Ilkley meet up Friday 18th May

[Estellemac]

It was good to put names to faces at the meeting in Ilkley on Friday. I received a warm welcome from the group and quickly joined in the conversations.

I decided to drive across but encountered the usual A1 delays so arrived a little later than expected. I used to worry about that when I was working but it was such a nice day and scenery was delightful. As much as you can see when your behind the wheel that is. I have just regained my independence after a hip replacement only to be struck down with a hamstring injury last Saturday. Just one of the many inconveniences PMR, steroids and various other medications have on you body. I have to rebuild my muscle after being idle for over a year. Though I did enjoy Parker at my beck and call during that time it was nice to throw out the mobility aids and do what I wanted when I wanted. Thing is I only moved 6 inched when the muscle went!!! That's all it took. Being massively overweight doesn't help either. Anyway onwards and upwards.

One of the group told of how the anti-inflammatory diet she was following has helped her so I am going to look in to that as a start to getting some weight off and feeling better. Sugar is my main weakness. I know that has a huge effect on my arthritis too. I really enjoyed the story of how to eat a Malteser as a way to gain control over the food you can't resist and over indulge in. I must try that technique.

There was also the subject of having good gut bacteria. There was the offer of Kefir culture to make a prebiotic drink but I forgot to ask for it. So I have ordered a kit to make my own and see how I get on.

As I drove home my satnav took me on another scenic drive. I thought considering how miserable I have been since diagnosis, my hip falling to bits, being house bound and two flare ups trying to reduce the Pred and now the muscle strain, how fortunate I was to live in Yorkshire and be able to drive. My virtual friends from HealthUnlocked were very nice, the weather was good and I had social interaction with likeminded people who understood at lot of the issues I had to contend with over the last two years. I left with the feeling of contentment and a light at end of the tunnel. Thank you ladies. It was much better than a trip to the Doctors and more productive.

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What a great adventure, thanks for sharing! I think it was wonderful you were able to go and meet some of the people you see here regularly! Sounds like you got some good advice and suggestions too! I'm so happy for you!

[Rugger]

Thank you for those kind words! We really enjoyed meeting you too and putting a face to 'Lady Penelope'.

It was a lovely day for your drive and I can tell you revelled in the excuse to come and meet us in Ilkley and be independent. Another day off for Parker!

Glad you enjoyed Jane's Bliss Balls - only 3g carbs and 30 Calories each.

I hope the muscle in your leg soon recovers and you can soon get back on your scooter - yes folks, she's got a scooter - not motorised!

PS I don't think any of us said that some of the weight should go when you get to lower doses of pred.

PPS Dates just booked for 10 September and 6 December in Leeds - all group members will be emailed.