Well, it's been almost a year and a half since I last updated my page, so it is time to let you all in on what I have been up to.

First of all, I want thank everyone for the numerous emails and guest book entries I have received. You all can never know how happy it makes me to know so many of you are helped by the little bit of knowledge I have on Sjogren's Syndrome.

Where do I begin with "my story, one year later"?
My health has been improved from the days of not taking any medications. Not as much pain, but still some. I have since gone back to work and the evenings are tough with trying to do a little house work, supper, spend time with Brittany and have time for me. Usually the "me" time suffers so that I can keep up with everything. I have recently stopped taking my Paxil (anti-depressant) and thought I was having a sucessful go with it until recently. The "tidal wave" emotions and crying spells have come back, so I'm thinking it wasn't a smart thing to do. My doctor did tell me that I may not be able to get off of them because "depression sometimes goes along with Sjogren's". I beleive him now and if this is your situation, please think hard about going against your doctor if he is treating you for depression with Sjogren's.

I still do not get much sympathy and support at home. That is one thing I had hoped would improve, but as the weeks and months pass, the one I look to for support forgets all that easier. Please, if you are the loved one of a Sjogren's sufferer, educate yourself on the condition and remind that person that you care every day.

Out of the many things I have learned from this condition, I have learned that it is a very lonely thing to have to go through.

Myself, I try not to think about it often. With going back to work, I have learned to find other things to occupy my mind and am determined not to let Sjogren's Syndrome dictate my life.

As far as any further insight into Sjogen's Syndrome, I have not found out any life altering details. You just have to take one day at a time as it comes.

Well, that's my philosophy on Samantha's past year and 4 months. I will update sooner, hopefully with more imformative views.

THANK YOU AGAIN FOR VISITING MY PAGE AT ANGELFIRE

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