Lisa’s Weekly Update - February 4, 2008
Although I don’t have much to report, I thought I would send an update just to stay in touch. I had an appointment with Dr. G last week. It was great to see Dr. G and the girls. For several months, I had seen these folks every week. They became a second family to Rick and me. I am happy to report that Dr. G was happy with my progress and I couldn’t agree with him more.
I completed a sleep study on January 9th. The test revealed that I did not have sleep apnea, upper airway resistance syndrome, or periodic limb movements. I spent most of my time in Stage 2 sleep.  I also completed heavy metal testing. My lead and mercury levels were elevated; however, they were not in the “very elevated†range. I don’t each much seafood, usually just once a week.
I am holding my own right now. Like last month, I am anxiously awaiting spring. While I am in my exercise class 3 times a week, my walking has somewhat decreased. I am still walking…just not as much as I did previously. We had a week or so of warmer weather.  I had the opportunity to walk outside and that was absolutely wonderful.  I plan on increasing my walking once the weather improves. Unfortunately we are back to the artic tundra again.
Overall, I am feeling much stronger. My appetite has increased over the last several weeks. Sometimes I feel that I cannot get enough food, while other hours of the day I’m not hungry at all. I bought a bag of Oreo’s and am sorry to say they are all gone. Not sure what triggered my desire to get them. I debated the issue for a long time before purchasing them. In the past it was emotional eating. Oreo’s were my comfort food. That wasn’t the reason I purchased them this time. I just had a craving.
I am enjoying teaching my college class. While it is only one night a week, I know that I must pick and choose what I do and how much I do. Expending more energy than I have will put me in a vulnerable position and susceptible to a “crash and burnâ€.
Rick is still walking. He has surpassed 2 million steps since he started the YOU: Staying Young Program. He is very dedicated to his exercise program. He also is lifting weights and takes exercise classes several times a week.
In closing, I am very happy with my progress. I think it is important for fibromyalgia patients to have goals. My goal is being more cognizant in how I deal with stress.  Sometimes I truly need to think before I act. Self induced stress is indeed avoidable.