Several years ago as I was battling c-diff in a fight for my life, my pastor Harriet Hutton, who shepherds the flock of Economy United Methodist Church in PA, suggested that when I felt better, I should blog about the nightmare I was experiencing. Today I am much better and do not have c-diff; however, my condition was so weakened by this disease that I became susceptible to other health problems. As a professional author and one-time publisher, I thought that writing about this subject would be fairly easy, but until now I was not emotionally ready to do so. I would try and then I would cry!
I now know that I did not have to go through this ordeal if only I had been educated about the disease; however, to be truthful, until my body hosted this bug, I had never heard of it. In order to better tell my story, I must go back through the years and tell exactly what happened to me in the proper order. I will post as often as possible and will welcome comments from my readers.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
How This Journey Began--April 2008
It started with a sphenoid sinus infection that was very stubborn. Because the sphenoid is close to the brain, my doctor wanted to avoid surgery if possible. Thus I was given antibiotics and more antibiotics, all of them very powerful. But the infection resisted treatment so the antibiotics continued and finally--after a second opinion at Cleveland Clinic--I seemed to have overcome the infection. It was great to be feeling good again but, unfortunately, I had other symptoms occur that did not seem to be connected in any way to the sinus infection. I was correct; instead the symptoms were connected to the cure. I began to have digestive troubles with constant nausea and diarrhea that would not clear up. After a couple of weeks I went to my primary care doctor who ordered several tests. When I received the results, I was not too alarmed but rather relieved to have an answer. I had something called c-diff which was brought on by the antibiotics. Surprisingly, the cure was more specialized antibiotics that defeats the disease in approximately 70 to 80 percent of patients. So, this was an inconvenience but not a big deal. Or so I thought! Thank God that I did not know what was ahead of me that would take me to the brink of death and cause severe health problems for years. It would influence my physical, emotional, and social life in extremely negative ways. Please follow me through this journey as what I explain could save your life which is my only reason for sharing my ordeal.
What is C-diff?
According to my latest research, approximately 30,000 to 50,000 Americans die of c-diff every year and more than 450,000 become infected by this deadly bug. If I had access to more up-to-date research, I am convinced the number would be much higher. As I mentioned earlier, it was antibiotics--rather the overuse of antibiotics--that caused my C-diff. First of all, I want to remind my readers that the average human digestive tract hosts as many as 1,000 species of microorganisms, most of them causing no harm. But when antibiotics upset the balance of these organisms, harmless bacteria can quickly grow and make you very, very sick. A doctor, who is a friend of mine, is known for saying that antibiotics do not have a brain--they cannot target the bad bacteria without also targeting the good bacteria. When the bad overpowers the good, we get yeast infections, an annoying problem which most women are all too familiar with. Also, with such imbalance, one of the worst offenders is a bacterium called Clostridium difficile--relatively rare as compared to other intestinal bacteria. C-diff releases toxins that attack the lining of the intestines. Without intervention, c-diff can kill you!
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Is C-diff Contagious?
Because c-diff results in diarrhea, it is potentially contagious and produces spores that can be very resistant. By the ingestion of contaminated food or water or touching contaminated surfaces or objects, c-diff spores can get into your body. All you need to do is touch your mouth with your hands and you might become infected. In hospitals and long-term facilities there is great surface contamination. With beds close together there is the danger of cross contamination and sometimes improper cleaning as well as the absence of hygienic skills by staff members in regard to patients can result in the spread of this disease. This is general information; however, when I get into my own personal battle with c-diff, readers will learn more about this and how to protect themselves. I must warn readers that my description will be fairly graphic in order to get my message across. Remember that I am interested in helping you avoid this "beast" of a disease.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Intermission: Life before C-diff
Before I became ill with c-diff, I was leading a very active and healthy life. For sixteen years I, along with my great staff, published the works of many Christian authors throughout the United States. I still consider many of these authors to be my friends. When my husband retired, I dissolved the company, returning the rights to authors or offering them to other publishers. Then, with more free time, I began doing more writing. I already had two books published by mainline publishers--didn't want to publish my own work--although I did publish one on writing and publishing. The Lord blessed me by granting national television and radio appearances as well as the opportunity to host my own radio talk show that discussed the topic of childhood sexual abuse.
And so, no longer a publisher, I did book reviews, editing, and began work on more writing projects of my own. I also enjoyed editing my husband's Bible studies, some of which will soon be published. By the way, his name is John--called Jack by most of our friends. But one of my biggest pleasures was babysitting my two grandchildren, Talia and Pasquale, every Thursday. My husband and I did this together and delighted in every moment we spent with them. And then everything changed, slowly at first but soon c-diff took control of our lives.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Round One: My First Battle with C-diff!--2007-2009
As originally stated, my problem started with a sinus infection, rounds of antibiotics, and then the diagnosis of c-diff. I was extremely nauseous and had bloody diarrhea with severe stomach cramping. At first I was given a prescription for metronidazole also referred to as flagyl which is an antibiotic (go figure) and very quickly began to feel better. Home free, I thought! But all too soon the symptoms returned, and I was running a fairly high temperature. So I was given another round of flagyl; however, this time it didn't seem to help me at all. The next drug I was prescribed, and the only other one available at the time for fighting c-diff, was Vancomycin. This antibiotic was very expensive which prohibited many patients with c-diff from getting it. At first it seemed to tame the disease but it was the lull before the storm. By now, after doing research, I had determined that I was in the 20 to 30 percent range that didn't get well after taking these drugs--at least not right away. The "not right away" turned into months and then years.
How do I begin to describe the nightmare? Just thinking about it causes my heart to race and the panic to resurface. My faith in Jesus Christ and my wonderful husband Jack (John) kept me going when at times I wanted to give up. Whether I was being rushed to the hospital for dehydration or bedfast and burning up with fever and pain that tormented my body, Jack was by my side, encouraging me with his words, prayers, and actions. There were times he was afraid that he had lost me as I was unresponsive and barely breathing. In or out of the hospital, he would stay up all night bathing me with cool cloths, trying to bring down the fever. All the time, he would pray.
When the worst of the worst became better, thanks to the continued and increased dosage of Vancomycin, a different medicine that finally relieved some of the nausea, another that helped the diarrhea, and yet another that helped to control the pain, I spent part of the time on the couch in the living room. This was a big step and Jack and I were both encouraged. I weighed around 100 pounds and had no appetite, so if I could force down a few bites that was progress. I was taking probiotics as suggested by my doctor. I spent a little time on the computer so I could participate in a c-diff support group and this was both helpful and frustrating. People that I thought of as online friends were experiencing their own horror stories and some of them ultimately died. When this would be reported, all of us would grieve but would continue on offering help to each other about what probiotics, other natural supplements or meds were providing relief. Some members finally beat the disease which we called "the beast."
Would I ever get over the disease myself? I didn't know. As a person of faith, I knew that I would live either on earth or in Heaven. I had a taste of the afterlife as a pre-teen which had impacted my life in a many ways. To read click on http://c-diffhelp.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html .
As the days passed--some good and some bad--I would be blessed when Pastor Bert from our church would visit me, sharing communion with my husband and me. Just his presence cheered me up as we discussed faith, healing, and happenings at the church. Because my husband and I couldn't attend, he would always say that we were missed but that with my weight loss there was a lot less of me to miss. He has since retired but I will never forget his faithfulness. Not only could we not go to church because of my condition but my husband had to stop teaching a Bible Study for a men's group that was part of a larger organization. He so loved everyone in the group and enjoyed teaching as he didn't use store-purchased lessons but prepared his own material after much research. I was so frustrated that I was stopping him from going but I was not safe to be alone. I was terribly weak and could have easily fallen if I had to get off the couch or out of bed for any reason. Though I saw my primary care doctor and specialists, the c-diff lingered, doing damage to my body that would haunt me for years. When I could not pray because of being too sick, I would recite my two favorite Bible verses over and over in my mind and draw strength from the words: Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
It was only natural for me to be protective of my family, determined that they would not get c-diff by getting spores on their hands and touching their mouths. My dedicated husband and caretaker was the most at risk since he spent so much time with me. I would not allow anyone else to use my bathroom, and even though I was already infected, as my health permitted, I would wash everything in my bathroom with Clorox. This is the only disinfectant available to the average person that will kill the spores. I also used Clorox on door handles, the telephone, computer keys, and anything that I touched. This was being overly cautious as I washed my hands several times a day, ending with a Clorox rinse. When company visited, I kept my distance, concerned for their health.
I wanted to be rid of c-diff; it was stealing my life from me. I had seen many experts, but no one could offer any additional help other than to continue prescribing the Vancomycin--Vanco for short. In desperation I picked up the phone book and checked out the listing for gastroenterologists. Why not try yet another one, I thought. Yes, it would wear me out to get there as it did every time I had to see a doctor, but I was desperate. This was a woman doctor that I knew nothing about, but I called and got an appointment as early as possible. Dr. Beth was pleasant and very young. When I asked her if she had ever treated c-diff patients, she said that she hadn't. Off to a good start, huh? But she did know something about the disease and, after taking my history, wanted to try something else using the Vanco. She wanted me to take the medicine, then stop for a couple of days, and then start again. She said that the medicine would wipe out some of the c-diff bacteria at first but the bugs would run and hide--even in the appendix. By waiting and attacking again, we would kill more of them. We would repeat this process over and over until the c-diff was slowly eliminated. We would also decrease the dosage after a while.
It worked! I started feeling better and could eat and keep more food down. Eventually, I tested negative for c-diff, and our household celebrated and thanked God. I was far from well, but felt I had a fighting chance to get that way.
How do I begin to describe the nightmare? Just thinking about it causes my heart to race and the panic to resurface. My faith in Jesus Christ and my wonderful husband Jack (John) kept me going when at times I wanted to give up. Whether I was being rushed to the hospital for dehydration or bedfast and burning up with fever and pain that tormented my body, Jack was by my side, encouraging me with his words, prayers, and actions. There were times he was afraid that he had lost me as I was unresponsive and barely breathing. In or out of the hospital, he would stay up all night bathing me with cool cloths, trying to bring down the fever. All the time, he would pray.When the worst of the worst became better, thanks to the continued and increased dosage of Vancomycin, a different medicine that finally relieved some of the nausea, another that helped the diarrhea, and yet another that helped to control the pain, I spent part of the time on the couch in the living room. This was a big step and Jack and I were both encouraged. I weighed around 100 pounds and had no appetite, so if I could force down a few bites that was progress. I was taking probiotics as suggested by my doctor. I spent a little time on the computer so I could participate in a c-diff support group and this was both helpful and frustrating. People that I thought of as online friends were experiencing their own horror stories and some of them ultimately died. When this would be reported, all of us would grieve but would continue on offering help to each other about what probiotics, other natural supplements or meds were providing relief. Some members finally beat the disease which we called "the beast."
Would I ever get over the disease myself? I didn't know. As a person of faith, I knew that I would live either on earth or in Heaven. I had a taste of the afterlife as a pre-teen which had impacted my life in a many ways. To read click on http://c-diffhelp.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html .
As the days passed--some good and some bad--I would be blessed when Pastor Bert from our church would visit me, sharing communion with my husband and me. Just his presence cheered me up as we discussed faith, healing, and happenings at the church. Because my husband and I couldn't attend, he would always say that we were missed but that with my weight loss there was a lot less of me to miss. He has since retired but I will never forget his faithfulness. Not only could we not go to church because of my condition but my husband had to stop teaching a Bible Study for a men's group that was part of a larger organization. He so loved everyone in the group and enjoyed teaching as he didn't use store-purchased lessons but prepared his own material after much research. I was so frustrated that I was stopping him from going but I was not safe to be alone. I was terribly weak and could have easily fallen if I had to get off the couch or out of bed for any reason. Though I saw my primary care doctor and specialists, the c-diff lingered, doing damage to my body that would haunt me for years. When I could not pray because of being too sick, I would recite my two favorite Bible verses over and over in my mind and draw strength from the words: Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
It was only natural for me to be protective of my family, determined that they would not get c-diff by getting spores on their hands and touching their mouths. My dedicated husband and caretaker was the most at risk since he spent so much time with me. I would not allow anyone else to use my bathroom, and even though I was already infected, as my health permitted, I would wash everything in my bathroom with Clorox. This is the only disinfectant available to the average person that will kill the spores. I also used Clorox on door handles, the telephone, computer keys, and anything that I touched. This was being overly cautious as I washed my hands several times a day, ending with a Clorox rinse. When company visited, I kept my distance, concerned for their health.
I wanted to be rid of c-diff; it was stealing my life from me. I had seen many experts, but no one could offer any additional help other than to continue prescribing the Vancomycin--Vanco for short. In desperation I picked up the phone book and checked out the listing for gastroenterologists. Why not try yet another one, I thought. Yes, it would wear me out to get there as it did every time I had to see a doctor, but I was desperate. This was a woman doctor that I knew nothing about, but I called and got an appointment as early as possible. Dr. Beth was pleasant and very young. When I asked her if she had ever treated c-diff patients, she said that she hadn't. Off to a good start, huh? But she did know something about the disease and, after taking my history, wanted to try something else using the Vanco. She wanted me to take the medicine, then stop for a couple of days, and then start again. She said that the medicine would wipe out some of the c-diff bacteria at first but the bugs would run and hide--even in the appendix. By waiting and attacking again, we would kill more of them. We would repeat this process over and over until the c-diff was slowly eliminated. We would also decrease the dosage after a while.
It worked! I started feeling better and could eat and keep more food down. Eventually, I tested negative for c-diff, and our household celebrated and thanked God. I was far from well, but felt I had a fighting chance to get that way.
Doctors, Hospital Admissions, and "Oh No, Not Again!"-- 2009-2012
Although weak, nauseous, and still in a lot of pain, I had defeated -diff. Now I could start rebuilding my health with vitamins, exercise, and seeing my doctor for advice. It felt wonderful to have hope that I could eventually get back to really living, not just existing in bed or on my couch. Then my first hurdle to my way back presented itself. For several years my gynecologist had been keeping tabs on a cyst on my right ovary. It was small and was diagnosed as non-cancerous; however, it had to be watched carefully, especially since my mother had died of ovarian cancer. I periodically had scans to make sure that there had been no significant growth, and now that I had beaten c-diff, I managed to get to the diagnostic center to get an up-to-date scan. The news was shocking! The cyst was growing at a fast rate and had to be surgically removed immediately. Though I wasn't in good shape for surgery and was concerned about the need for antibiotics, I had no choice. My right ovary and the cyst were both removed without any problems--other than I had a bad reaction to the anesthesia and caused the staff to be afraid they were losing me. The cyst was non-malignant, and I didn't need antibiotics so I went home to recover and continue my journey toward better health. I wish I could say that the journey was easy, but the c-diff had caused me to be so rundown that it was an up and down battle. I tried to walk by holding onto the walls of rooms but I would soon tire. However, I wouldn't give up as I had won the main battle and Jesus gave me added strength. My strength might fail but not His. I got strong enough to make it to church a couple of times where I received a warm welcome. I received physical therapy which helped on the days that I was well enough to keep my appointment. There were times I still suffered from dehydration and would have to go to the hospital.
I purchased a pedal cycle so that I could sit on the sofa in the family room, watch television, and exercise my legs. This seemed to help a lot until I did something dumb. I tripped over the cycle and fell into it, plunging a pedal into my right side and then continued falling into doggie stairs for our two older dogs that my husband had made so they could climb onto the sofa. I broke one rib, bruised several others (had a nine inch round bruise) and a side that was throbbing. I was on strong pain killers for several weeks which totally messed up my already messed up digestive system. Nearly everyone who has c-diff, continues to have a messed up stomach for months or years afterward--they also have IBS. I was discouraged and depressed but God sent someone special to help me through the bad times that were ahead. Our church had a new pastor--Harriet Hutton--and she visited me several times, reminding me of God's love and praying for me. I instantly felt connected to this woman of God and thanked my Lord and Savior for sending me this angel.
A few months later I woke up extremely sick and running a high fever. I didn't even argue when my husband said we had to get to the hospital, because I knew something was really wrong. As it turned out I had severe diverticulitis so was admitted for treatment. After the tests were completed, a surgeon came into my room and repeated the diverticulitis diagnosis but also added that I had a tumor and c-diff. All I heard were the words c-diff...nothing else registered, and I felt like I had entered into a darkness that was trapping me forever. The c-diff reoccurred because I had been given powerful antibiotics to fight the diverticulitis, something I had to have to save my life. I was put in isolation and kept in the hospital for two weeks, being told I needed surgery to remove part of my colon and the tumor. To prepare for the surgery, a picc line was inserted into my arm. The picc line caused a blood clot for which I had to be on blood thinner for several months. The good news is that the diverticulitis healed without surgery and the tumor turned out to be a shadow on the film. I want to mention that while I was in isolation, Pastor Harriet visited me, wearing a gown, mask, gloves and whatever else the hospital required for visitors. It was lonely in this room, although my husband was by my side at all times, but for Pastor Harriet to visit me was something I would always remember. Anyway, it was back home where I would begin my second battle with c-diff.
I purchased a pedal cycle so that I could sit on the sofa in the family room, watch television, and exercise my legs. This seemed to help a lot until I did something dumb. I tripped over the cycle and fell into it, plunging a pedal into my right side and then continued falling into doggie stairs for our two older dogs that my husband had made so they could climb onto the sofa. I broke one rib, bruised several others (had a nine inch round bruise) and a side that was throbbing. I was on strong pain killers for several weeks which totally messed up my already messed up digestive system. Nearly everyone who has c-diff, continues to have a messed up stomach for months or years afterward--they also have IBS. I was discouraged and depressed but God sent someone special to help me through the bad times that were ahead. Our church had a new pastor--Harriet Hutton--and she visited me several times, reminding me of God's love and praying for me. I instantly felt connected to this woman of God and thanked my Lord and Savior for sending me this angel.
A few months later I woke up extremely sick and running a high fever. I didn't even argue when my husband said we had to get to the hospital, because I knew something was really wrong. As it turned out I had severe diverticulitis so was admitted for treatment. After the tests were completed, a surgeon came into my room and repeated the diverticulitis diagnosis but also added that I had a tumor and c-diff. All I heard were the words c-diff...nothing else registered, and I felt like I had entered into a darkness that was trapping me forever. The c-diff reoccurred because I had been given powerful antibiotics to fight the diverticulitis, something I had to have to save my life. I was put in isolation and kept in the hospital for two weeks, being told I needed surgery to remove part of my colon and the tumor. To prepare for the surgery, a picc line was inserted into my arm. The picc line caused a blood clot for which I had to be on blood thinner for several months. The good news is that the diverticulitis healed without surgery and the tumor turned out to be a shadow on the film. I want to mention that while I was in isolation, Pastor Harriet visited me, wearing a gown, mask, gloves and whatever else the hospital required for visitors. It was lonely in this room, although my husband was by my side at all times, but for Pastor Harriet to visit me was something I would always remember. Anyway, it was back home where I would begin my second battle with c-diff.
Round Two: My Second Battle with C-diff--2012-2015
Well, it was back to bedrest, nausea, fever, running to the bathroom and taking Vanco to try to cure the c-diff again. The medicine was now in liquid form and much less expensive, but even though I tried the method of using it as Dr. Beth had taught me, I didn't get better. My doctor had ordered home nurse visits and rehab for me but as weak as I was, it was difficult to measure my progress. There were times of severe depression, especially when I realized what it was doing to my husband. I would sometimes wish that God would take me home, but when I saw the love reflected on my husband's face and saw him kneeling in prayer at my bedside, I could not give up.
One day I received a call from my cousin Freda who lived about ninety miles away. We had been out of touch, and she had no idea how sick I had been. She had called to tell me about her brother Jack, who was one of my favorite male cousins. I knew he had been battling cancer, but when she told me that he had died of a colon infection that I had probably never heard of, my heart nearly stopped. I replied back, "It was c-diff, wasn't it?" When she replied that this was correct, I told her that I was fighting c-diff and had been for some time. Neither one of us knew what to say--at least at first. We prayed for one another and relived some good memories of her brother. I knew I couldn't get to the funeral, but I also believed my cousin was in Heaven. Though I hadn't seen him in years, he lived and still lives in my heart.
I continually heard and hear from others who knew someone who had c-diff. Many of them had died after finally beating the disease, but because it left them so susceptible to other health problems, they lost the fight. It seemed like such an impossible battle, although I know that with Christ nothing is impossible. Every day, I remind myself of this and draw from my faith to believe that I will be productive again. I did finally beat the c-diff again and have been free of it for some time...but the health problems still plague me. I had my gall bladder removed and supposedly a mild heart attack. My latest attack was diagnosed as Lyme disease. It is one thing after another!
Now, you might be wondering how I was cured of c-diff the second time...something I will briefly explain. I had just been discharged from the hospital and was talking with my gastroenterologist when he looked at me soberly and said, "Bettie, this c-diff is determined to kill you." I agreed and looked at him helplessly. Then he asked me if I had ever heard of a fecal transplant which was 99 percent successful in quickly defeating c-diff. I had heard this mentioned in my support group but realized it was controversial and that only five hospitals in the United States performed the procedure. There is no way that I was well enough to travel--not even to attempt to save my life. We talked further and he mentioned that if I had a donor who passed all the tests, this could be done at home. His exact words were "you have nothing to lose and a life to gain." My primary care doctor had my husband thoroughly tested and he became my donor. The two of us performed the procedure with no one else present. I won't go into detail as to how this was done as it should be tried only with the help and advice of doctors. I was cured instantly; the procedure had worked, something I knew even before the tests proved me right. And so today, I fight to get back my strength, desiring to become active in Church and also active as a wife, mother, grandmother, and a professional writer. I ask for your prayers in regard to this becoming a reality.
The next two sections of this blog will deal with the emotional feelings and social impact that c-diff had on my life and in many ways, continues to have.
One day I received a call from my cousin Freda who lived about ninety miles away. We had been out of touch, and she had no idea how sick I had been. She had called to tell me about her brother Jack, who was one of my favorite male cousins. I knew he had been battling cancer, but when she told me that he had died of a colon infection that I had probably never heard of, my heart nearly stopped. I replied back, "It was c-diff, wasn't it?" When she replied that this was correct, I told her that I was fighting c-diff and had been for some time. Neither one of us knew what to say--at least at first. We prayed for one another and relived some good memories of her brother. I knew I couldn't get to the funeral, but I also believed my cousin was in Heaven. Though I hadn't seen him in years, he lived and still lives in my heart.
I continually heard and hear from others who knew someone who had c-diff. Many of them had died after finally beating the disease, but because it left them so susceptible to other health problems, they lost the fight. It seemed like such an impossible battle, although I know that with Christ nothing is impossible. Every day, I remind myself of this and draw from my faith to believe that I will be productive again. I did finally beat the c-diff again and have been free of it for some time...but the health problems still plague me. I had my gall bladder removed and supposedly a mild heart attack. My latest attack was diagnosed as Lyme disease. It is one thing after another!
Now, you might be wondering how I was cured of c-diff the second time...something I will briefly explain. I had just been discharged from the hospital and was talking with my gastroenterologist when he looked at me soberly and said, "Bettie, this c-diff is determined to kill you." I agreed and looked at him helplessly. Then he asked me if I had ever heard of a fecal transplant which was 99 percent successful in quickly defeating c-diff. I had heard this mentioned in my support group but realized it was controversial and that only five hospitals in the United States performed the procedure. There is no way that I was well enough to travel--not even to attempt to save my life. We talked further and he mentioned that if I had a donor who passed all the tests, this could be done at home. His exact words were "you have nothing to lose and a life to gain." My primary care doctor had my husband thoroughly tested and he became my donor. The two of us performed the procedure with no one else present. I won't go into detail as to how this was done as it should be tried only with the help and advice of doctors. I was cured instantly; the procedure had worked, something I knew even before the tests proved me right. And so today, I fight to get back my strength, desiring to become active in Church and also active as a wife, mother, grandmother, and a professional writer. I ask for your prayers in regard to this becoming a reality.
The next two sections of this blog will deal with the emotional feelings and social impact that c-diff had on my life and in many ways, continues to have.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
The Emotional Impact of C-diff
Although I suffered physically from c-diff, I also suffered emotionally. On some days, the depression would seem to overshadow all other feelings. I felt guilty--as though I had done something wrong to bring this about. And yet I knew that I had taken antibiotics because they were prescribed for my condition. I felt ashamed that I couldn't do housework, cooking, and other routine chores that I had once taken for granted. I felt I was a burden to my husband although it was not true--all he wanted was for me to get well. The holidays would go by and I couldn't fix the big meal or decorate the house as I had in past years. I couldn't be the kind of grandmother I wanted to be--nor the mother that I wanted my children to have. I didn't want to be physically weak, afraid of falling every time I tried to walk.
I recall one time when my husband let me out of the car in front of the doctor's office so I could wait inside while he parked the car a distance away. There was something we hadn't counted on--the curb that I would have to step up on to get to the entrance. Without something to hold onto I didn't have the strength to manage the curb. I stood there helpless when a very elderly man came up to me, offering to grab my arm to help me. Although I appreciated the offer, I knew that I would probably make him fall. I began to cry just as my husband came racing toward me to help me step up on the curb so we could enter the building. When I used my walker, I wasn't used to the looks of sympathy that others would give me. I wanted the old me back. Because I had so many different things go wrong with my health, I began to feel that everyone must think I was a hypochondriac. I imagined that they must think of me as a loser and pitied Jack for his choice of wives. When one well-meaning Christian friend suggested that there must be some sin that I had not sought repentance for, I quipped back my answer. "I've confessed everything I think I could have done wrong since my first baby burp until now." I felt ugly, unclean, and unworthy of the wonderful, caring husband who had given up so much for me. My Christian faith was being tested as was my husband's, but when things seemed the darkest, we would ultimately feel Christ's presence. Through this continuing experience I have empathy for the sick that is not easily described. I realize that there are many much worse off than me, and I pray for those I know and don't know. I want to reach out to others, touch them, and let them know I care....and tell them that God loves them. They need to know that their illness did not come from God, but that He will help them through each day. God is not the author of illness; it is the result of the original fall of mankind. I also want them to believe in healing and miracles.
I recall one time when my husband let me out of the car in front of the doctor's office so I could wait inside while he parked the car a distance away. There was something we hadn't counted on--the curb that I would have to step up on to get to the entrance. Without something to hold onto I didn't have the strength to manage the curb. I stood there helpless when a very elderly man came up to me, offering to grab my arm to help me. Although I appreciated the offer, I knew that I would probably make him fall. I began to cry just as my husband came racing toward me to help me step up on the curb so we could enter the building. When I used my walker, I wasn't used to the looks of sympathy that others would give me. I wanted the old me back. Because I had so many different things go wrong with my health, I began to feel that everyone must think I was a hypochondriac. I imagined that they must think of me as a loser and pitied Jack for his choice of wives. When one well-meaning Christian friend suggested that there must be some sin that I had not sought repentance for, I quipped back my answer. "I've confessed everything I think I could have done wrong since my first baby burp until now." I felt ugly, unclean, and unworthy of the wonderful, caring husband who had given up so much for me. My Christian faith was being tested as was my husband's, but when things seemed the darkest, we would ultimately feel Christ's presence. Through this continuing experience I have empathy for the sick that is not easily described. I realize that there are many much worse off than me, and I pray for those I know and don't know. I want to reach out to others, touch them, and let them know I care....and tell them that God loves them. They need to know that their illness did not come from God, but that He will help them through each day. God is not the author of illness; it is the result of the original fall of mankind. I also want them to believe in healing and miracles.
Social Life with C-diff
Actually, I had a very limited social life while fighting c-diff. I mean how social can you be when you are bedfast or feeling very ill most of the time. However, when it came to friends, I am amazed by the caring and thoughtfulness of those concerned about me. Well, let me address the negative first as I did lose a couple of friends--ones who had been very close to me. It is difficult to cultivate a friendship when one party is always sick and also probably because of my up and down emotions.
Now to the positive and a tribute to the wonderful people who have helped me to continue in this battle to regain my health. First, I thank my Lord and Savior for all the blessings He bestowed on me that radiated light through the darkness of c-diff. My husband and I are closer than ever, inseparable and looking forward to the future. My wonderful children, Lori and Eric, my son-in-law Silvio and my grandchildren are cheerleaders in my corner. Both Pastor Bert and Pastor Harriet helped me with my spiritual walk when my physical body didn't want to get out of bed.
There are so many friends who have been here for me during the last eight years, and I know will continue to support me with their prayers and good wishes. One of my lifetime and best friends, Joetta Moore, from Morgantown, WV drove to Baden with her husband Ed and brought me delicious and nourishing potato soup, unlike any I had ever eaten. It had everything in it but the kitchen sink. I wasn't that well then and Joetta immediately went to my kitchen and found everything she needed to set the table. It was a wonderful time, regardless of the circumstances. Then I smile thinking about Theresa, my next--door-neighbor, who mailed me get well cards all the time just to cheer me up. I thank Ade, an attorney and writer from New York, who sent me apple juice on a regular basis, via the mail, because my doctor said it would be good for me. Bill Myers, who is in the Bible study that my husband taught, still calls to check on me as well as sending emails. He is a close friend whom Jack and I both appreciate for his faithfulness. Another neighbor, Edie, became my telephone prayer partner as we shared what was happening with us as far as our health problems. She is in Heaven now, making it an even sweeter place for when I arrive. Jerri Ward who lives in Alabama is a very close friend who is a strong Christian and an encourager. We talk frequently on the telephone, and I always feel better after our conversations. Another telephone buddy is Marie who lives in Arizona; she and I went to high school together. Marie, a wonderful Christian, made me a beautiful afghan after asking me what my favorite colors are. Mary Kay from Morgantown is a former co-worker and Christian friend who sends me goodies in the mail--including scripture verses--to make me feel better. Then there is Don and Elaine whom I talk with fairly often; they too are from Morgantown and were in our wedding. They are so special to me and to Jack. And now, let me thank my precious cousin (in-law) Mary who lives in Florida. She and her group of prayer warriors have been so faithful to me during my years with c-diff. I am honored to be part of the prayer group. I ask God to bless Mary who is the most caring individual I ever met. There are so many praying for me including Thomas Kemp, a special friend and writer; Susan, Vince, Dan, Don, Steven, Michael, Shirley, Mary and Wayne my dear close friends, Richard, Mary Jane and endless others whom I love and appreciate.
For a time when I was ill, I tried to keep my book reviewing website going as it gave several people extra income. When the time came that I could no longer do my part, Melissa Brown Levine, took over as co-host for several months and did more than her share of work. I am so appreciative of how she helped out until I eventually closed down the site. If you need a writer or editor, look her up on google or Facebook.
I want to thank the members of Economy United Methodist church for their prayers and the many gifts that they brought to my home over the years. One member, Jeanette, cooked meals for us an entire week when Jack was ill. In this world of war and killings, the goodness of God is alive and well in His people! My husband and I look forward to the time when we can worship with our friends at the small but Christ-centered church. We are trusting God that this will be in the near future
Now to the positive and a tribute to the wonderful people who have helped me to continue in this battle to regain my health. First, I thank my Lord and Savior for all the blessings He bestowed on me that radiated light through the darkness of c-diff. My husband and I are closer than ever, inseparable and looking forward to the future. My wonderful children, Lori and Eric, my son-in-law Silvio and my grandchildren are cheerleaders in my corner. Both Pastor Bert and Pastor Harriet helped me with my spiritual walk when my physical body didn't want to get out of bed.
There are so many friends who have been here for me during the last eight years, and I know will continue to support me with their prayers and good wishes. One of my lifetime and best friends, Joetta Moore, from Morgantown, WV drove to Baden with her husband Ed and brought me delicious and nourishing potato soup, unlike any I had ever eaten. It had everything in it but the kitchen sink. I wasn't that well then and Joetta immediately went to my kitchen and found everything she needed to set the table. It was a wonderful time, regardless of the circumstances. Then I smile thinking about Theresa, my next--door-neighbor, who mailed me get well cards all the time just to cheer me up. I thank Ade, an attorney and writer from New York, who sent me apple juice on a regular basis, via the mail, because my doctor said it would be good for me. Bill Myers, who is in the Bible study that my husband taught, still calls to check on me as well as sending emails. He is a close friend whom Jack and I both appreciate for his faithfulness. Another neighbor, Edie, became my telephone prayer partner as we shared what was happening with us as far as our health problems. She is in Heaven now, making it an even sweeter place for when I arrive. Jerri Ward who lives in Alabama is a very close friend who is a strong Christian and an encourager. We talk frequently on the telephone, and I always feel better after our conversations. Another telephone buddy is Marie who lives in Arizona; she and I went to high school together. Marie, a wonderful Christian, made me a beautiful afghan after asking me what my favorite colors are. Mary Kay from Morgantown is a former co-worker and Christian friend who sends me goodies in the mail--including scripture verses--to make me feel better. Then there is Don and Elaine whom I talk with fairly often; they too are from Morgantown and were in our wedding. They are so special to me and to Jack. And now, let me thank my precious cousin (in-law) Mary who lives in Florida. She and her group of prayer warriors have been so faithful to me during my years with c-diff. I am honored to be part of the prayer group. I ask God to bless Mary who is the most caring individual I ever met. There are so many praying for me including Thomas Kemp, a special friend and writer; Susan, Vince, Dan, Don, Steven, Michael, Shirley, Mary and Wayne my dear close friends, Richard, Mary Jane and endless others whom I love and appreciate.
For a time when I was ill, I tried to keep my book reviewing website going as it gave several people extra income. When the time came that I could no longer do my part, Melissa Brown Levine, took over as co-host for several months and did more than her share of work. I am so appreciative of how she helped out until I eventually closed down the site. If you need a writer or editor, look her up on google or Facebook.
A Little Advice Regarding C-diff
As mentioned, most disinfectants will not kill c-diff. Clorox is one that will so when Jack and I go to a doctor's office, we carry Clorox wipes with us in the car. We immediately use them on our hands when leaving the doctor's office. Also use them on your hands after using public restrooms. If you ever have to be admitted to a hospital, take a large container of Clorox wipes with you, using them frequently on your hands and any furniture or door knobs that you have contact with. I make it a practice of doing this as c-diff is spread in hospitals and nursing homes very easily and sometimes becomes an epidemic with all patients at risk.
Don't ask your doctor for an antibiotic if you have the sniffles or a viral infection. It won't help and could put you at risk for c-diff. If you have to take antibiotics, take a probiotic in the morning and evening and also eat a brand of yogurt that has live cultures twice a day. This is being recommended by many doctors.
The following information should prove useful to you:
LIKELY TO CAUSE C. DIFFICILE:
Clindamycin
Keflex
Ceftin
Ceclor
All other cephalosporins
Amoxicillin
Augmentin
MIDDLE OF THE ROAD:
Cipro
Levoflex (also Levaquin)
Tequin
Avelox
Bactrim
Erythromycin
Biaxin
Zithromax
SAFE TO TAKE:
Macrodantin (Macrobid)
Sulfa
Aminoglycoside
Flagyl (metronidiazole)
Oral and IV Vancomycin
By the way, I have tested negative for c-diff for a very long time and am not considered to be any more susceptible to "the beast" than you. My second cure--a last resort--gave me my life-saving cure. However, I continue to ask for prayer as I try to recover from the damage that was done to my weakened immune system.
Don't ask your doctor for an antibiotic if you have the sniffles or a viral infection. It won't help and could put you at risk for c-diff. If you have to take antibiotics, take a probiotic in the morning and evening and also eat a brand of yogurt that has live cultures twice a day. This is being recommended by many doctors.
The following information should prove useful to you:
LIKELY TO CAUSE C. DIFFICILE:
Clindamycin
Keflex
Ceftin
Ceclor
All other cephalosporins
Amoxicillin
Augmentin
MIDDLE OF THE ROAD:
Cipro
Levoflex (also Levaquin)
Tequin
Avelox
Bactrim
Erythromycin
Biaxin
Zithromax
SAFE TO TAKE:
Macrodantin (Macrobid)
Sulfa
Aminoglycoside
Flagyl (metronidiazole)
Oral and IV Vancomycin
By the way, I have tested negative for c-diff for a very long time and am not considered to be any more susceptible to "the beast" than you. My second cure--a last resort--gave me my life-saving cure. However, I continue to ask for prayer as I try to recover from the damage that was done to my weakened immune system.
Friday, October 2, 2015
Tell your C-diff Story and I will post it!
If any of you who are reading or following this blog have had c-diff, please send me your story so that I can post it. Whether you are in the 70 to 80 percent that get over it quickly or are affected as I was, your input would be appreciated. Together we can help others defeat the "beast" by taking precautions and by taking probiotics with antibiotics. Send your story to angel4authors@gmail.com.
If you wish to use initials only instead of your name or to have your experience posted anonymously, just let us know.
If you wish to use initials only instead of your name or to have your experience posted anonymously, just let us know.
Send Your Prayer Requests
If you are struggling with c-diff or health problems occurring after your c-diff was cured, my husband and I (along with our readers) want to pray for you. If you need prayer for any health problems, whether or not they are related to c-diff, we also desire to pray for you. Please send your prayer requests to angel4authors@gmail.com and include your first name only. If you don't want your name posted, we will list your request anonymously.
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