Greetings to all here, whether you are a PMR / GCA Veteran, Survivor, Newbie, Confused.com, or even the bloke / woman at the bus stop. Either way, I address this post to YOU LOT collectively... 
You might, or might not, suspect that my various BS ramblings here (careful now - by BS, I mean Bonkers Silliness) during the past 2 years-or-so of surviving PMR have been intended to amuse myself more than for any other reason. I am fully aware that laughing alone is the first sign of insanity, and so I rest my case. My Therapist is sympathetic - I pay her well.
That said: having recently reached the heady heights of both recovering (hopefully - we'll see..) from PMR AND being a published contributor in recent PMRGCA newsletters (Wow - what, me?!), I must 'bow' in greater recognition of the far more important contributions from those PMR / GCA Community 'Aunties', who tirelessly and relentlessly answer our various posts and queries of whatever kind around all things PMRGCA on an almost daily basis, whether relevant, sensible or otherwise.
Who are the PMR / GCA 'Aunties'? A relatively anonymous and modest bunch of Ladies (I use the term 'Ladies' in the most respectful way) without whose expert knowledge and personal experience of all things PMRGCA, the rest of Us Lot would often be 'in-the-dark' about how to negotiate the precarious process of understanding PMR / GCA symptoms, steroid tapering, dealing with (sometimes less-well informed) doctors and specialists, and much more besides.
But make no mistake - The Aunties aren't to be messed-with when it comes to challenging their expert advice and wisdom. Take it from one of Us Lot who has, occasionally, been on the 'wrong' side of them (!) with my various hypotheses and ramblings around the possible causes of PMR / GCA - and how best to manage them.
The Aunties here also have a great SOH, Humanity, and Compassion. They have massive insights into what we all experience with PMR / GCA: not least through their own, and equally very personal experiences of the ravages of these serious, and often Life Changing health conditions. The Aunties will tune-in to any of us, any time, and give us their objective and expert advice, regardless. Try to Trust them, even if you don't necessarily agree with them / their opinions initially.
As for the book of Silly Ramblings that a few of the more Bonkers of You Lot have (recklessly)? encouraged me to put together: all I can say is: 'Watch this Space'. It will be out soon and, as always, I blame You Lot for inflicting any co-lateral Fun on yourselves.
Best thoughts and wishes for the weekend ahead..
MB 
