Hi, my name is Somebodyelse!

Somebodyelse

I'm a new member but I have so much to bring to the forum. Hopefully I can be of help to others as much as you can help me. These are terrible times for anyone living with a disability, whether it be physically or mentally. 
I have a condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis.The condition was diagnosed back in 1999. I have a couple of other problems, one or two genetic. 
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chiarieds

Hi @Somebodyelse - It's great to welcome you to this online community, which is both supportive & friendly. You will most certainly fit right in as many of us have varying disorders, yet share some common features, so help & support each other, so it's really good you also hope to help.

I also have a genetic disorder (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), which has resulted in osteoarthrosis. My understanding is that Ankylosing Spondylitis may also have a genetic component. What other problems do you have?

Is there any way you feel we might help you, as you mentioned this? Often other members here are able to offer help or advice. So, if you have any queries, please say.

Please also look around the forum, perhaps using the 'All groups' link on the right, or join in with the 'Recent discussions' link below. I look forward to your input in the forum.

steve51

Hi @Somebodyelse

Welcome to our online community/family.

I am also one of the Community Champion’s here at Scope.

I suffered a Stroke in 1998 at the age of 32.

This was caused by a rear condition (Brain AVM)

It has “reached havoc” ever since.

@steve51

emmarenshaw

Welcome to the community @Somebodyelse .

pollyanna1052

Hello! Nice to meet you. Like me, you`ve had your condition a long time. What are the genetic conditions? Best wishes.

Chloe_Scope

Welcome to the community @Somebodyelse! Great to have you with us.

Ami2301

Welcome to the community @Somebodyelse! How has your weekend been?

Somebodyelse

Thanks for the lovely welcome everyone. Yes, Ankylosing Spondylitis is genetic. I began a long journey of operations and strong pain medication back when I was in my late teens although it has taken until recently for a consultant to finally give me the diagnosis. I was told many things, from a slipped disc and pulled muscles to Fibromyalgia. The latter had been on my notes for years even though I hadn’t been tested or even had a consultation, never mind had it mentioned by my GP. I went over 5 years at my previous GP without them even giving me an examination. I just had prescriptions. Since I moved my new doctor has been awesome. I’ve has steroid injections and wonderful medication on top of a referral to a specialist who diagnosed AS. The other genetic problem is Hemochromotosis. My liver doesn’t process iron. It builds up to dangerous levels in my blood. I go for regular Venesections that keep it safe and under control. It had done some damage before it was detected though. Like many of us, we all get add in’s as I call them, we get down and depressed, usually from the effects of meds or the struggle of life. That can be tougher than anything sometimes, tough on us and the people around us. Everything has its knock on effects.

chiarieds

Hi @Somebodyelse - I'm pleased to read you eventually got some help & a diagnosis (or 2)! It also took me a long time to get my diagnosis. A locum staff health Dr I was seeing for lower back & sacro-iliac joint problems suspected this (but couldn't remember the name of it) when I was 20. I eventually looked into it myself, & met the founder of The Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome group, who lived nearby, who was sure I had it. Nonetheless it took several specialist appointments to get this confirmed. 

I'm surprised how many people here have more than one problem; I thought our family was odd when I found we also had neurological problems as well....

How are you coping at the moment? Please say if you have any questions too, & join in any other discussions. Thank you for saying more about yourself; it's good to share.

Adrian_Scope

Welcome to the community @Somebodyelse. I just wanted to say hi and hope you're settling in okay. Don't hesitate to let us know if there's anything we can do to help you fit in or find your way around!