LIVING WELL with FIBROMYALGIA Vol 2; Issue 2 by Fibro modem

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A B C D E F G H I J K L M

Acupuncture

Biofeedback

Curing Chronic Fibromyalgia 11

D-Ribose

Exercise

Family & Friends

Guaifenson Protocol

Herbal Supplements

Injections

Judicious Decisions

Ketamine

LEAP Therapy

Marijuana

N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Naet

Optimism

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Questions

Reiki

Shakeology

TENs Machine

Ummm...

Vitamin D

Water Therapy

Xyrem

Yoga

Zija

...and product reviews, poetry and much more.

What I have to say

email: fibromodem@fibromodem.com blog: fibromodem.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/FMawareness2012 Twitter: @Fibromodem Shop at: shop.fibromodem.com Editor: Simone Moszkowicz FibroModem welcomes your feedback, comments and any appropriate contributions to further editions. If you wish to contact FibroModem, please use the email address: fibromodem@fibromodem.com ÂŠ Copyright FibroModem 2013 The views and opinions expressed here are not necessarily those endorsed by FibroModem . Advertising policy statement FibroModem does not necessarily recommend the products and services advertised here. Please do not assume that anything advertised in these pages has been cleared, vetted or in some way approved by FibroModem. Please exercise your own judgement about whether the advertised service or product is likely to help you personally and, where appropriate, take professional advice from your doctor or health professional before purchasing. Advertisers Should you wish to advertise a product in this newsletter, please contact FibroModem at 3 admin@fibromodem.com.

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Terry Springer does NOT have Fibromyalgia – his wife Michele does. Fibromyalgia has impacted his family in a major way. Destroying dreams and turning the love of his life into a pain wracked mess. The most difficult challenge of his life was watching her suffer and feeling helpless and hopeless that nothing could be done. It made him sad… and then angry. Refusing to accept this and deciding to do something about it, Terry created the FibroTrack system.

The FibroTrack Crew!

I have a simpleThe question for you: (and Please: Seriously think about this.) more I learned though, the more I came to really understand why “Self-Management” is so important. to find people who hadare recovered. who were managing better? their fibro Do you just want toI began "Be" better....or youPeople willing to "Get" and had regained their lives. I looked at what they were doing. Not their specific treatments (I

The first implies an instant the transformation: toofsuddenly be better;but tothe beprocess cured,they miraculously understood individual nature effective treatment), were using. and immediately. POOF – You’re Cured! This is what we all want.

I understood why self-management works. Virtually every fibro advocate and expert out there Give me a pill and make the all go away, is screaming for patients to embrace thispain process. So we did! NOW!

A "Magic Pill" solution that cures all of your symptoms. If you have spent any time on any Fibro focused forums, chat boards or Facebook pages then you have seen all the postings from people desperately pleading for someone to tell them what the magic pill is. THERE IS NO MAGIC PILL. There is no cure. There is no one thing that works for everyone. There is no easy solution. Sorry, but that is the reality of Fibromyalgia. So that brings us to the second part of the question: Are you willing to Get Better? "Get Better" - this implies a process. This means that you have to do something in order to achieve the objective. You have to work at it. You have to manage it. It takes effort. If you refuse to accept that no magic pill exists and you continue to chase instant solutions, you’re unlikely to make progress. When you get to the point where you are finally SICK of it, when the pain and frustration overwhelms you to the point of despair - THEN you have a choice to make.

Am I willing to do what it takes to get better? Because you can! Make no mistake about it - Getting Better is not only possible, it is the most likely outcome from an effective self-management program. Terry Springer’s FibroTrack is available HERE. For more information and his website, please visit http://www.fibromyalgia-treatment.com/

Melissa lives with her husband, daughter & 3 cats. In addition to Fibromyalgia, she has 10 of its “evil sidekicks” as she calls them. She works full time, is a Girl Scout leader, and chauffeur for a 12 year old. She loves watching her daughter play JO Volleyball. She also enjoys her Aqua Zumba & Water gym classes, her online support group, her Facebook Page and writing her blog.

Mention the word acupuncture in a group of people and you will often see the cringe of a face or hear the response “I hate needles”. I would have had both of those reactions along with closing my eyes and commenting that “I can’t even watch medical shows with needles”. I have been terrified of needles my entire life - including the sewing kind that Mom would use to dig out a splinter. However, if you have been dealing with Fibromyalgia, you reach a point where you will “try anything” at least once. So with apprehension, and a lot of research, I decided to give it a try... Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years. Pain is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi within the body (pronounced “chee” in Chinese and “ki” (key) in Japanese. Qi is the energy that nourishes your body and circulates through pathways called Meridians. There are 14 meridian pathways traveling throughout your body. Each one is connected to an organ system (visit http://www.healing-with-eft.com/acupuncture-meridians.html for a wonderful explanation of the meridians). When Qi travels freely throughout your body, you can enjoy good physical, mental and emotional health. If restricted, it will affect your body to function correctly. How does our Qi become blocked? It’s like anything else in our lives: improper diet, lack of exercise, overworked, stressed - the rollercoaster called life. The needles are used to unblock any obstruction of Qi, strengthen your body, help with acute chronic pain, and balances in both the body and the mind. Removing the needles cause a release of endorphins (natural pain killers) into the bloodstream and removes energy blocks. What happens during an appointment? Preparing for the appointment is easy. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Make sure that you have eaten a few hours before your appointment. My appointment starts out with “Jesse” checking my tongue and pulse. OK? I thought that was a little strange. He is looking at the colour, the shape and the coating of your tongue. Check out http://www.yinyanghouse.com/theory/chinese/tongue_diagnosis to see the breakdown. Your acupuncturist will feel your pulse at the 12 main positions. Each position corresponds to an organ and meridian system reflecting the balance of Qi, the condition of your internal organs, and your general state of health. If there are any imbalances, they will appear in your pulse. The table is set up and depending on what we want to work on will determine whether I lay face up or face down. He then cleans off the areas that we will be treating.

Acupuncture needles are quite safe with each needle wrapped in a sterile package. Needles are hair-thin made of stainless steel with a copper grip. They are inserted into the skin and underlying tissues at specific points. It really is more like a tap. Once in a while, I will feel it go in but not very often. Once inserted, he will gently twist or tap the needles. He wants me to let him know when I start to feel “pressure”. There are occasions when I will feel discomfort and yes, there have been a few times when it hurts. The lights are lowered, soothing music is played, and a heat lamp is placed over me to keep me warm. He will leave me for about 1520 minutes and I lay there quietly, relaxing. (The first treatment - I fell asleep). He returns, will gently twist or tap the needles one more time leaving me for another 15-20 minutes. At the end of the time, he returns to remove the needles. They come out quickly and painlessly. Occasionally points like my ears or forehead will have a small amount of blood which he will uses cotton ball to swab over. Any bleeding has stopped even before I leave the treatment room. After the treatment he suggests that I go home, drink plenty of water and relax. My body feels so light and relaxed. When I first started going I went a couple times of week and then began to go longer between appointments. I currently go once a month – twice, if I am having a lot of problems with sleeping and high pain. You may require several sessions before you begin to notice a reduction in pain but everyone is different. The relief can vary in time as well.

A recent small study showed decrease pain and increased quality of life for fibromyalgia patients who had acupuncture therapy. I personally have benefited from the addition of acupuncture in my treatment regimen and highly recommend giving it a try. Melissa runs a Facebook page called Fibro Warriors ~ Living Life and, if you enjoy her writing, please visit her blog: This is My Life ~ Surviving Fibromyalgia.

Product Reviews by Summer Fenton Acupressure Mat There are several different manufacturers of acupressure mats. Most of them are just under $30 on www.amazon.com. The Nayoya Acupressure Mat boasts that it has 6,210 acupressure points for immediate pain relief of the back, neck, shoulders, hips, and joints. Nayoya states that it improves circulation, sleep, and digestion. For me, I found that it worked on my myofascia and the nerves. There are so many nerves located within the fascia. Freeing up the fascia helps improve the tightness and pain that I feel with fibromyalgia.

Kim Stowers was introduced to Fibromylagia when she was 21 years old. She was devastated when the symptoms took control of her life. As a passionate college student with an eye on graduate school, waking up every day with the pain and fog has been challenging. Her dream to become a research psychologist keeps her going. In the meantime, Kim lives life one breath, one flare-up, one nap, and one foggy effort at a time.

Do you ever feel helpless in the face of your pain? I think we all do at one time or another. Living with fibromyalgia can be exhausting for both the body and the mind. Biofeedback has made a tremendous difference in my management of pain. Yes, I still have pain every day, but I am no longer scared of it or controlled by it. Thanks to biofeedback, I am able to control my pain instead of letting it control me! What is biofeedback? Biofeedback is a way of training people to control bodily processes that normally happen without our knowledge. With biofeedback, you can learn to slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, equalize your skin temperature, and decrease muscle tension. All of this can be done with your mind. Wait, what? The idea of controlling your own body in such an intimate way may sound bizarre, but it is perfectly doable. With some help from a biofeedback therapist, some fancy equipment, and diligent daily practice you can become a mind-master in just a matter of weeks. You have more power than you think you do! So…How does it work? There isn’t complete agreement among researchers and doctors about how biofeedback works. However, it appears to be a matter of learning to relax properly. All of the things I mentioned above are characteristics of being in a relaxed state. Of course, relaxing is easier said than done, especially if you’re in constant pain. That is why successful biofeedback relies on guidance. Your biofeedback therapist will hook you up to equipment, lead you through mental techniques for relaxation, and allow

you to view your body’s activity on a computer screen. Over time, you will be able to see your own success as your vital functions slow down and you learn to relax properly. Eventually, you will be able to relax on your own! But how will it help me? Learning to relax properly has far-reaching benefits. Your body works less when you are relaxed, allowing you to breathe more easily, sleep more easily, and cope with pain more easily. In contrast, when you are stressed, your body can have a hard time relaxing, causing disruptions in sleep and daily functioning. For this reason, biofeedback has been found to be particularly useful in people who are experiencing high levels of mental and physical stress. By bringing the mind and body from a stressed state back to a relaxed state, many difficulties can be alleviated. People with fibromyalgia experience chronic physical stress through pain, making fibromyalgia patients great candidates for biofeedback therapy. At the same time, having such overactive pain signaling systems can make the journey more challenging for fibromyalgia patients than for people in the general population. The important thing is to be willing to practice and persevere!

What should I expect? You will be hooked up to several devices. Devices used in biofeedback therapy can vary with the therapist. You may have items attached to your fingers for measuring pulse, blood pressure, and skin temperature. You may have a probe attached to a shoulder to measure muscle tension. You may have probes attached to your head to measure brain wave activity, or a probe attached to your wrist for measuring skin conductivity. These items are non-invasive and usually held on with tape. But to a fibromyalgia sufferer, anything that touches the skin may feel invasive. If you feel too sensitive, try going to therapy on days when you are in the least amount of pain, or talk to your therapist about alternate ways of learning to relax. You will need to have several weekly sessions. Start biofeedback therapy during a time in your life when you know you can find a reliable way to go to therapy on a weekly basis. Each session will likely last less than an hour, but your therapist will recommend you come in for 5-10 sessions, or even more. You will need to practice every day. Biofeedback therapy is a type of training. You are training your body to learn new habits, and you are training your mind to take control. You won’t get far doing this once per week and then forgetting about it for six days. If you want to feel the long-term benefits of biofeedback therapy, you should practice what you learn at each session for several minutes every day following that session. What will I learn? The following are techniques I learned over a span of 5 therapy sessions. You can do them on your own, but it is easier to master them when you are hooked up to equipment and able to see how your body is reacting! Diaphragmatic Breathing: This is the easiest technique to learn. It involves breathing deeply and slowly through the nose while monitoring the expansion of your diaphragm.

If you are breathing properly, your stomach should expand more than your chest. Once you master this, you can take a true deep breath. Progressive Relaxation: This is a relatively simple way of learning the difference in how your body feels when it is tense compared to when it is relaxed. Simply tense each muscle in your body, one at a time, for 5 seconds, then let it relax for 20 seconds. Deep Muscle Relaxation: This is like progressive relaxation without the tension. Instead of tensing each muscle and then relaxing it, just relax each muscle one at a time. This takes a bit more skill than progressive relaxation, because you must be absolutely sure of what the feeling of relaxation in each muscle is. Once you truly master it, however, it can be a great tool during flare-ups and spasms. Autogenic Training: This is a more specialized way of interacting with your muscles. The goal is to warm up your muscles, especially in your extremities where blood circulation may be restricted. In the same way that you relax one muscle at a time during muscle relaxation, you attempt to “heat up” one muscle at a time by thinking of phrases that induce warmness. I like to think of sunbathing in 90-degree weather. Guided Imagery: This is the most advanced technique taught in biofeedback training. It involves taking all of the other things you learn and using your imagination to incorporate them into creating a “safe place” in your mind. For example, I like to pretend I am lying on a secluded beach, in hot weather with a gentle breeze. I feel the sun on each muscle, and then I feel each muscle relax. I feel the breeze as it comes into my nostrils and I take a deep breath. Peace at last! More Information Find a biofeedback practitioner: http://www.aapb.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3281 More information on biofeedback: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/biofeedback000349.htm

California-based author, Valerie Lumley, is a recovered fibromylagic who has turned her experience with Fibromyalgia into an inspirational tool for others who suffer from the disease. In her book, "Curing Chronic Fibromyalgia", she recounts her journey to discover the cause and a cure.

The clinical definition of chronic fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) when broken down is: chronic means on-going; fibro means connective tissues, myo means muscles, aglia means a painful condition, and syndrome means a group of symptoms. Its many symptoms are not shared by every sufferer, or in the same combination, however some are: body-wide pain, muscle spasms, fatigue and depression. Modern medicine offers no hope, saying FMS is a lifelong, degenerative disease with no known cause or cure and can only be managed with drugs with lousy side effects making you worse over time. My book creates a paradigm shift in understanding FMS by showing it is a curable, symptom itself: the natural effects of the ATLAS subluxation, and the subsequent brain-stem injury, cervical myopathy and spinal misalignments this subluxation causes.

The C-1 vertebra is called the Atlas vertebra because it holds up the head, just as the titan Atlas holds up the world in Greek mythology.

These effects are hyper-activation and hyper-sensitization of the central nervous system, distortion of regulatory signals from the hypothalmomus to and from the body, and the cascade of system-wide malfunctions of FMS. The ATLAS subluxation is caused by trauma, most commonly whiplash from motor vehicle accidents. Other traumas are: a jarring fall; a bump on the head; a twisting-lifting accident; lifting something heavy; poor head posture; a poor golf swing; carrying heavy babies; neck strain from a psychological trauma; general anaesthesia causing neck muscles to go limp, allowing the ATLAS to shift, and more. Traumas can compounded over years, often triggering FMS with a minor â&#x20AC;&#x153;last-straw injury.â&#x20AC;? FMS can also be triggered by major trauma. Compounding traumas to my head and neck beginning with a blow to the head and whiplash from an auto accident 35 years prior, and finally exacerbated by a minor exercising accident further displacing my ATLAS, triggered full-blown FMS, taking three years to completely disable me. I became bed-ridden from pain for nearly two years and housebound for ten. Knowing what caused it, I saw over a dozen doctors before I received a near-correct diagnosis. I brought my diagram of cause and list of questions to each doctor, and was dismissed. After leaving the care of the medical profession, I saw several chiropractors before finding one that could adjust my ATLAS. This was the turning point where I began taking my life back from this horrific disorder. I then developed my protocol for a lasting cure that is maintainable and real in alternative medicine and naturopathic therapies.

FMS sufferers must seek the care of an upper cervical chiropractor to get their ATLAS, neck and spine x-rayed and aligned. My protocol begins here and includes therapies that support healing and rehabilitating a degenerated body from the ravages of FMS. These include classical constitutional homeopathy, nutrition therapy, gentle physical therapies, psychotherapy and stress reduction, an optional dual-neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor for rebalancing two key neurotransmitters involved in pain and depression: serotonin and norepinephrine. In 4 years my body became FMS free. It may not take this long for others; I was an extreme case, my ATLAS being severely misaligned for 13 years, and the worst my chiropractor had ever seen. The medical profession and scientific community remain at a loss about a cause or cure for FMS because they know little about the science of chiropractic or how to read spinal x-rays for subluxations, and are therefore suspicious. Also, scientists who must quantify and measure everything cannot quantify and measure common sense. For example, both professions ascertained 90% of reported FMS patients are women, and 10% men, theorizing it may be that FMS is carried on female chromosomes, and triggered by female hormones and emotions. However, common sense dictates only 10% are men because they have stronger necks, shoulders and backs, being less vulnerable for head and neck trauma resulting in Atlas subluxations. This is missing the scientific boat. Another example is the psychologists view FMS almost exclusively through the lens of their specialty, commonly attributing it to psychological stress, somatoform pain disorders, and clinical depression whose criteria do not fully match or account for all possible FMS symptoms. The pitfall of specialties is viewing a condition through the lens of the specialty. The fact is, stress exacerbates any condition, even the common cold, however it cannot be concluded stress caused it. Stress exacerbates all FMS symptoms because it lives in the central nervous system. My book discusses chronic pain biochemistry, shows specific nutrition helps reverse energy deficit, completely clarifies FMS symptoms, debunks modern myths and theories of physical and psychological causes, and tells my story navigating the labyrinth of regular and alternative medicine to isolate the cause, and develop a protocol for a lasting cure. I have been FMS free for over three years. I spent ten years exhaustively researching and writing this book while healing this condition. It now enjoys endorsements from the International Chiropractic Association, the National Upper Cervical Chiropractors Association, the National Massage Association, the Oregon Health and Science Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fibromyalgia Information Foundation, and a FIVE STAR review on Amazon. FMS is a dark tunnel where its sufferers get lost in despair.

I want to stand at the end of this tunnel with bells and whistles, and shine a light bright enough for all to see. Valerie Lumley can be contacted via her website: http://www.thefibrocure.com/. Her book is available from Amazon on Kindle and in paperback.

by Judy Cox

I have been taking D-Ribose for about 5 months at the recommended dosage of 5 capsules in the morning. I often have to repeat the dose late in the day as I work long hours. It has given me back so much of my energy it has been really wonderful!!! I no longer need to go to bed at 7:30 every night. I no longer need a nap on the weekends. I can be up and about all day. Yes, I get tired, but I am not reduced to tears or find that I cannot climb 3 steps into my house at the end of the day. It has made me feel so much better that I have gone ahead and taken the plunge and am opening a new business. I have wanted to for ages but knew I did not have the energy to run a business on my own. Now I feel I can. I also have had much better work attendance, less anxiety, and a brighter outlook in general. D-ribose is a sugar which is used in the metabolising of energy in the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cells. Makes sense that it would help, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it?? I have also read that elite athletes use it to allow them to train harder and longer.... There is some research out there about Dribose and some holistic practitioners do recommend it for patients with fibromyalgia. It has worked for me. It is not cheap, but well worth the cost (about $18 American dollars for a 3-4 week supply via mail order.) My MD dismissed it as worthless if not dangerous (because of silica in the capsule). I have changed doctors. I have had no side effects from it. My husband says he has his wife back!

Exercise is one of the most-commonly prescribed treatments for people with fibromyalgia. A comprehensive exercise program includes three types of exercise. Flexibility training (stretching) reduces stiffness and keeps muscles and joints flexible. Strengthening exercises maintain or increase muscle strength, thereby reducing pain. Endurance or aerobic exercises strengthen the heart and lungs. They help lessen fatigue by increasing stamina. FM patients especially can help reduce their pain by experimenting with how they hold their body and how they move. Try different postures to find which ones minimize pain. Also, note how long you can maintain a posture without creating problems. Many patients find that staying in one position for an extended period of time increases stiffness and intensifies pain, so moving periodically can help you avoid pain. Limiting the length of time spent doing repetitive motions like chopping can help, too. Experiment to find how long you can work without creating pain and how long you have to pause before returning.

Shades of Purple Ringed black and blue visible wounding heavy bruised stain seeping into skin with tender throb of pain. But you wound internal pulsating deep Fibro' fingers prodding, poking, pain that always lingers. Morning stiff to greet the dawn making body stumble movement slow with risk of tumble. Purple prose swallowed down as limbs grind painful muscles sore, gait unsteady, awkward, shameful. Echoes of dark bleeding out of day escorting in the night with sleep-elusive sigh as body seizes tight. Purple-coloured robes draping royal and holy mantle of love covering aches and pains with grace from above. Shades of purple tinged with layers of faith, bringing strength and healing as God's heavenly light shines with Hope revealing. by Joy Fenton Joy is a wife, mother, M.E and chronic illness sufferer, poet and blogger who writes about issues of life and faith from a Christian perspective at Words of Joy

The common denominator with all chronic conditions (not just FM): those who are diagnosed with them tend to feel isolated: mentally and physically. It’s a huge blow to learn you will forever have an incurable syndrome that may affect mobility, lifestyle and independence. Research has shown that family and friends play a tremendous role in helping patients deal with a chronic illness. But sometimes it is difficult for a) you to let those people in, and b) for those people to know what to do help. Hands up if you never tell people how you really feel – then how are they supposed to know? Hands up if you never let anyone see you when you are having a flare – then how will they know what it’s like? Now, I’m not just blaming us – our friends and family (those that matter) need to make some effort, too. Tips for You (“the sufferer”):  

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Put an end to family secrets. Don’t try to protect your friends and family from bad news – communicate directly and openly with family members. Include your children – even though their understanding of the illness may be limited, children appreciate being told what’s going on around them. Be open and honest with them, and allow them to ask questions. Be selective about who you talk to about the illness. Choose carefully those with whom you’d like to share information about this illness. What matters is that sharing the information about the illness will provide a stronger sense of support and strength. Be clear about how friends and family can help you. People love to feel useful, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be your own advocate. Be brave, and learn to ask for help when you need it. Find a support group. Go to it. Take a family member or friend if you’re scared. It’s okay to be scared. There may come a point where you simply have to accept that you can never talk about your condition with certain people. It will be okay, even though it sucks. Some people simply cannot deal with a chronic illness. And can we blame them? Wouldn’t you walk away from your own chronic illness, if only you could?

Tips for Your Family and Friends (“the Family and Friends”):     

Be honest – all I want to know is that you are here and that you care about me. Be there for me in any way you can. Come to support group meetings with me. Family and friends are always welcome, and that’s the best place to ask questions you’re nervous about asking. Keeping it light and making jokes is okay. I’m not as fragile as I sometimes seem. It’s all about the timing and the presentation. Laughter is healthy. Let me know that I can always talk to you – even if it’s just a vent session.

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Always listen when I am frustrated – chronic illnesses are VERY frustrating. Be there if I need help, but also encourage me when I want to do it myself. Remind me, every now and then, that I am coping well. Treat me like a whole person – despite any limitations. I want to feel in control and capable, not as if I have SICK PERSON tattooed across my forehead. Learn about my illness. Ask me for more information. Remind me that you are thinking about me – send a card, an email, a text, a phone call. Offer specific forms of help – you might be able to pick up something from the supermarket for me, when you’re there. Offer to help research, if I want your help. Volunteer to watch my children. Take the kids out for ice cream or to a movie to give me some peace or during doctors’ appointments. Offer to drive me to places where I may need help – the doctor’s office, the supermarket, other errands. Offer to take me to the doctor and take notes for me. Encourage me to continue trying new things. When treatments don’t work, I get discouraged. Remind me that you’ll be there when I am ready to try something new. Just keep it generic, so I don’t feel like you’re being a know-it-all. Advocate for me.

DO NOT:  Don’t tell me how I “should” feel – Unless you have my illness, you do not know.  Don’t presume you know what’s wrong with me.  Don’t compare your (xyz) to my (abc). That’s like comparing apples to elephants.  Don’t discuss worst-case-scenarios unless I bring it up first.  Don’t suggest drugs or treatments someone you know takes. I am going through a treatment plan with my doctor – let the doctor take care of the medical advice.  Don’t criticise me for whining on a rough day.  Don’t give me medical advice at ALL, unless I have asked for help to research the illness.  Don’t downplay or belittle my condition in any way.  Don’t assume I cope in the same ways that you do. Let me cope in my own way. Don’t tell me that I am coping the wrong way.  Don’t say, “God will heal you,” it makes me think that you don’t understand.  Don’t bring up each “cure” that you’ve heard about. Sometimes I just need a break!  Illness isn’t just a matter of attitude. Don’t say things like “when are you going to get out of bed?”  Be sensitive to my limitations. I know my limitations, which may change from day-to-day. Don’t question that.  Never insinuate that I am “faking it.”  Don’t ever ask “How are you?” or “How are you feeling?” because the answer never changes and I don’t want to talk about it. Instead ask, “How is your day going?” or “Is there anything you need help with today?” *** If you need some basic information about FM, please feel free to download any of my brochures to give to family and friends. *** Perhaps watching a short video may help your friends and family understand more. *** If you are looking for a support group in your area, the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association has a list of world-wide groups (it is by no means complete; so if you have a group, please add it to their list) 16

Lyn Heath Van Bebber is married with 3 children and 2 dogs. She lives in the Central Valley, not far from Yosemite National Park in California. Lyn is a co-leader of a local guaifenesin recovery group; and manages Fibro(my)algia at www.facebook.com/myfibro.

My father died 29 years ago. I was 30 years old. I had 3 young children. I crashed. I couldn’t sleep. The pain began...My neck...oh my painful neck...My shoulders...My headaches...Two hours of sleep...Two hours awake...Two hours of sleep...Two hours awake...Exhausted... Scared.

What is wrong with me? Fast forward 22 years: What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia. Did Dr St. Amand write this book about ME? His theory made sense. In all these years, no one had an answer. He had an answer! I cried as I read. Front to back, twice. I am 52 years old. I visit Dr St. Amand. I am thrilled. I am scared. He listens to my history. He ‘maps’ my body. I’m crying. “My dear, why are you crying?” he asks. Through my tears I replied, “I was afraid you would tell me I didn’t have fibromyalgia”. He shook his head, hugging me as he informed me I was in the top 10% of his worst cases. The protocol seemed overwhelming at first. In order for the guaifenesin to work, we have to keep salicylates off of our skin. Our personal/beauty product ingredients need to be screened and our medicines/supplements can’t contain herbs in milligram strength or the guaifenesin will be blocked from working. We can’t ingest mint. Our toothpaste must be mint free. Tea is a powerful salicylate and will block the guaifenesin. ...Brain fog...Was I going to remember everything I needed to do? I ordered all new personal products from www.andrearose.com. Andrea has fibro and developed this company so foggy brained people like me don’t have to worry about salicylate ingredients. She became my guai protocol mentor.

The correct type of guaifenesin must be used. Our body needs 24 hour coverage. Two doses of single ingredient extended-release guaifenesin is required. I purchased the guaifenesin that Dr St. Amand has had the most experience and success with, from www.fibrofarmacy.com, so I knew I had the right one! The dosing instructions are another very important factor which many people skip, causing themselves major (unnecessary) pain and/or failure. We must find our “genetic clearing dose”. This step is crucial to success! I followed all the instructions as written. Salicylate free first. One week at the low dose. My symptoms did not increase. I raised the dose as instructed and stayed there. In one month, my left thigh had cleared. My genetic clearing dose had been found! I attained success. Hypoglycemia and carb intolerance affect 40% of us with fibromyalgia. Blood sugar fluctuations can cause many symptoms that over-lap with fibro. If you are in this 40%, the guaifenesin will still reverse the fibro, but you won’t FEEL better unless you address the blood sugar issues. I am carb intolerant. I followed Dr St. Amand’s Hypoglycemic diet perfectly for two months to heal my pancreas. Chantal Hoey Sanders, author of “I Have Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but it Doesn’t Have Me!” is hypoglycemic. The diet is a key component on her path to wellness. Her memoir is intriguing as she tells her story and outlines the steps she took to get from bedridden to better. I met Chantal through the online guaigroup support at www.fibromyalgiatreatment.com. The administrators there have all been on this protocol for many years. They volunteer their expertise answering our questions to help us do this right! After only 9 months on the protocol, I felt that, if I never got ANY better than I was right then, I would STILL take guaifenesin forever. I did get better...and better!!! Do I still have pain at times? Yes, once in a while as I cycle out deeper deposits that have been there for many years. Do I believe they will disappear like the others? Yes, I believe. The guaifenesin protocol is not a ‘quick fix.’ But it IS a fix without harmful drugs that may permanently damage your body. The guaifenesin protocol reverses the built up phosphates that Dr St. Amand believes cause our varied and expansive symptoms. When the lifetime of build-up has been expelled, we must keep taking the guaifenesin to keep the phosphates from building up again. Although it's not a cure, at least we can live our lives free of these symptoms by using a proven safe medicine that has been around over a hundred years and has no side effects. Fibromyalgia doesn't have to be a ‘life sentence.’ If you do the work and follow the steps as outlined by Dr St. Amand, it is my understanding that the success rate is as high as 98%! I continue to improve. I am close to being fully reversed. I don’t think about having fibromyalgia every day. I am Living Well with Fibromyalgia.

Wendy is a freelance writer and blogger, certified life coach, health activist, and chronic illness thriver. She spends most of her time writing for clients, researching and experimenting with new treatments, and taking care of her husband and her cat. She can be found at http://transformyourchroniclife.com/wordpress on Twitter at https://twitter.com/kimmieCollas and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TransformYourChronicLife

I've been using herbal treatments for my fibromyalgia almost exclusively since 2008 (on really bad days, I will add a couple of ibuprofens or acetaminophens.) I have to admit that at first it wasn't by choice (I lost my insurance, and all access to medications;) but after finally clearing all the drugs from my system, I would never go back to them. I actually feel better now, with no medication, than I ever did with the hundreds of dollars’ worth of pills I used to take every month. There are, however, some things you have to take into account before adding herbs to your treatment plan. Like any other fibromyalgia treatment, there are no guarantees that a particular herb will be the “right” treatment for everyone, or that it will even be safe for you. Herbs, used in medicinal amounts, can interact with other herbs, medications, and foods; and can make some illnesses worse. For example: skullcap lowers blood pressure, and if you are taking a blood pressure medication, the combination can lower your blood pressure to dangerous levels. It's also a sedative, and if you take it with pain medications or sleeping pills, it could suppress (or stop) your breathing. That doesn't mean you can't take it at all, it just means that you have to be very careful to do the research needed before adding any herb to your plan. I use a lot of different herbs, depending on what symptoms are the most annoying at the time, but there are some I use every day that I've found to be the most helpful (for me at least, your mileage may vary.) These are the ones I try to make sure I always have on hand: Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia): Skullcap is a mild sedative, a pain reliever, an anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic, as well as relieving stress and anxiety. (This one I only take in capsules, because it tastes absolutely horrible.) It helps me keep my pain levels manageable, makes it easier to sleep, helps with the “muscle twitching” and Restless Leg Syndrome, and also eases my stress and anxiety. There are some dangerous interactions possible with skullcap (see the previous examples for a couple,) and as with any kind of medication, you should always research how a new addition may interact with other treatments and discuss changes with a knowledgeable practitioner. (For herbs, an integrative or holistic physician is most likely to be helpful. Most allopathic doctors automatically say “no” to any unusual treatment.)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory, as well as having strong pain relieving properties. Studies have shown that it is better at relieving morning sickness and motion sickness that dramamine, is antibacterial and antifungal, reduces blood sugar, and also has blood thinning properties. Not only is it useful to ease the pain of fibromyalgia, it also helps with migraine (I used to have migraines at least twice a month, and since I started taking ginger regularly, I only have three or four a year.) In addition, using ginger tea instead of capsules will help to ease the nausea associated with migraines. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Related to ginger, turmeric has similar properties; with powerful pain relieving and anti-inflammatory actions, as well as being both antibacterial and antifungal. It is also high in antioxidants, and preliminary studies suggest it may be useful in the treatment of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, diabetes, and more. It appears to work synergistically with ginger, improving the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects when the two are used together. Ginger and turmeric should not be taken with prescription blood thinners or diabetes drugs without consulting a knowledgeable practitioner. In addition, they should be discontinued at least two weeks before any surgical or dental procedures to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, and medical personnel should be informed of their use in the case of an emergency.

There are several other herbs that I use frequently; including chamomile, catnip, lavender and rosemary essential oils, and black cohosh. There are hundreds of herbs that can be useful to ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia, many more than I can include here. Research is the key to finding treatments that will reduce your symptoms; whether they are herbs, medications, meditation, diet changes, some form of bodywork, or a combination of several different treatments. Only you can decide what to try, and whether or not something works for you. Note: Many people object to using antiinflammatories for fibromyalgia because there have been studies showing that muscle tissues tested show no signs of inflammation. There are no studies that have tested every possible site of inflammation, and it is possible that fibro has a systemic inflammatory process going on. My policy is, if it helps, use it, if it doesn't, stop.

Wendy is NOT a doctor, and is not qualified to give medical advice; however, in her research and experimentation she's found things that work for her. She does not advocate discontinuing treatment as she had to; and strongly recommends that if you wish to try alternative therapies in addition to, or instead of, accepted medical protocols; you do so under the care of a practitioner that has training in the area.

Product Reviews by Summer Fenton 5-Hour Energy Fibromyalgia can be downright exhausting. I find that taking even 1/2 of a 5-Hour Energy can help me function and feel better. I like that it has liquid B vitamins in it which seem to have a better absorption factor than the pill form of B vitamins. Also, malic acid is listed in the Energy Blend for 5-Hour Energy. There have been studies suggesting that malic acid is beneficial for FM sufferers. Be sure to check the label for the complete list of ingredients in case there are any ingredients that you may not wish to consume.

Trigger point injections (TPI) is an option many choose to treat pain. TPI is a procedure used to treat painful areas of muscle that contain trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax. Many times, such knots can be felt under the skin. Trigger points may irritate the nerves around them and cause referred pain, or pain that is felt in another part of the body. TPI is used to treat many muscle groups, especially those in the arms, legs, lower back, and neck. In addition, TPI can be used to treat FM and tension headaches. The technique is also used to alleviate myofascial pain syndrome that does not respond to other treatments. What Happens During a Trigger Point Injection? In the TPI procedure, a health care professional inserts a small needle into the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trigger point. The injection contains a local anaesthetic that sometimes includes a corticosteroid. With the injection, the trigger point is made inactive and the pain is alleviated. Usually, a brief course of treatment will result in sustained relief. Injections are given in a doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office and usually take just a few minutes. Several sites may be injected in one visit. If a patient has an allergy to a certain drug, a dry-needle technique (involving no medications) can be used.

The effectiveness of TPI for treating myofascial pain is still under study.

Janice Lind was a successful entrepreneur & owner/operator of multiple businesses until October of 2006, when she experienced several days of cognitive & language dysfunction & then fell into a semi-vegetative state for the next six months. In 2007, she was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Fibromyalgia. She tries to stay happy within the lifestyle that her illness requires & hopeful that a cure can be found.

J is for judicious choices. Judicious means prudent, or carefully considered. I had been chasing a diagnosis for five years in Hawaii. I had been offered diagnoses limited to one or another of my symptoms, but never all of them together. Each doctor in my HMO was a specialist and only considered a symptom if it related to their specialty. None had the authority to look at all of my systems and symptoms at once. The first GP I saw upon moving to Washington State seemed disinterested in offering me any help in treating my fatigue, but I chanced upon saying the magic words, “I’m so tired it hurts.” She referred me to a Rheumatologist who promptly diagnosed me with Fibromyalgia (FM) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). It was so exciting to have a diagnosis, especially because I was completely ignorant of both of these labels. Now I had a doctor who specialized in treating all of my symptoms at once! He offered treatment plans ranging from woo-woo alternative stuff to experimental treatments still in development. I was ready to try anything! “Just throw it all at me and we’ll see what works! ” The doctor calmed me down on this “all-in” approach by asking me whether I’d prefer he treat the pain or the fatigue. This was my first call to make a judicious choice. We started with fatigue on the gentlest treatment plan (“First do no harm”) in concert with a Naturopathic Doctor. I was advised to stop eating wheat and they took blood to look for my gliadin levels to see if I might be sensitive to gluten. Doctors are often stoic, so it was a memorable moment when the shock of the test results showed on his face. He wondered aloud how I could have numbers as bad as I did without having celiac disease diagnosed previously. Removing all gluten from my diet has been the work of years. It is amazing how much gluten I ingested without knowing it was there. I made a lot of mistakes, but have figured out a way to control my exposure to gluten: no processed foods and no grains. I don’t miss them. The gluten intolerance caused me to have Leaky Gut, which allows undigested food particles into my blood stream and my immune system responds, triggering inflammation and allergic reaction. My blood was drawn again to test what food particles were floating around in my veins, too large to be used as fuel by my malnourished body. I was provided with a very detailed panel showing scores for many dozens of foods from 0 (no response) to 4 (strong response). My new diet

allowed me 108 food items that scored a 0 on my blood analysis. I could eat specific combinations of these foods, but one food could not be eaten more than every fourth day. After two months, the diet became more restricted, with some high-starch foods removed to help combat an abundance of Candida. I was able to experience the joy of “normal” aches and pains and end-of-day earned tiredness when this regime was finished. The diet was restrictive, intrusive on my social life, and difficult to understand with my brain fog. I hired a professional shopper to buy what I needed, mark what day I could eat each item, and sort it into my kitchen cabinets. I had to prepare and eat food separate from my family. This took much of the joy out of eating. After four months, I was able to reintroduce some of the foods that had been rated 1 or 2 on my screening to see if they caused symptoms. Some I can enjoy on a limited basis and some I still cannot include in my diet five years later. Had I approached this diet with a “let’s see what works” strategy, instead of having the armor of blood tests confirming that these foods were creating problems for me, I would never have been able to stick it out. I am glad I spent the time, money, and gave the blood to make sure this diet was right for me. I am gladder still that I didn’t jump right into pharmaceutical options, because with my leaky gut, the outcome could have been disastrous. By learning the way my body functions (or dysfunctions, as the case may be), I am able to have some sense of control over the symptoms that affect me. By acknowledging my body’s sensitivities and weaknesses, I am able to interrupt the havoc those symptoms wreak on my life and family. Even though I cannot offer a cure, I have empowered myself through the use of judicious choices to alleviate the severity of many of my ailments, and to relieve myself of responsibility for those outside of my control.

Diary of a Ketamine Infusion October 11 2012: Because I was unable to wean myself off my codeine-based pain-

killers, my pain specialist suggested we (that’s me) should go forward with a ketamine infusion: Google time! Ketamine is used as an anaesthetic agent in high doses both in human and veterinary medicine; it is also known to be abused as a recreational drug. In smaller doses, it can be used to manage acute and chronic pain especially in those where the pain is so severe it is not controlled by other drugs. How will ketamine help? 

Pain-Relief: In the chronic pain population, ketamine is a useful drug, although it is not effective in every patient. The pain relief that can occur with a “short ketamine infusion” often “breaks the cycle”, and often lasts considerably longer than the infusion. In the case of nerve pain or complex regional pain syndromes (CRPS), ketamine has been reported to produce remissions in the pain and other symptoms lasting many months.

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Other: Ketamine can reduce withdrawal symptoms and make it easier to cope with reduced doses of other analgesics. There is emerging evidence that ketamine has an antidepressant action and that it can reduce compulsive/obsessive behaviours.

Double bonus on this one – hopefully, it will short-circuit my brain into causing me less pain, while helping me withdraw from codeine (AND while I’m sedated, I figure it might help to quit smoking, too!) How is ketamine administered? The ketamine is usually given either by an intravenous (we’re going this one!) or a subcutaneous infusion. What happens when the infusion begins? The infusion will be started at a low dose and gradually increased at intervals depending upon your progress and how well you tolerate the drug until the target dose is reached. A nurse will be checking your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure (too) regularly. The nurse will also be monitoring Pain scores and Sedation (sleepiness). The effects of ketamine vary with the dosage level and method of administration. At lower dosages the effects are mildly hallucinogenic and slightly stimulating. This type of use is often found at clubs and raves. At higher dosages, especially those administered intramuscularly, the effects tend to be more overwhelming. Although descriptions vary greatly, many users talk about alternate planes of existence, a sense of oneness with everything, expansion in awareness of time and new understandings of the fabric of reality and existence. Communication becomes difficult and movement can be nearly impossible.

Much disappointment followed as I had to wait until I saw the surgeon about my liver and gall bladder (just in case he says something like: To the hospital STAT!). It is totally understandable (this reasoning, I mean) but I am SO ready to try this treatment, especially after looking at some of the research done. This is what I want! And I want it NOW!

November 25 2012: Yippee! I go into hospital on Wednesday. The most common side

effects are a dry mouth and a ‘cloudy’ (that’s the word the literature uses) feeling in your head. There is even a chance of hallucinations, which are supposedly pleasant and not distressing, if you know to expect them. The hallucinations can be managed (with other medication) if they do become upsetting. Some people experience sedation (and I think that would be nice) but, in most cases, you can chat with family and friends. Dizziness is common, especially upon standing, and nursing staff are available to assist with this. The only side effect that scares me is that the infusion may not work. December 3 2012: So I am treading the waters of Ketamine and my head has cleared

the waves for enough time to jot down some notes. I am now up at 20mls per hour. I have gone through 5 cannulas (despite the fact that they should last 3 days) as my veins don’t like drugs being fed through them. And I am now having the Ketamine delivered subcutaneously through my tummy. (Don’t I sound all medically aware or something?) So, enough of the technical stuff… I am totally off my nut (but, at least, I know it). I lie here thinking of things, and, if I close my eyes, it happens in my head – but it is not hallucinations and I know what is real and what is not! And if the ‘what-is-not’ is bothering me too much, I call a nurse to give me some valium and tone down the agitation. My nurse is the person I have to rely on for the very basics, who I see most often. How do you explain to some-one, who doesn’t have (Australian) English as a first language that your thoughts are trapped in ping-pong balls, which are bouncing around your head, having a party and you weren’t invited? It is hard enough to explain to some-one who knows me well enough to vaguely understand what I’m talking about. I know I’m out of it – BUT I also know how I am feeling. I may not remember it later but I know, no matter how strange it might be, what I am feeling. And having someone look at me strangely, because they don’t understand what I’m saying, is not very reassuring to a drug F#@$ed individual. At the moment, as I have said, my head is clearer and I can understand others still sound like I am drowning in the drug, nurse when I tell him (jokingly) that I am to give any more autographs. Thank you.

is above the water – which means my head better but, supposedly says my Mommy, I which is not going to help my poor Filipino wearing my sunglasses because I don’t want

December 4 2012: 

Bing for My Nurse (MN) – tummy cannula hurting. Unknown Nurse (UN) arrives – MN is on dinner break: wait ‘til then? Sure, ok.

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Ketamine alarm goes off – empty bag. UN comes in, turns off alarm: will be back to change bag ...Alarm goes off again. UN returns: right back with another nurse (Ketamine protocol) ...Alarm goes off again. UN changes bag. MN will still come in after her dinner break.

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Wait 15 minutes – pain increasing. No, it is not the drugs making me feel things! Bing for MN: no-one comes.

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Get up to go to nurse’s desk. MN and I return to room to check out site. Need to change cannula site. Try 4 different places before finding good vein.

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Ice tummy site as all swollen, inflamed and burning. Feels like site is being torn open. Very hot! Ask to see member of the pain team ...Crying

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New Nurse (BN – Bitch Nurse) appears: Are you crying? Yes Crying will make you feel worse. I know, but I hurt – I would like to see a member of my pain team. We have paged some-one, now stop crying!

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8.30pm – ask BN for valium. Told to stop crying again.

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Between 10-10.30pm – Pain member arrives and prescribes antihistamine. Between BN and pain member, I feel like they think I am making up the pain; that I’m crazy but even I can see that my tummy is swollen, red, lumpy and burning hot.

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Midnight – ask for seroquil when vitals being taken ...1.10am – BN changes bag without another nurse (protocols?) ...2.30am – ask for another valium ...4am – BN takes vitals – hoping to just get through the night. Have never felt this kind of pain before ...7am – BN changes bag, still without another nurse!

8am – Morning nurse takes vitals – Yippee! I survived! The reason I wrote all of this down was because I seriously thought something major was wrong with me and that I was being held prisoner in my hospital room. I could have called Mommy to take me away but where were we going to go? A hospital? 

Supposedly, I had an allergic reaction – it could have been to the dressings, the cannula or the ketamine – and 24 hours later, I am still in pain (but much less, thank you). Just like I would never complain to a waitress before I had completed my meal (she might spit in my food!), I didn’t complain or make a scene but, needless to say, I have written an appropriate complaint to the hospital management. Gotta say – so far, I would NEVER, EVER do this again! December 14 2012: My headaches seem to have improved, which is fabulous, and not just because I am not allowed to take anything stronger than aspirin. Mommy say I look better (not just the ‘you don’t look sick’ look better) – the dead look in my eyes & sallowness of my skin has supposedly disappeared (I can’t see it!) The fibro fog has lifted. Everything is clearer – now I very aware of when I can’t find the right word. I really don’t know if that’s better or not. I feel like I have a lot more energy. The problem is that I don’t, so I have to re-learn the whole pacing thing, in line with my different pain and fatigue levels. My pain is different to what it was before – it is not there all the time anymore, but when it does appear, it seems stronger; and I never know when it’s going to appear, so it is just as unreliable. Oh, and ‘my hit by a bus’ feeling each morning upon waking has NOT gone away – in fact, sometimes (and I think today is one of those times) it is worse! The time it takes to become totally exhausted has been lengthened but there seems to be less onset time. Essentially, I don’t think I can tell you how it all is until I adjust to my new learning curve. EXCEPT my pain specialist has suggested we do it all again (not at the same hospital so no chance of the same nurses!) in a couple of months. He seems to think there may be a cumulative effect to the ketamine. I can’t even think about that yet!

Many patients suffering from fibromyalgia are completely unaware to what extent their food is playing a role in making them sick. The truth is, in inflammatory conditions such as fibromyalgia, often times food is causing the immune system to react through pathways other than the typical allergy. Non-allergic food hypersensitivities manifest in more chronic and insidious ways than an allergy, and produce a wide variety of symptoms. First it is important to understand the difference between an allergy and a sensitivity as defined in this article. A food allergy is classified as a Type 1 allergy and occurs through the IgE mechanism which releases histamine. This results in immediate, severe, and easily recognizable symptoms such as anaphylaxis. A food sensitivity, which is a Type 3 or Type 4 reaction, is also immune-mediated but does not involve IgE. Rather a Type 3 sensitivity involves antibodies that bind to antigens, and Type 4 involves cell to cell mediated reactions with no antibodies involved. Both Type 3 and 4 reactions result in the release of mediators which set out to destroy perceived invaders. These mediators can lead to damage and inflammation in our tissues, causing symptoms such as chronic fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, malaise, headaches, gastrointestinal distress, and many others. Most of us have heard of the mediator histamine, but Type 3 and 4 hypersensitivity reactions involve the release of about 100 different mediators, including cytokines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and many others. It is for this reason that many of the

Alyssa Chicci is the president of Nutrition Resolution, LLC which provides individuals looking to improve their health with the knowledge and tools they need to create health in their lives. She provides products and services which move people from the nutritional status quo of our surroundings that promotes disease, to creating health in their lives through a restructuring of their environment and habits. After working for 9 years as a dietitian in hospitals, long term care facilities, fitness centers, a community health center, and a managed care organization, she quit and started Nutrition Resolution, LLC. Her experiences in a variety of settings provided her with a broad perspective and lead her to gain additional certifications so she could specialize in the areas she is passionate about. Now in private practice, she provides oneon-one coaching and nutrition therapy, as well as group programs for individuals seeking general wellness, weight loss, diabetes education and support, and relief from the chronic and destructive effects of food sensitivities.

current food sensitivity tests on the market have minimal clinical utility. If we are only testing histamine, or IgG, for example, we are only getting a fraction of the picture. The MRT test is an end-point assay. This means that it does not test the amount of any single mediator that is released when the blood is exposed to a potential antigen, but it

tests the sum total of any and all immune mediators released by measuring the change in volume of liquids to solids. This allows the clinician to see which foods and food chemicals a patient is reacting to, and to what degree. Most importantly, it allows the clinician to build an anti-inflammatory diet which includes only the least reactive foods so the patient gets well in a very short period of time, usually 7-10 days. As a dietitian, the use of the Mediator Release Test, or MRT, accompanied by the Lifestyle Eating and Performance therapy protocol, or LEAP, has transformed my practice. No longer do I accept the widespread belief that patients with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or migraine have no option other than to suffer. MRT and LEAP has completely changed the lives of thousands of sick patients, many of whom were unable to find relief through standard medical treatments. Patients see a significant decrease, and often a total elimination of their symptoms when the LEAP therapy protocol is implemented properly. The LEAP protocol involves a 6Phase elimination diet which first requires consuming only the lowest reactive 20-25 foods according to MRT results, which is followed by 4 phases of oral challenge to safely and systematically test higher reactive

Product Reviews by Summer Fenton DEEP SLEEP Comforting Milk Bath Float by THE BODY SHOP

This stuff is like a sleeping pill for use in the bath tub! Seriously, be careful as I have started to drift off in the tub. It is great for relaxing the body and mind along with preparing you for a nice deep sleep. Just make sure you get out of the tub and move yourself to the bed; it is that sedating. It is definitely a staple in my fibro flare toolbox.

and untested foods one by one. Patients see most of their relief within the first phase but continue to see relief through the oral challenge phase as their immune system calms down. By the end of the program, the patient often feels better than he or she has in many years, and has learned how to rotate their safe foods to prevent new food sensitivities from occurring. The MRT test can be ordered by a doctor, but because of the many intricacies involved with following a food sensitivity elimination diet, the test results alone often do not produce desired results. It is important that the MRT results are combined with the proper implementation of the LEAP protocol with the help of a Certified LEAP Therapist, or CLT. A CLT is a Registered Dietitian who has had additional training in immunology and has completed the certification requirements to provide LEAP therapy. Alyssa Chicci is an RD and CLT, and provides LEAP therapy nationwide (USA) via telehealth. Her first step in working with a patient is to do a 20-30 minute assessment to determine if food sensitivities are likely the cause of the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s symptoms. If she believes LEAP therapy will help the patient, the blood test can be ordered long-distance through Oxford Biomedical Technologies. Along with the test results, the LEAP program includes a 50 page report containing a personalized diet plan, common hidden sources of reactive foods, additives and chemicals, reactive food alternatives, menu ideas, and much more. Alyssa then provides ongoing LEAP therapy counseling for 6-12 weeks to guide the patient successfully through the program. Counseling is provided in person and over the phone for local patients; and via phone and/or Skype for distance patients. Alyssa offers a free 10 minute phone consultation to answer questions and provide direction for patients who are seeking solutions to their ailments.

We all need to find our own path when it comes to our health and wellness. While some may choose to simply follow “doctor’s orders” with prescription drugs, others may look for a more natural alternative. We are all on a different journey, but Fibromyalgia sufferers around the world are awakening to the fact that there are alternatives to pharmaceuticals and the possible issues surrounding them. We are all responsible for choosing the treatment that works best for us and it is only through knowledge that we can all achieve this. As we all know, doctors will often prescribe Narcotics. In addition to possible addiction, narcotics may cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, weakness and dry mouth. They also mask the pain and don’t get to the bottom of the problem and therefore are only recommended for short-term use for a longterm ailment. My body always feels like it is buzzing. It’s kind of like loud static on a radio but in my body, just one of the great things about Fibromyalgia. (sarcasm). White Widow, a cannabis Sativa strain, works the best for me. It turns the noise (buzzing static) down. Vaporizing calms my nausea. I've tried everything for nausea I even wore motion sickness bands for a year. Ginger Gravol, you name it, I’ve tried it but I read vaporizing could ease nausea and last time I was sick I tried it and it worked. I also use medibles. Tazo chai mix with cannabis milk is one of my favorites. I have found that taking glycerine oil throughout the day also helps. I have managed my pain for more than 20 years with the use of cannabis. I use it several different ways on a daily basis. I believe, and I always will, that I get through each day of my life thanks to Cannabis!

Barb Kolterman, Edmonton Moms for Marijuana (Alberta, Canada)

Diane-Marie Williams was born in Vermont, and raised in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, Canada. She is engaged to Michael Dussault-Jensen (the most wonderful man in the world). Diane-Marie was diagnosed with FM in 2010. She is the Executive Director of Administration for Moms for Marijuana International

Then there are the Muscle Relaxants, often prescribed to help with sleep and to deal with pain. They are also known to be addictive and may cause drowsiness, mood swings, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, anxiety, muscle weakness and speech disorders and again are not recommended for long-term use. Many Fibromyalgia patients suffer from sleep disorders and therefore find themselves being prescribed Sleeping Pills. They problem with sleeping pills in addition to being addictive is the “knock you out” feeling you get. Although it may be welcoming to our often very fatigue and tired bodies is does not give us the rest that we actually need. Your body needs to get the deep restorative sleep to repair itself and your brain needs to go through a “natural” sleep cycle. Sleeping pills interrupt this natural cycle and the brain is only tricked into thinking what the body knows to be untrue. Let us not forget what doctors prescribe most often, Lyrica. Lyrica has often been described as the “miracle drug” and was the first federally approved Fibromyalgia medication. Although its acceptance brought Fibromyalgia to the surface as a “real condition,” it too has its downfalls. Lyrica may cause swelling, weight gain, dizziness, sleepiness, and decreased concentration. While some many find relief, it may not work for all patients.

Choosing the path to wellness is a personal choice and one that should never be based on the influence of another person, not even your doctor. YOU need to do what’s right for YOU. Before cannabis I was taking Neurontin, Myrapex & Flexeril. Those did nothing for my pain & I was then switched to Valium, Vicodin, Percocet cocktails & all that made me was a walking zombie. I found cannabis & was then able to get on with my everyday life without awful side effects from medications. For me, Laughing Buddha has been the best at relieving muscle & tendon tightness, cramps & also clearing brain fog. I prefer to bake my meds into cookies so I can have a quick snack & get on with my day &I also make coconut oil so I can cook with medicated oil. My favorite is breakfast sautéed kale, onions, mushrooms & eggs in coconut oil with some seasonings because it gives me a good dose of medicine to get me through the better part of my day & is loaded with healthy yummy foods. I feel cannabis has given me my life back! I can play with my children & not have to lie around from being in too much pain or too out of it from heavy narcotics. I have been offered Lyrica & Savella from my doctor but I prefer to stay with cannabis because I don't have to fear what side effects I will experience & I know my medicine is natural. As someone who works in the medical field, I wish our society would be better educated about the many medicinal uses of cannabis so we can heal the sick rather than poison them with pharmaceuticals. Manna Le Plante, Oregon Moms for Marijuana (USA)

The treatment you choose is totally up to you, but it is of the utmost importance to find one that solves the chemical, structural, and emotional components that are the root cause of Fibromyalgia. You need to break the cycle of pain, not just mask it. When I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, prescription drugs were not an option I had always chosen a more natural approach to my health, taking any narcotics wreaked havoc on my body. No matter what the doctor would prescribe, my body reacted in spasms

Jennifer Collett Kawartha Moms for Marijuana (Ontario, Canada) My name is Jen. I have Fibromyalgia, but it doesn’t have me. Not anymore. My medicine is Cannabis. My opinion was easy to form after trying a dozen or so of the best medications available to me. I tried everything legal to relieve the unexplainable and constant pain, followed by the depression, anxiety and exhaustion. I can’t ignore the anger at people in my life, who didn’t understand, what added to the development of PTSD. If only I had known about Adrenal overload . . . or the Endo-cannabinoid system. I found so much benefit from using cannabis as my medicine, that I credit it with a good portion of my transition back into health. I had great tools like relaxation therapy, autogenic training, meditation and visualization as complements to cannabis, all working together. My success was so that I continued my education with Complementary Healthcare & Neuropsychological Immunology. My journey started over a decade ago and it’s not over yet. I am the mother of FIVE beautiful children. I struggled to juggle work and family needs. Now built around my health and family, my business has developed in a staggered fashion, but successfully into rehabilitative massage and healing work, that uses the very plant that helped me regain my life…Cannabis I hold three Diplomas, which I am proud of and run a household of seven plus a dog with all of the same health concerns, and fewer problems. I combine Cannabis and Complementary Health in my endeavors to find my balance and there are many others like me. I sit now in 2013, writing this to you. I can only hope it will do you some good. Pass the flame. Light and Love. Blessed be your journey.

and violent vomiting that left me sitting on the floor in the washroom for hours. Not a pretty picture. I knew I had to find a more natural way to live with my Fibromyalgia. My fiancé, who had once been on 18 prescriptions for diabetes, heart disease, spinal stenosis, degenerative

spinal disease and osteoarthritis, had found that Cannabis worked best for him and was now on 2 prescriptions daily. He was in the best health I had seen since the day we met. I decided that trying cannabis would be my best option. Joy Davies Executive Director - Canadian Medical Cannabis Partners, BC Chapter I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2000...3 years after a car accident where a young man ran a red light & broadsided me. I was put on 13 different prescription pharmaceutical drugs & spent most of my time in bed & feeling like a zombie when I was out of bed. My body does not like chemicals of any kind & medications were no exception. 5 years "lost" & no relief from my fibro symptoms. Some of those prescription drugs now have class action suits filed against the pharmaceutical companies due to the "Harm" they did to people. At the time I knew NOTHING about cannabis other than is was to get "high" with. I was not a recreational smoker or cigarette smoker so I was resistant when, in 2003 friends brought me a few "joints" & told me it was medicine BUT I did smoke a joint. It made a difference. My high level of pain dropped within a few minutes. It didn't happen all at once but I am now off all prescription pharmaceuticals & cannabis is my only medicine. I vaporize & use baked cannabis products. I am saving for a masticating juicer so I can juice the leaves. I want the medicine... not the "high." My consumption has dropped from 5 grams per day to 1 gram per day. I have a life. I play with my grandkids. I am VERY involved in my community. I was elected to city council & served my community for 3 years. I am an activist for medical marijuana & want to be part of the solution to change the system. I am alive because of cannabis when others with Fibromyalgia have committed suicide as they could not cope. They were denied the information of this healing plant & lost hope. Fibromyalgia is not a terminal illness, it will not kill us but there were days I wished I would die. Until our governments have a paradigm shift & design government systems to provide dignified, safe access to this innocent propagandized plant... I will remain a medical cannabis activist.

Within days I could feel the improvement. I had more energy, I had an appetite and I was sleeping better than I had in years. I found myself researching everything I could find on cannabis, how it worked naturally with our bodies, how there was little to no side effects and the many different ways to use it. I learned I didn’t have to smoke it which was my biggest delight. I could cook with it, there were creams, oils and balms out there, and vaporizers were a new way to relief. My biggest discovery was “raw juicing”… I could put raw cannabis in smoothies and get pain relief without the “high”. This I am looking forward to. I am a medical cannabis patient and cannabis has given me back my life without the horrible side effects I got from prescription drugs. Cannabis is a safe and healthy alternative and integrative medicine. It may or may not be right for you. That remains a very personal choice. One only YOU can make. Cannabis is a natural supplement to your body’s own Endo-cannabinoid system and worth researching.

Fran Elliott lives in Park Orchards, Melbourne, with her husband, Jeff. Together, they convert vehicles into wheelchair access passenger vehicles. They have 2 teenage kids and two deer hound puppies.

I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in October 2010. I have tried changing my diet, rehab (which worked for a while) physio, myotherapy, Bowen therapy (I get a bit of relief with this) but nothing was really helping. I may have Fibro to a lesser degree to some people and the reason I say this is I am still able to go to work. Now whether that is me being very, very stubborn and not giving in or the fact that I don't always have pain - I am not sure. After having a bad flare up, I went to see my Bowen Therapist and she does what she can to help me at the time, she also mentioned about a treatment she was undergoing for something completely unrelated. It’s called NAET and she said: Fran, I think this could work for you. Me being me, I put it off for a while and then I decided ‘oh well what have I got to lose, I have tried everything else I can think of and that has been suggested to me.’ I want to share with all who read this awesome newsletter what NAET is and how it has helped me...

NAET is a treatment that started in America – the initials stand for Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Techniques. There are practitioners in

Australia and the UK (Over here they are not allowed to say it eliminates allergies for legal reasons) So, there I am I am looking up all this information on it, thinking that I don't have any allergies and how is this going to help. Well, guess what, guys? It works out that I do have allergies to foods and they are not helping my fibro. The treatment is not painful: there are no needles or anything put on your skin for a while to see if you have a reaction. It is purely having everything tested using Kinesiology. My specialist Maria takes a photo of your eyes and reads them using iridology techniques. She uses the information from the photos and the background information that I have given her to treat me. I am about 2 months into my treatment and already I am starting to have less flare ups. So far I have been treated for sugar, eggs, lactose (I knew I had an issue with that one!) and we are working on grains and wheat at the moment. Wheat, gluten and some grains can contribute to fibro flare ups but, with this treatment, it will mean I can eat these items if I choose to and not have to worry about having any pain etc. It can be frustrating how long it can take to pass some of these substances but it just means it’s a really big issue for your body.

I am finding after going through sugar which, for me, took 8 treatments, I feel loads better: I have lost some weight and when I have a flare up I know what has caused it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as though now that I have passed one or two items, I can pinpoint the trigger better now. With me, stress is a big factor and unfortunately, while I still work in a stressful job, I will continue to have flare ups, but I now know the difference between having a flare up caused by stress or by something I have eaten. I am not saying this treatment is the magical cure we have all been looking for all I am saying is if you are stuck, give it a go - it might just help to make it less worse for you. I know it has helped me. NAETÂŽ was discovered by Dr Devi S. Nambudripad in November of 1983. Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET) are a non-invasive, drug free, natural solution to alleviate allergies of all types and intensities using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, chiropractic, nutritional, & kinesiological disciplines of medicine. One allergen is treated at a time. If you are not severely immune deficient, you may need just one treatment to desensitize one allergen. A person with mild to moderate amount of allergies may take about 15-20 office visits to desensitize 15-20 food and environmental allergens. Basic essential nutrients are treated during the first few visits. Chemicals, environmental allergens, vaccinations, immunizations, etc. are treated after completing about ten basic essential nutrients. NAET can successfully alleviate adverse reactions to egg, milk, peanuts, penicillin, aspirin, mushrooms, shellfish, latex, grass, ragweed, flowers, perfume, animal dander, animal epithelial, make-up, chemicals, cigarette smoke, pathogens, heat, cold, other environmental agents. It may take several office visits to desensitize a severe allergen. NAET utilizes Muscle Response Testing (MRT) which indicates kinetic imbalances in the body caused by allergens. It is safe for everyone from infants to the elderly. The best part is that the program is pain and side-effect free!

Do you know? Do you understand? Can' you be there? The pain, suffering, changes in ones life, almost to much to bare. I hurt, do you know why? Do you care to know? Often not, tired of hearing about it, on your face it shows.

Danny De Lauwer

Support is not always easy to find, Others who know it isn't just in my mind. To many feel it is just in my mind, If you had it you would know, and be more kind. Don't look at me as lazy, Also, don't look at me as I'm crazy. Just pray, and always be my friend, just stay. Stay here, through the good and bad days.

Elizabeth Rightor is family therapist, artist, and believer of whole body medicine. She lives in Seattle with her dog, Luna. Both her healing work and her art are inspired by her love of nature.

This is what I know: we are in this together—although we may not know each other personally, we are linked by our hopes, fears, and challenges of journeying towards wholeness. When I agreed to write this, I thought I would be able to jot down a few tidbits on optimism. I am a therapist for a living; that’s what I do. I wasn’t planning on talking about my health or my struggle to maintain optimism while being ill. Yesterday, something broke me open. I can't write about maintaining optimism, ask you to follow along with me, and not tell the truth. With this realization, I came face-to-face with some big demons, like the shame I have felt for being ill. In her book, Mind Over Medicine, Lissa Rankin, MD discusses how fear affects our bodies and how its opposite, the relaxation response, can increase health outcomes and chances of remission, even in chronic and “uncurable” conditions. Shame and fear share similar physiological effects on the body. They cause constriction of the heart, mind, and body. The good news is that the “relaxation response,” which activates our bodies’ ability to heal, can be triggered by things such as meditation, time with loved ones, acceptance, creativity, pleasure, and optimism. (You can see how my shame around being ill conflicts with desired health.) I have been ill for several years. I have seen countless doctors and have tried everything within my power to get my old life back—a life filled with energy. I ran though life as if I had no limits; I acted like superwoman. Then all of a sudden, the life I knew ended. Just like that. I couldn't get out of bed; I couldn't function. I went many months living the dark side of the hermit archetype. I became isolated and felt I was dying. Then, thanks to some amazing healthcare practitioners and a lot of internal work, I had an opening where I gained a few hours each day--enough to feed myself and get to work and come home. But, I have lived a double life. There is the part of me that enters the world, sees clients, and has the appearance of a full life. Only those closest to me know how each day can be a struggle or that there are many days I cannot get out of bed. I have lived the spoon theory, carefully calculating energy expenditure and recovery time. Coming from a place of utter depletion, sometimes having a friend come visit me would push me too far. What I have learned is to see the openings when they arrive. I remember the first time I was able to go for a walk by myself at the park. It was an absolute triumph—a true opening. We have to notice those small miracles when they happen to retain hope. After I went for that walk, I have been looking for the openings, however small. “I got to see a friend. I was able to eat at a restaurant. I drove myself to a doctor’s appointment.” The more I listened to my body's messages and did what was best for my heart, the more the openings

increased. With the help of some serious immunosuppressants and other healing work, the brain fog cleared enough I could hold onto positive thoughts. I decided I want to live. In order to write this, I had to face the shame I have carried for being ill and not wanting others to know. I thought that if people knew, they would see me differently--as damaged or less than. I even feared my clients wouldn’t want to see a counselor with health issues. Little did I know, my journey is actually very helpful to them, when I am open and vulnerable enough to share it. There have been many lessons on this journey: having good boundaries and ending patterns of overextension that had been there for most of my life. I just can't push anymore. What I have been learning is how to be present with what is before me. My journey becoming whole again has shown me that illness and symptoms may be a part of my life going forward, but they are not me. Being ill has also led me on a journey of self-discovery in terms of creative expression, belonging, and what my heart needs to walk forward. In taking each moment, each day, as its own journey, I can create a new life for myself. I don't know if I will ever be able to do the things I once did--go hiking, eat tomatoes off the vine, or participate in all-day events. However, the more I am open and optimistic, the more I believe anything is possible. Lissa shares about facing the unknown, There’s a beautiful gift on the other side of the fear of uncertainty. When you finally make peace with your fear of the unknown, you discover something magical, that on the other side of uncertainty is possibility, potential, and the magical realization that anything could happen—even miracles. She adds, “If you can heal yourself and become whole, anything is possible. When you become whole, you make your body ripe for miracles, and unexpected health outcomes just might happen to you.”

Progressive muscle relaxation is an excellent choice for fibromyalgia patients because it is so easy to do. You can do it while sitting in a chair or when lying in bed, whichever is the most comfortable for you. Progressive muscle relaxation works on all major muscle groups in the body. It helps to reduce tension and work out your muscles at the same time. Progressive muscle relaxation requires no equipment and can be done by all age-levels and abilities. This technique reduces stress and tension by helping you to focus on particular muscles in your body. You begin by tensing the muscles in your feet. Hold this contraction for 8 seconds or so. Then release the tension and relax. Continue tensing all the major muscles in your body, right up to your head. By the time you have finished, you will be completely relaxed.

NEXT ISSUE...INTRODUCING Joshua David Joshua will be joining us for regular articles aimed directly at men! Yes! Men get Fibromyalgia, too!

Cathy Madsen is a single mother of 2, with one living at home in Bundaberg, Queensland, who is 15 and has Aspergers. She has just started home schooling with him. After Cathy’s diagnosis of arthritis and Fibromyalgia four years ago, she retrained as a phlebotomist and is working part-time in a job she loves.

Questions, this should be easy... I had lots of questions... oh, hang on... 800 words? But I have had so many questions that I asked that I could write 8000 not 800 words. I had medical ones, personal ones, rhetorical ones, angry ones, I questioned my questions, I had doubtful ones (maybe I was just imagining being sick) so many questions that once I sat down and started thinking about what to write I realised how confused and scared and even lonely I was. So what could be the best place to start? Medical questions maybe? How to manage yourself when preparing to see your doctor? Brain fog is probably the worst thing we experience when it comes to visiting our doctors. You go in there with all these questions and walk out with none answered. It happens to all of us at some stage of the diagnosis and management of fibromyalgia. I can remember the day I walked into my doctor and spent 20 minutes crying and saying that I didn’t feel well and didn’t know what to do, my doctors was wonderful and caring and supportive. However when I got home after that visit I realised that I had not had not asked one question that was in my head and as the week following passed I was struck by what a wasteful visit that was and I was no closer to knowing what was wrong. I decided to make another appointment and this time I would make a list of all the questions I had. I made the appointment for two weeks ahead to give myself time remember all the questions. I also kept the note pad in my bag and made the notebook a larger size pink one. I tend to forget where I put things and I often have questions pop into my head when I am not at home so I needed the notebook to be highly visible, easy to find, and always on me. I also had problems with pens... they seem to always go walkabout so I tied this one to the notebook. My diagnosis was a few years ago now and smart phones and electronic notebooks are more the go now so I would even suggest that you use your device if you have one. Along with questions make notes relevant to that question, how you felt at the time, what triggered this feeling or sensation, what were you doing at the time, how long did it last? I never remembered all of those fine points and found that when I asked a question the doctor nearly always asked those questions in return. Your doctor will need as much information as possible to help get to a diagnosis. I do have to say that I have arthritis so I was seeing my doctor and my rheumatologist; my problem was that some of my symptoms did not fit the list of symptoms for my type of arthritis and medication was not fixing those symptoms. I was feeling better in my joints yet my body ached from top to toe and the fatigue was unbelievable. Do not be afraid to take this list into your doctor or specialist and say “these have” and take the list out and go through them one by one. When I did this attributed these symptoms to my arthritis but I was not convinced, something my gut feeling was there was more to the situation. She suggested I ask the made another appointment to see him.

are the questions I with my doctor she did not add up and rheumatologist so I

I can remember the three week wait to get in to see him felt like a three month wait. The day finally arrived and I took my trusty list into the appointment and rattled off the symptoms.  Severe fatigue  Aching all over  Loss of strength ( I could not even hold a phone to my ear)  Numbness in my arms from elbow to hands  Forgetfulness  Painful sleep (felt like I was sleeping on rocks)  Sore feet  Hot hands and feet Without hesitation he said “oh, you just have fibromyalgia; a common co-morbid occurrence that I often see.” He also told me I probably have a bit of Chronic Fatigue as well. Hopefully it will fade; some people have it for life and for others it is only temporary. I now knew what was wrong with me and no, it was not all a figment of my imagination but a real..... real..... real what???? What is fibromyalgia? How did I get it? How can I fix it? How long will I have it for? Is it for life and will I ever be able to work again? Questions, they are ongoing.... we all have them so never be afraid to ask them.

A Day in My Shoes Spend a day in my shoes Give it a go; you've nothing to lose... Say goodbye to your freedom as you walk through my door A new meaning to pain, Nothing's simple anymore. Lie down to sleep, but sleep never comes. Try counting sheep, try sucking your thumb. Wake in the morning, as stiff as a board Try to get up? More like fall to the floor! Crawl to the bathroom, drag yourself down the stairs With a smile on your face; no-one knows... No-one cares? Struggle through a day so long Get to the evening... Can you go on? Climb into bed exhausted, drained Sleep the only escape from the pain But sleep again eludes you! So lie Staring at the ceiling, too tired to cry. Your brain doesn’t work, fogged over and dumb Yet so many thoughts, turmoil going on A tornado in your head, confusion and sound No single thought or clarity to be found. Spend a day in my shoes, walk a day in my life … Then tell me I don’t look sick.

by Hev Bushnell

Reiki is a natural form of healing therapy. It uses non-invasive gentle touch. This form of therapy aims to increase energy levels and promote relaxation and wellbeing. It is not a treatment for illness or disease.1 Reiki is a Japanese treatment used to reduce stress and help relaxation, which then promotes healing. The Reiki master uses a method of "laying on hands" with the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through us, and this causes us to be alive. If one's life force energy is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. One of my former students, and now a dear friend, is also a Reiki & Karuna Master. She asked me many times if she could give me some Reiki and I always made excuses, as I have never been a believer in the whole chakra, gemstone scene. Anyway I had really reached the end of the “things to try” list and she offered again, so I accepted. She even came to my house and bought a portable bed with her. She lit candles, played calming music, used gongs and chimes, placed gemstones around the bed, chanted quietly to herself, and I shut my eyes, lay back and relaxed. She didn’t touch me at all. She placed her hands above me and next to my head, hips, knees and ankles (she said she could see blockages and strong pain colours in those sites). I felt intense heat, a pulling sensation and strong pulsing during the sessions. She said that she had the same sensations in her hands.

Deb Kirby is a wife, mother, grandmother, former teacher & friend. Following a hip replacement 6 years ago and increasing pain levels, Deb was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 2½ years ago. Until 2 years ago, she was the Senior Lecturer in Women’s Studies for regional South Australia, but now she is on a Disability Pension. Deb has been gradually taking herself off all medication (because none of it works) – it’s a difficult battle but Deb is trying to regain some sort of life and has just enrolled in the Marriage Celebrants’ course.

I was very de-hydrated after and, while still not convinced why, I did feel some relief in the following days. We have had several sessions & I will continue. She has told me that she has sometimes ‘sent’ me some Reiki – I am unsure exactly what this entails or means, and I have to be honest and say that I was unaware of it, nor did I feel any relief. Sessions go for about an hour and she only charges me $35 a session, so it is very reasonable. I am still a bit of a sceptic, but it was a nice sensation, with mild relief (better than none!!) and I felt very cared for by my dear friend. 1.

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Reiki

My name is Brian Joe Curry. I’m 47 and this is my surviving with Fibromyalgia using quality supplements story. This story is based solely on my personal experience with Shakeology & in no way reflects the views of Beachbody LLC. My health was great until 2005. I had psoriasis and a hip replaced. Fast forward to 2011, I was 50lbs overweight, out of shape, and had auto-immune issues (Fibromyalgia and Psoriatic Arthritis) which were out of control, even with medication. Shakeology is a dietary supplement that has helped me improve my health. I did a lot of praying and ran upon Shakeology® by Beachbody. Through hard work and selfdedication, I got out of the bed and regained my health with proper nutrition, nutritional supplements and exercise. No longer was I dependent on visits to the hospital for infusions, others doing the simplest things for me, or tons of prescription pain medications. Shakeology from Beachbody was the catalyst for my transformation. Shakeology is a proprietary blend of digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics that help your body restore a healthy digestive system damaged from years of eating highly processed foods, fast food, and junk food. A well balanced digestive system makes it easier for you to absorb the nutrients needed for optimal health. Your body begins to cleanse itself from the inside out. Soon, I found myself getting questions from others that have seen me suffering and noticed that I was transforming to a more self-dependent person. I had kicked the walking cane to the curb and was now walking unassisted, lost my basketball belly and was smiling again. As I told my story, others said I was an inspiration and needed to help others. Everyone listens to the story, but few react. I believe it is the deep rooted thought of “it is just another supplement that won’t work for me”. I know, I tried lots of junk before finding something that actually helped! Am I in perfect shape now? Far from it, but I am now in control and enjoying my life again. Shakeology's whole-food ingredients deliver the essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals your body needs to help curb its cravings (will not help with the comfort cravings on bad days) Use your will power! Shakeology is packed with over 70 of the world’s most potent nutrients. My body began to transform from the inside. There are fruits and veggies in every delicious glass. Everything in Shakeology has been carefully selected for its unique nutritional quality, including ingredients that herbalists and natural wellness doctors have been using for centuries to holistically heal and fuel the body, promote healthy skin, hair, and nails.* It comes in several flavors as well as a Vegan version.

Normally one glass a day is all I drink. However, when needed, I like to drink it twice. It is like my body craves the extra nutrients at certain times. I also did the Ultimate Resetâ&#x201E;˘ from Beachbody which is a 21 day total cleanse. I went six weeks with perfect health! It taught me a new way to look at food by choosing non-alkaline nutrition to help keep my inflammation at bay. I now have food knowledge and a choice in the way to live my future. Eleven pounds of weight lost without any harmful pills or any exercise! All Beachbody products come with a bottom of bag/bottle promise of satisfaction or your money back. I have NEVER had to send anything back! I am not promising you a cure, but rather a new way of dealing with what life has taken away from you. I still have days of being in bed. On the other hand, I am now in control and can function outside the house.

15 prescription pills a day / 5 prescription pills a day with Shakeology (results will vary; all of our bodies respond differently.) Enjoy life. Give Shakeology and Beachbody a try! Take it from a former couch potato, trying Shakeology was one of the best things I have ever done for myself! Visit Brian Joe Curry at www.brianjoecurry.com *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

by Deb Kirby – see R is for Reiki

Like everyone else with Fibromyalgia, I have pain. It is a moving pain and it is unrelenting. After many years of pain, I have now learned to live with a certain level, to be able to push it to one side for a while and do something normal (or almost anyway). I can usually keep up this pretence of normality for an hour or so, enough time to maybe do something exciting like clean the bathroom, or pull some weeds, or go to the shop. But there is always a cost, and afterwards I pay very dearly for my folly. In fact, every activity comes at a cost, so the longer I ‘do’ something, the longer it takes me to recover. Sometimes recovery means hours of restless sleep and sometimes it means pain.

Unrelenting, throbbing, burning, piercing pain. I’m sure we all know that awful feeling when you cannot relax, or be still, because there is no comfort to be had. This is the time for the TENS Machine. My husband actually found out about them when he was researching information about fibromyalgia a couple of years ago. My daughter, who is a Registered Nurse, said that they are used widely in a hospital setting for patients during labour, and also as part of the palliative care process, for pain relief. Anyway, he bought me a TENS machine and while it doesn’t take the pain away, it certainly takes the edge off.

TENS, which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, are small, portable, battery operated devices used for effective, drug free pain management. Rapid electrical impulses stimulate the body’s release of natural pain killers, or endorphins, which reduces the sense of pain. The machine costs $129, but you can also hire it first to see if it suits you. If you have Extras Health Insurance, you can also claim part of the cost back. My health insurer, refunds 50% of the cost, and you can claim a new one each year. When I got mine, it came with minimal instructions and 4 sticky pads. Fortunately we live in the age of YouTube, and I was able to find plenty of instructional videos to show correct placement of the pads on most parts of the body. I have found that is better to have 2 sets of pads and I wash 1 set each week & let it dry on its plastic sheeting, this keeps the pads sticky and effective, as they stay on the skin better if they are sticky. The TENS uses a 9 volt battery and, because they only last effectively for 3-4 hours, I have also invested in a couple of re-chargeable batteries. It would be tempting to walk around all day with a TENS machine attached to myself, but the problem would be knowing where to put

it. Actually I would be in the market for a full bodysuit TENS if it ever became available. Seriously, though, I save my TENS for the times I really need it. For example, cooking a meal can start off without much problem, but by the time I get to mashing the potato, my lower back and shoulders are screaming with pain. By placing a TENS pad on either side of my spine at the lower & upper back, I can mash the spuds without tears splashing in too! Also at the end of the day, I usually have really severe ankle/foot pain and the TENS pads give me sufficient relief to be able to relax properly, and proper rest actually reduces pain as well. There is plenty of other information on the internet, including a video. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not promoting any particular brand, but I have bought a couple of machines & pad sets from tenspainrelief.com.au, and have found them to be fast and reliable (including prompt replacement of a faulty lead under warranty).

Bridges & Pathways

Bridges & Pathways Institute Foundation is working to improve services for Australians affected by Fibromyalgia Syndrome and associated conditions. Bridges & Pathways and Fibromyalgia Australia are working together to identify current best practice services and programs available across Australia. We welcome your suggestions and input.

Vitamin D is one of the most frequently recommended supplements for chronic pain patients & with good reason because it’s responsible for A LOT of functions in your body! Vitamin D is responsible for immune function, heart health, bone health, etc…that’s only just the beginning; therefore, when people are deficient in this vitamin, they can experience chronic pain, muscle weakness, arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease & so on. Believe it or not, at least one study about fibro & vitamin D deficiency was done which showed that about 25% of us with these conditions are deficient in this vitamin. Odds are good that many more of us aren’t technically deficient, but are in the lower end of the “normal” range. There are SEVERAL studies on both children & adult subjects which have found that low levels of vitamin D in the body lead to UNEXPLAINED bone & muscular PAIN. It then goes on to say, “These findings have been received with excitement by health professionals because if the connection between Fibromyalgia & vitamin D deficiency can be verified, the pain & weakness of patients suffering from Fibromyalgia will be possible to treat with nutritional sources of vitamin D.” This is all very exciting but it does NOT mean that FM is simply a deficiency of vitamin D in the body; it is only one factor in aggravating the symptoms of FM pain. Vitamin D deficiency used to be MUCH less common but thanks to the use of sunblock, it has become one of the most common deficiencies in our society. Don’t worry though; there are a few ways that you can easily obtain more. One way is to go outside & enjoy the sunlight. You shouldn’t be spending a lot of time in the sun daily but exposure to the sun is ESSENTIAL for a healthy level. Vitamin D is converted to its active form when sunlight hits the skin & works to direct calcium to the proper areas in your body. Without that, you can experience both muscle & joint pain. Patients do find help for FM pain just by getting 10-15 minutes of sunshine EACH day. This is a natural treatment for Fibromyalgia! Vitamin D is important for everyone & especially so right now because winter is coming! For those of you who live in the northern climate & experience cold snowy weather, please make sure you are getting adequate sun exposure. If you can’t get that exposure, you may need to supplement yourself with vitamin D to make sure your body is getting the HEALTHY & PROPER amount of the vitamin. As always, make sure to check with your doctor before you start taking anything but two options of rich supplements would be Citracal Plus D & Minerals & Caltrate 600-D Plus Minerals. Another way to up your level of this vitamin is to incorporate vitamin D rich foods into your diet. Foods such as wild salmon, fortified yogurts & cereal, & shrimp are good for this. I know that living with pain from FM isn’t easy but these are a few easy ways to help treat your pain. If you’re on a strict diet & can’t add foods to your daily intake plan or if you can’t stand the thought of buying another pill, then you CAN treat your FM pain naturally. You can go outside & feel the sunshine from your own home – no need to go to a doctor’s office & pay another bill. Dr Steven Yen was named Pain Relief Expert of the Year, by Balance Life Research, in 2010 and 2011. His website EverythingFibromyalgia.com provides Fibro basics and resources, as well as products.

by Melissa Swanson (See A is for Acupuncture)

One of the biggest challenges for Fibromites is the vicious circle of pain, fatigue and depression. Exercise is the best medicine for Fibromites - not only does it help decrease muscle stiffness, maintain mobility and flexibility but, it also helps fight fatigue and depression. However, we are already in so much pain that exercising is often the last thing on our minds. I always remind everyone that exercise is necessary; even if that means walking around the inside of the house, to the mail box, or around the block. I have met many Fibromites that even that is too much for them to handle. In most cases, water is the best therapy. The benefits of just sitting immersed in warm water will help you relax and lower the perception of pain. A warm-water pool, usually kept at 89.6 degrees Fahrenheit, is good for therapy because cold water can make muscles tense up. If you have access to a YMCA or other local pool I encourage you to please go and give it a try. There are several types of programs; individual or group. Individual therapies such as Watsu, hydrotherapy and lap swimming are just a few available. Water makes it possible to conduct aerobic exercises without putting pressure on your joints. The water helps the body to relax, easier to move, and be flexible which cause pain on land. It provides resistance helping you improve your balance and strength. The following are descriptions of a few classes that I have taken at my gym. I find being in a class not only offers physical therapy but mental therapy, as well.   



Water Moves: The perfect combination of gentle, yet effective aerobic exercises, muscle toning, strengthening, stretching, and posture improving exercises. Aqua Blast: A total low impact aerobic workout using both shallow and deep water; abs, light strength work and stretching. AquaZumba®: A workout for all ages that burns 2-4 times the amount of calories compared to land Zumba®. It is geared for everyone including all abilities and all fitness levels. This highly rhythmic form of water aerobics is all about cardio, along with the natural resistance of the water. Water Gym: This highly effective DEEP WATER WORKOUT will teach you how to use the water as a powerful gym, where you'll simulate running, biking, kick-boxing, cross-country skiing and more. A truly non-impact workout that will burn calories, tone & strengthen all of your muscles.

I want to share one of my experiences in the water, an excerpt from my blog, with you: I decided to try a session of Watsu. The instructor explained that I would be using floating devices attached to my ankles to help me from sinking. I would also have another floatation device under my knees and that my neck would either be supported by her or a floatation device. She told me that I would lay back and that everything but my face would be in the water and that for the next

hour, I was just to lay back, close my eyes, relax and just let my body go limp. She would be moving my body and wouldn’t push it too far since it was my first time. I was being told that for an entire hour I was supposed to do nothing, relax and give up all control of my body. Ok – for those who know me personally – you can stop laughing now. I can do those things – really I can. Seriously – stop laughing. What happened for the next hour? I laid back, eyes closed and let the water take over. I can honestly say that for that hour I felt relaxed and, more importantly, I felt no pain. How is that possible? I can’t even flip from one side of my body to the other side in bed without major pain. Even during treatments at my wonderful Chiropractor, I experience pain. When the hour was over, I was placed on the bench in the water. She said that I should keep my eyes closed and take my time to come back. Afterwards, she asked what I thought of it and how it felt. She could tell that I had let my body “go.” She then told me that even though I had been relaxed – she could tell I was in a flare. She could feel my nerves almost fighting back. It has been almost a week since my session. I am out of the flare. I wish I could say the session was the reason. I don’t think I will ever know what exactly started and ended that flare. I just need to keep trying to find out how to keep them further apart. I’m not sure whether I believe entirely in the astrological signs. However, the more I read about earth, water, and organic/natural remedies – I am changing my mind. I no longer think it’s a coincidence that my birth sign is a water sign. One site stated that Cancers health issues generally have a strong emotional component. Water sign people easily pick up negativity from others. They tend to be stiff and dehydrated and have difficulty sleeping. For me, it may be the perfect astrological sign; I belong in water – it’s been me, it’s been a pain savior.

Click HERE to go straight to the SALE page 45

Joshua David is a 34-year-old Boston resident and copywriter who was diagnosed with FMS and CFS at age 26. Joshua enjoys poetry, pottery and dog training. He can be found at Squidoo, his Wordpress website, Facebook, Twitter, and the Men with Fibro Community. With a beautiful wife whom he adores, a dog and cat, Joshua finds his hands, heart and days, full and satisfying. Joshua will now be writing regularly for us, from a man’s point of view.

Many people with FMS/CFS have problems sleeping. I have suffered from insomnia since I was a child, often lying in bed for hours trying to falling asleep, only to finally wake up tired. My wife has the incredible ability to fall asleep within minutes of getting into bed. She is not disturbed easily; instead, she wakes up feeling refreshed and invigorated. I, on the other hand, have never had that experience in my life. I’ve tried many sleep medications; however, for legal reasons I will not mention them by name. You’ve heard of sleepwalking, well, the last sleep medication I used caused an episode of sleepdriving, where I crashed and burned my brand new car. I’m fortunate the medication didn’t cause me to kill myself or someone else. That caused me to swear off sleep medications forever. Enter Xyrem: a new, unique sleep aid. You may have heard that dozens of times about sleep medications but bear with me. Xyrem is a liquid that you measure with a syringe (sans needle) and mix with 60ml of water. You prepare two doses just before bed. You place one dose on your nightstand and take your other dose immediately before getting into bed, and I do mean immediately. You are going to want to brush your teeth because Xyrem doesn’t taste great, but that is all you have time to do. Then get into bed and relax. Xyrem will ease you into deep, restful sleep, one from which you won’t wake up, nor will you be aware of the passage of time. You will experience sleep like you have never known. However, Xyrem does have one flaw; the compound is fast acting, wearing off in 4 hours. For that reason, you have the second dose prepared nearby. Your initial Xyrem package will have a vibrating alarm that you put under your pillow. You set it for 4 hours, and it will vibrate to wake you for your second dose. Then you will sleep for another 4 hours and wake up feeling different than you normally do in the morning. You will feel awake, with no typical sleep medication hangover. Xyrem is a controlled substance; therefore, only one pharmacy in the United States dispenses it. You cannot get it at your local pharmacy; instead, Fedex will deliver it. However, someone 18 or older will have to sign for the package. The Xyrem Success Program will call you a few days before each delivery in order for you to arrange a point of delivery and signature. Xyrem uses Fedex in order to have Saturday deliveries. Only physicians who have been specifically authorized through Xyrem will be able to prescribe the medication. You can learn more about that here: http://www.xyrem.com/find-a-physician

When you begin the medication, you start at a low dose and weekly titrate up until you reach the right dose. Xyrem pharmacists will call you during this titration process. Individual body weight and other factors will determine your final dosage. Taking more than necessary can cause undesirable side effects. However, with pharmacist-guided titration, you safely find your effective, individual dose. Unlike many sleep aids, with Xyrem you will not build a tolerance at your individualized dose. That is why the folks at Xyrem spend time during the first few weeks to perfect an individual dose for you. Although initially establishing your personal dose of Xyrem is not quite as simple as taking other medications, the quality of sleep you enjoy is worth it. Never in my life have I slept as well I do now with Xyrem. I have been on Xyrem for 8 months, and some time ago I stopped needing the vibrating alarm for the second dose. Like clockwork I just wake up in 4 hours and take my second dose. Then in the morning I wake up alert with a clear head. I feel like…well, like I’ve just slept. Of course, Xyrem will not cure Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; nevertheless, freedom from chronic insomnia allows you to function more effectively throughout the day. As I catch up on my sleep debt, I notice less brain fog and I am more useful during the day. How valuable would that be to you? I have not experienced that with any other sleep medication. If my progress were to end there, Xyrem would still be a life-altering drug for me. Xyrem delivers deep, restful, life-changing sleep. Wouldn’t eliminating your insomnia lift a huge weight off your shoulders? I no longer spend my nights passing the time waiting until morning. Curing just this one symptom gives you back a third of your life! Because at the end of the day, isn’t that all we really want…to sleep? Joshua is not affiliated with Xyrem or its maker Jazz Pharmaceuticals.

Fibro Fighter Tumbling through space & time,

I force a smile; you think I'm fine.

Struggling through the toil and strife Trying to live this so-called 'life'. Battling daily with the pain

I wish for the life I had, again.

Pain-free days are dead and gone And yet I try, and soldier on. I am so aware of others who

have lives far worse, who struggle too. I sympathise and feel for them

I know my pain is nothing, then.

I wake each day and count my stars To be alive, to bear my scars.

Battles I've won, wars yet to fight, I will continue, with all my might.

I won't roll over, succumb and lie

dumbed down, I will not give up and die. Nothing can beat me, for I am strong. I will fight, win and go on.

Hev Bushnell

Barb Silvestro is 47-years-old, diagnosed with FM 2 years ago after brain surgery in October 2010. She works full time as a supervisor at Social Security Disability so yes, it took a while before she believed she had FM & that it was real. I sit for my job (which is a blessing) supervise and read medical records and, until my mind goes, I can still work. Barb has 3 biological children & 3 foster/adopted/”stay” (their term not mine) children & a beautiful granddaughter. She has come to the point where she pays her adult children to clean her house & to do the yard work with her husband.

I know that those of us with pain issues hear the word exercise and think yeah, you do it punk! You try to move with the pain I have! But the truth is that yoga is gentle stretching and a few minutes of that a day helps - it truly does. There are free sites on the internet that even have chair yoga, with ten minute segments. That is how I started up with it. You don’t even need a yoga mat, just a towel, your computer and 10-20 minutes. If you’ve got that, you’ve got it made. So what can yoga do for you? It can slow down your breathing so that you, yes you control freak that you are, who is always worrying, planning what has to be done that you probably won’t get to do, or starting to tear up thinking about how you hurt just thinking about getting on the floor to do this – you will breathe...In and out...Nice and slow. Just breathe and connect your breathing with your body. Just feel the breath. Then you will learn which muscles you can stretch and how far until you feel a release (or in some cases popping, which is ok too), and you’ll think, wow! I felt that, that muscle needed that! It is a slow process actually feeling your muscles and seeing how far they can go into a pose/stretch. Seeing which ones you can do, which are too much right now. Knowing that is ok. Listening to your body... what a concept. I see online fibro jokes about “fighting with my body”. Yoga stretches are about listening to your body and going with it, instead of against it. Yoga isn’t about standing on one leg and balancing for people with fibromyalgia, or arthritis, or chronic pain – it is all about stretching the muscles and feeling them and breathing into stretches and letting go. It is an exercise in meditation, relaxation and stretch. Put on some music, or just enjoy silence. For me with 3 kids and usually extras, four dogs, a husband – I have to do this at 5:30am before work. I take a hot shower to warm my muscles enough to move, have a cup of coffee and lay on my mat and breathe and then do my 20-30 minutes (yes, am up to 30 minutes some days again). I know it sounds like work – ok, maybe it is work; but it will feel good. Your doctor will tell you you’re doing something good for your body, and you’ll know it as well, as doing something good for your mind.

Julia is a mother of 2 and former teacher. After very positive results, she is currently an independent distributor of Zija products. After you have researched the range, you can purchase the products and trial packs at http://www.1healthierway.myzija.com/

FROM The National Institute of Health: Moringa oleifera has an impressive range of medicinal uses with high nutritional value. Different parts of this plant contain a profile of important minerals, and are a good source of protein, vitamins, omega oils, beta-carotene, amino acids and various phenolics. The Moringa plant provides a rich and rare combination of zeatin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol. Various parts of this plant such as the leaves, roots, seed, bark, fruit, flowers and immature pods act as cardiac and circulatory stimulants, possess antitumor, antipyretic, antiepileptic, antiinflammatory, antiulcer, antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal activities, and are being employed for the treatment of different ailments in the indigenous system of medicine, particularly in South Asia. This review focuses on the detailed phytochemical composition, medicinal uses, along with pharmacological properties of different parts of this multipurpose tree. Moringa can mitigate over 300 diseases. Zija is THE Moringa company I developed debilitating pain and stiffness 5 years ago which was diagnosed as Fibromyalgia, CFS, MFPS, etc. I am grateful to have been introduced to Zija. After extensive research, I felt this was an incredible product so I signed up and it is not disappointing. After only a few weeks, my energy is increasing, people say I am looking better, I last longer and I do not get major flare ups nor do I require several days to recover from doing too much. I can't wait for more results, to a time of no more prescriptions and mostly to be able to do all or most of what I used to do with my family.

My friend Debbie has had Fibromyalgia and IBS for 21 years and is now pain and med free in just 2Â˝ months on Zija's Smartmix. Her friend Allyson has arthritis and, after a few months of drinking Zija Smartmix, was able to return to her job as a massage therapist.

Zija provides OVER 90 Nutrients in ONE Small Drink from One Plant!

Typical vitamins are only 10% absorbable but those made from plants (phytonutrients) are close to 100% absorbable. Hence, Moringa's growing popularity. It iss simply loaded with phytonutrients. Zija is pure nutrition from the Moringa plant. Lives are being changed every day! Many of us suffered from pain or illness and it is gone. You start seeing results in 2 to 4 days for most issues. Many of us are losing weight, beating cancer, beating diabetes, inflammation, pain, lupus, high blood pressure and the list goes on. You want to know why you have tried everything else and nothing works? Because, Zija Moringa is enzymatically alive so it is easily absorbed into your body – as are the 90+ nutrients including 46 antioxidants, 36 anti-inflammatories and all the essential amino acids. Zija's Moringa is an adaptogen which means it can normalize your physiological values, by giving the body what it needs for the body can repair itself and function optimally. If you interested in more information, please check the following links:   

Russ Bianchi Discusses Moringa Oleifera & The Zija Opportunity www.russbianchi.com http://www.1healthierway.myzija.com/

Hopefully, Z is NOT the end of the story. I look forward to hearing about better treatments, more understanding doctors and, maybe even, a cure.