I live in northern Virginia with my husband of 30 years. We have two biological daughters and one adopted daughter with fetal alcohol syndrome.
I was born with a heart condition (PAT). Doctors couldn't understand how I could walk around with the severe arrhythmia I had. Until I reached adulthood, I wasn't aware that I was any different from anyone else. I didn't realize that blacking out and being short of breath weren't normal. I understand this is what led to an enlarged heart and ultimately, CHF. I have dealt with CHF for several years but have felt okay until this spring. I actually hoped the shortness of breath and fatigue were due to another health problem I have.
Since the birth of my first daughter 28 years go, I have been on numerous meds to control my problem. In February of 1993, I had ablation and a dual pacemaker implanted. I felt great for a couple of years and could do things I hadn't been able to do for years. In 1996, my Multiple Sclerosis reared its ugly head again and now I need a walker to walk short distances and a wheelchair when away from home. I am on long term disability, have bladder problems, balance problems, cognitive problems, optic neuritis (blind in one eye), vertigo, loss of feeling in my right leg and reduced sensation in my left leg. I have been diagnosed with chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome, multiple sclerosis, CHF, a-fib and am a borderline diabetic with a kidney condition. My kidney problem was another birth defect.
Well, after this long-winded description of my problems, I still feel very lucky. I amm still alive and kicking although not as high as I once did and have a loving and understanding family. If optimism, tempered with reality and God's grace, is an indication of quality of life, I have nothing to complain about.
I worked many years for software development contactors. I really enjoyed my jobs - I'm a workalcoholic - as a process analyst and systems analyst. My bigest adjustment has been not being able to work. I have dealt with my health problems my whole life and am not afraid. I would like to see my grandchildren grow up but feel blessed to have survived these many years. According to my doctors, I shouldn't be here. I love to prove them wrong. It's not the longevity of life that counts but what you do with it and I will continue to do as much as I can until the end.
My interests are painting, quilting, gardening and science fantasy books. Somewhat curtailed by my optic neuritis and fatigue but that doesn't mean I have to quit, it just takes me longer.
My meds are aspirin, Vasotec, Digoxin, Coumadin, Cordarone, intramuscular injections of Avonex (Interferon beta-1a), Prilosec, neurontin and Prempro. The Avonex, Prilosec and neurontin are for my CFS and MS. There's a lot to be said for the power of prayer!
Donna P -- November 13, 1998
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