Thank you

[PamOakes]

Just a pic of me & my li'l dog as I hate being faceless & just a quick thank you for lifting my spirits yesterday........you are all lovely people xx

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Pam, what a beautiful photograph of both you and your little four legged friend. I bet that "li'l dog" understands more of what you are going through and appreciates you more than all those inconsiderate people put together. Whenever you feel low, one of us is always around, and meeting up with a favourite friend for a cuppa and a chat can work wonders. Hang in there, you don't sound like someone who would be down for long. Virtual hugs.

[David_H]

Cute! Dog's nice too LOL! Dave

[PamOakes in reply to David_H]

Haha.......bless you Dave! That gave me a boost. Thank you

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I assume you've been told you can't possibly have PMR/GCA as you are too young? But there isn't a lot of face to be seen, what with hair and dog - so you're still only half a face But it looks very nice and friendly.

[PamOakes in reply to PMRpro]

Lol thank you! (How I wish I was too young!) x

[PamOakes]

Lol......thanks guys.......this was last summer before the pmr struck in December........after 2 months of the pain, stiffness & immobility the haggard look crept in.......& now the sweaty round face has come to join in with it all! I must admit my little 'flea' (as she's known as) is great for snuggles on the settee & yes! Has more time for me than the humans in the house lol. I am feeling brighter today thanks to you all. You are amazing xx

[Runrig01]

What a lovely photo of you both. Like PMRPRO says I'm sure you get many comments about being too young, I know I do. I was 46 when PMR started and will be 50 in July. If you are under 50, the guidelines stipulate you should be referred to a Rheumatologist for opinion. If you are getting referred, try and find out from locals or on here the name of a good Rheumatologist, my 1st one took 6 months to agree with GPs diagnosis, because of my age and normal bloods. We are spread out all over the country, so can often PM you some names. Good Luck, xx

[PamOakes in reply to Runrig01]

Hi, my lovely x GP wanted to refer me straight away but she was so knowledgable & understanding that I wanted her to help me manage this condition. Since my disastrous appointment at the new doctors I have now asked him to refer me (which he seemed only too pleased to do) I asked him to refer me to one that my sister has been recommended to. The GP says at 54 I am young to get this but nowhere near as young as you were! I am over 50 & it seems to be not so uncommon in our 50's. It's not been a very smooth ride for you though has it?!

Sending love & luck x

[Runrig01 in reply to PamOakes]

Glad he has agreed to refer you, and hopefully give your GP a taper plan to adhere to.

No I've had obstacles put in my way the whole time. 2 years after GCA symptoms started now have a confirmed diagnosis. However waiting for PET scan as I also have symptoms of large vessel vasculitis. 😗 got to remain positive 😃xx

[PamOakes in reply to Runrig01]

Oh it's so unfair & not very straight forward isn't it. Some of you have really been through the mill & I feel for you so much. Good luck & hugs for your challenges & hope you're on a smoother path soon

Best wishes always x

[Green_girl]

Flea looks adorable - can you rent her out to all the folk on this forum who are stressed and feeling very down please? She'd brighten up anyone's day ;-).

And I wish you a smoother journey through the maze. Speaking as one who is out the other side.....hang on in there and believe in your own judgement about what your body needs. Most of all look after yourself.

[PamOakes in reply to Green_girl]

Aww thank you, she is a little tonic on a down day ..........as you all are X