficult transition for some, from war zone to suburbia, all the while wondering when Uncle Sam will yank their chain again. I should think it would be easier to do the 3 or 4 year hitch, then decide whether to reup or go home.
Mobilize units for the duration. Soldiers shouldn't come home until the mission is complete. As soon as you get in the groove & finally understand the locals, they rotate you back home. Then another poor schmuck has to start trying to figure shit out. Sigh.
I miss being deployed. That's the only time I feel safe & happy.
I am officially halting my treatments thru the VA. I truly believe I have been experiencing horrible side effects because my meds have been in conflict. I'm planning on staying on the prednisone and testosterone to keep counter the adenoma.
You have to consider quality of life. It looks like I was on the path to always treating tumors. Not wort it
I get the results of my abdomen scan tomorrow.
Worried.
Last night's dinner went straight through me.
TMI - I could see barely changed elements of it in the bowl before I flushed.
I need to sort my life out. As I have for the last six months.
Keep trying, Sarge.
Moving and breathing and love is what you have, make the most of it.
Good luck Sarge - sometimes less is more.
Good luck Sundae - worry turns my bowels to water.
Grab some good luck you two.
All the best, Sundae - I hope you get good news.
Sarge, I understand ... wishing you all the best as well.
Good luck Sarge!
And Sundae: Let us know how you get on chika
As an update - I went to the Doctors as per my appointment, but the test results hadn't come through.
Luckily, the GP pulled some wizardy GP magic and got me an appointment the next day (generally I have to book about 10 days in advance.)
Enlarged liver and spleen.
No surprise.
Now referred to a consulatant. Surprise.
NO MORE DRINKING.
No, no, no no no-no-no-no. No more.
No more help of course.
Just no more drinking.
How is Keith Richards still alive and fucking women young enough to be his daughter and my liver is on death row?
This might slay me, people.
Sounds to me like they've intervened before the death row bit.
It's a shit hand to be dealt m'dear.
Sorry, Sundae. Women are more susceptible to alcohol-related liver damage than men, which sucks.
You have loads of determination and discipline. You are awesome. You can do this.
Beautiful people on here.
Thank you.
You know I've done this to myself and you're still good about it.
Thank you again.
The vast majority of life's struggles are things we've done to ourselves. The only surprising thing is how few people can own up to that.
Not mention, for everybody who 'brought it on themself' there's half a dozen or more who did the same shit and got away with it.
Hi. I am using a borrowed phone to post. I had surgery and a staph infection. I will be at home before the end of the week. I'm sorry I worried you. Things just happened pretty fast. Love y'all for being so sweet
Thanks for posting, Sarge. Love you too!
Sent by thought transference
Hope you feel better soon, Sarge!
Feel better, Sarge! :hug:
Glad to hear from you Sarge *smiles* get well soon m'dear: the Cellar has been a distressingly panda free zone.
get well soon Sarge. thanks for checking in man.
Hope everything turns out well, Sarge...those staph infections can be motherfuckers.
I've been home for a few days now. I'm feeling better, but still weak. I'm working hard on trying to get into shape because I am going on an active duty tour in 6 weeks.
Thank all of you for being so sweet while I was gone. Please don't worry about me if I go silent for awhile. Anonymoo or her daughter will post any critical messages since they know me in the real world. I feel very bad about upsetting some of you
Sarge!!!! :hug: :hug: :hug: glad to hear that you're home. Take good care of yourself now. And don't feel bad that you've worried us. Be glad that we love you enough to care. :) but if you go MIA again, you can be sure that I will harass you again with emails, texts, voice messages, whatever....!!!
good to hear from you Sarge.
I reserve the right to worry, you can keep your right to feel patronized and we'll call it even. Good luck on getting well and strong.
You got some questions to answer, Mister.
You'd better put me in touch with Anonymoo stat, because I do not want to be worrying that you're in the ground.
That said, love you and so happy you're back.
Seriously - PM me. I need proper contact details in case this happens again.
I'll talk to other people if it means I have some way of getting news. I couldn't even send a card or photo to cheer you up!
So glad to hear from you, Sarge! Keep getting stronger!
Um ... active duty in six weeks? Wow.
I saw this and thought of you, Sarge ...
Limey - That cartoon says it all.
I'm headed back to the VA for a follow up with Oncology after my hospital stay next week. I'm also seeing Neuro for some test reports.
Have I told you the latest?? The VA has started billing me for my meds and office visits! I've had to stop seeing my counselor because I was being charged $85 a visit. I have to get this straightened out. No wonder I keep having migraines and cluster headaches
How can this happen?? Does it have to do with you being back in active service?
I hope next week goes smoothly and you get good news, Sarge.
Good news today!!!! The VA has declared me 80% disabled. I draw my first disability check on Sep 1st.
I can remain in the Guard until a medical board next year & I am still deemed combat deployable. I pray I can get one last deployment in Africa or the Sinai before my board.
Awesomesauce! Pleased as punch for ya Sarge :)
Very happy to hear this, Sarge.
I never thought I'd be saying something like this, but I'm glad they found you 80% disabled.
Sarge, Now you go to Social Security and apply for benefits, after you have Med Eval. And retire.
Sarge that's wonderful.
I'm hoping for the same sort of result for my Dad; as said above it sounds a weird thing to celebrate, but I am happy for you.
And Fargon has it right.
Do your last tour then stay at home, safe.
Well, okay, the roads and the kitchen ae dangerous places.
More dangerous than fights to the UK, HINT HINT.
Damn, with no danger pay you can't afford a flight any more than I can.
Still, ifyou can get over here I know there'll be people to feed you and provide a bed. I know somw non-Dwellars who would help even. If'n you wanted to stay more than a day in this neck of the woods... I live in the least interesting place of all the English Dwellars. Although it does have the benefit of ME living here.
Hope you're happy, Maury.
Haven't heard from you in a while.
You should have some post waiting.
And hope there hasn't been any baby-mama-drama recently.
At least you can tell the troublesome ones that you're now officially disabled, and any negative comments directed towards you are now prejudicial according to your status :lol: