I hate to ask, but can anyone out there give me their impressions on my Fathers health? Every time I try and sense more than two months out, it is as if someone pulls a curtain down at about the two month mark and says 'No, you are not going to see that.' I would normally let it go at that but this is something that is important to me. About two years ago he was diagnosed with Vasculitis and Wegner's Granulomatosis. Since then, his health has been on a roller coaster ride. Lately, he has been doing very well but I am hoping to get a second opinion on what I sense. Thanks so much!

Snoopy, I don't know how to do that kind of thing but I hope you can find someone to help you. I'm glad your Dad's feeling ok.



Renee

[ August 28, 2002, 09:42 AM: Message edited by: Renee ]

Thanks, Renee! I appreciate the kind words. You are a ray of sunshine in my cloudy day.

Snoopy,

I'm afraid my phychic abilities are not very good, but sometimes I can pick up on some things and I will sure devote some time on it for you

I believe that with Wegener's they sometimes find the person is hypersensitive to an unknown antigen. Has his doctor mentioned this or looked into this aspect yet? I will also keep your dad in my prayers!!

Cindy

Thanks for the thoughts Pookie Bear! Yes, they've looked in to that with no luck. They also have looked into past family history (I have Crohns disease), as well as the fact that he worked in the chemical industry for over 30 years. Most of the chemicals we work with can cause a lot of problems over the long term but it is almost impossible to pin it to that.

forgive me, I should know this but I don't what exactly is Vasculitis and Wegner's Granulomatosis?
The better information I have the better I might be able to focus in on things, ya know?

Here is a link to Vasculitis.

http://my.webmd.com/content/article/2945.509[/URL]

Here is a link to Wegeners Granulomatosis.

http://my.webmd.com/content/article/2945.519[/URL]

Don't feel bad about not knowing what they are, I had never heard of them before he got sick. In my Dad's case, the Vasculitis hit his brain and the Wegeners got his Kidneys.

[ August 29, 2002, 10:10 AM: Message edited by: Snoopy ]

Thanks for the information, Snoopy. I too may be better able to pick up on things once I read up on those diseases.

Right now (and as you've said), I don't feel anything is particularly bad for him, but a few months down the road may show some changes. (I'm thinking 3-6 months. Kidneys most affected first, brain second. Does that make sense?). The chemicals certainly may be the culprit. He isn't working right now, is he? Retired... early perhaps?

Kell

What you are saying definitely makes sense. No, he's not working any more. He won't be able to work for the rest of his life, unfortunatly. We are making the best of it though by keeping him as busy as his limited energy will allow. I also would like to say thanks to all of you who have been wonderful enough to post on this for me. Thanks!

You're welcome, Snoopy. I hope we were able to help somewhat. Bless his heart, I know he must be depressed with the sudden lifestyle change. He's probably none too keen on having to take meds and go to the doctor all the time, but he's going to have to if he's to beat this - or part of it. I picture him as rather thin. Has he lost a lot of weight recently?

Diseases that affect the immune system are tough to live with - I have one myself, but it's not nearly as serious as your father's, thankfully. All you can do is love him and be supportive. Hang in there, sweetie! We're here for you if you need to talk.

Hugs,
Kell