Susan's Place Transgender Resources

I have contemplated doing this ever since I returned to forum staff. If nothing else as a way to share my life with others. Right now have been enjoying the visit of my in-laws. I adore both of them, but have really noticed a change in my father-in-law after everything he has been through over the last year.

Between knew replacement, heart valve replacement and even an infection that resulted in his being in the hospital a long time, It has know doubt been a strain on him. Do to my health I often have to pace myself, but this is the first time where he has done the same and really has firm boundaries which I totally believe is a good thing. This visit with them is different than any other we have had with them so far.

We had a wonderful visit to the Desert Botanical Garden yesterday. It really was the most relaxed all of us have been during the visit. Anyways I still enjoyed the visit so far. It's cold out at night for here right now, but still is nice and comfortable around middle of the day. We have been getting down close to freezing in the mornings at night. So much so I had to tern the temperature up on the thermostat last night. anyways. Hugs
Mariah

Mariah,

You have always been a positive influence here.  I look forward to reading your blog over time.
I am glad you are having a good time with your visiting in-laws.

I went to a desert botanical garden in Arizona.  It was interesting.


Chrissy

@Mariah
Dear Mariah:
I am thrilled that you have started your new Blog Thread here on the Forum.

Your readers and followers will now have a place that that they easily can find you...
which will allow others to leave their reply comments and thoughts for you.

Your Blog Thread is the place that you can call HOME here on
the Forum and where can continue to tell your "story."

I wish you well as you are dealing with your FIL's health issues and those of
your partner and of your own.

THANK YOU for sharing with all of us over the many years that you
have been a valuable Staff member here on the Forum and a registered
member since 2014          ---> 11 years!
      Presently you are a Forum Global Moderator, a Discord Chat Moderator,
      and are a Retired NEWS Administrator.  Thank you for your willingness
      to contribute your time to Susan's Place... and you have helped make this
      a better place..... you are very much appreciated.

Many HUGS, and more to come your way... ❤️❤️❤️
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator
                        cc: @Devlyn  @Jessica_Rose  @Lori Dee  @Sarah B

I agree with Chrissy,

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on January 12, 2025, 01:56:39 PMYou have always been a positive influence here. 

Your knowledge, experience, and mentorship have helped me tremendously. Thank you for all you do here.

Good luck with your health and that of your family too.

Quote from: Mariah on January 12, 2025, 01:08:57 PMI have contemplated doing this ever since I returned to forum staff. If nothing else as a way to share my life with others.

Thank you for sharing your story. It's always refreshing to read a new blog and gain insight into someone else's perspective.

QuoteRight now have been enjoying the visit of my in-laws. I adore both of them, but have really noticed a change in my father-in-law after everything he has been through over the last year.

Between knew replacement, heart valve replacement and even an infection that resulted in his being in the hospital a long time, It has know doubt been a strain on him. Do to my health I often have to pace myself, but this is the first time where he has done the same and really has firm boundaries which I totally believe is a good thing. This visit with them is different than any other we have had with them so far.

Sorry to hear about your in-laws. It sounds like your father-in-law is going through a lot. Sending you virtual hugs.

Welcome to the put anything down spot that clears your head!!

We visited the botanical garden this time with my in-laws and then went to the restaurant Gertrudes for a late lunch. Less flowers blooming this time. I can't help, but think that is a result of how dry it is here right now. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on January 12, 2025, 01:56:39 PMMariah,

You have always been a positive influence here.  I look forward to reading your blog over time.
I am glad you are having a good time with your visiting in-laws.

I went to a desert botanical garden in Arizona.  It was interesting.


Chrissy

Danielle,
You are welcome. In many ways this just allows me to my thoughts, feelings and experiences down these days. A way to share my life more widely with others. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on January 12, 2025, 02:03:13 PM@Mariah
Dear Mariah:
I am thrilled that you have started your new Blog Thread here on the Forum.

Your readers and followers will now have a place that that they easily can find you...
which will allow others to leave their reply comments and thoughts for you.

Your Blog Thread is the place that you can call HOME here on
the Forum and where can continue to tell your "story."

I wish you well as you are dealing with your FIL's health issues and those of
your partner and of your own.

THANK YOU for sharing with all of us over the many years that you
have been a valuable Staff member here on the Forum and a registered
member since 2014          ---> 11 years!
      Presently you are a Forum Global Moderator, a Discord Chat Moderator,
      and are a Retired NEWS Administrator.  Thank you for your willingness
      to contribute your time to Susan's Place... and you have helped make this
      a better place..... you are very much appreciated.

Many HUGS, and more to come your way... ❤️❤️❤️
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator
                        cc: @Devlyn  @Jessica_Rose  @Lori Dee  @Sarah B

Lori,

I am glad I was able to help. My life really has been about helping others. I often over the years have put myself second to helping others of which I was chewed out for doing after landing in the hospital in 2012. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on January 12, 2025, 02:20:29 PMI agree with Chrissy,

Your knowledge, experience, and mentorship have helped me tremendously. Thank you for all you do here.

Good luck with your health and that of your family too.

My father-in-law is still going through a lot. You get to a point in life where you have two choices. To do or not do something. It seems like he is at that point which I will share more about shortly. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lilis on January 12, 2025, 02:51:09 PMThank you for sharing your story. It's always refreshing to read a new blog and gain insight into someone else's perspective.
Sorry to hear about your in-laws. It sounds like your father-in-law is going through a lot. Sending you virtual hugs.

Yeah it is good for the mental and physical well being to do so. Over the years I have tended to be very stoic which probably wasn't good for my health. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: davina61 on January 13, 2025, 03:27:44 AMWelcome to the put anything down spot that clears your head!!

During my in-laws visit we had the chance to play games, watch the Packers lose a football game, visit the Desert Botanical Garden and have some good food together. This visit both good for us, but also stressful.

The one thing that I really had to was play mediator between my spouse and her parents or most specifically her father. Her father even used her dead name this time which generally never happens. Pronouns he has always messed up on for my spouse, but overall still respectful regardless. I firmly believe this visit wasn't the place to take a stand about those things and it wasn't. My father-in-law has a lot on his plate.


Before, I had mentioned his health and everything he has a been through which has resulted in some changes to my father-in-law. Facial hair, which I have never seen on him before and actually looks good on him. He also, like myself, had to pace himself. He clearly doesn't have the energy and needs more downtime than in the past. I suppose how busy they used to make things is where my spouse got into doing the same. The pacing of things is important even when I'm not willing to admit it.

The first day my mother-in-law took me to my infusion at a location that I hadn't been to before. Needless to say I'm used to the location I go to in Scottsdale which is much nicer, but no slots were open that day which was why I scheduled it for a different location. This was done to free up Saturday. This allowed us the chance to visit the Desert Botanical Garden which really was the highlight of their visit.

I have always enjoyed the botanical garden, but much less was blooming that many trips we have made to the garden although not surprising. After all, it is a Desert Botanical Garden. Sunday we went to our church with my mother-in-law and then that afternoon went over to a cousins house to watch the Packers game. Close game for a long while, but they lost which we were all not surprised by considering they were facing the Eagles. We also played clue with them Monday night. I won the game, but just barely since my spouse was going to get it right on her next turn right after me. I had hid the Lounge from her just long enough to allow me to win. Monday night we played some 20 questions after dinner. Then they left Tuesday, but of course our work week started on Monday.

I always dread Mondays because every Monday has OT. I would prefer to not have to do OT, but I also know that it is part of what is expected of us. Wednesday being a 9 and half hour work day plus our half our lunch. The couple of days I was thankful for largely a break from the inbound calls to work the outbound delinquent mortgage accounts. By now most know how this works and either they pick up or do everything in there power to avoid taking the call.

It's true though accounts hurt my metrics, but just the breathing room sometimes from the other calls is nice. It really gives you a chance to decompress from those inbound calls. It's only 46 here after 9:30an in the morning which is cold for here.

Today is more relaxed day, but we still have to go to my mammogram and shop for groceries. Not sure I will get to working on the budget today because tonight we are playing Mariokart with some friends in Virginia, but before all that I have to dilate this morning. It is not something I do very often these days at all. We regularly do these games online now that we both have the game. Anyway time to get started for the day. It's been a stressful week, but glad to be able to have a slower pace this 3 day weekend. Hugs
Mariah

Welcome to Blogville Mariah and... many thanks to you for all your wonderful efforts over the years to keep this place humming along!!!

Hugs!

Ashley 💕

Found out today that a friend that I have known for several years, who used to be staff on here a good long while ago is in the area. I been waiting for her to return to the area so we had a chance to spend time with her. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on January 18, 2025, 05:39:04 PMFound out today that a friend that I have known for several years, who used to be staff on here a good long while ago is in the area. I been waiting for her to return to the area so we had a chance to spend time with her. Hugs
Mariah

That is great!

Chrissy

So we had a good visit with her.It has made for an interesting begining to the year. I finally got all my tax forms. I plan on giving my taxes another look over before I submit them. I have been spending time this month getting through my taxes and now working on the budget. I had really put time in the budget last year after the company change. So many unknowns coming in that it just wasn't prudent.

However, It is time for me to put that effort in now and smooth things out. One of the reasons why is we have started to plan a trip. This trip will result in my spouse and I meeting several people who over the years have been on Susans. Jamie and I are looking forward to this trip that should happen in May. Hugs

Mariah

That sounds like fun! Not the taxes, the trip.  ;D

The trip will be. Taxes can be so much fun though.

Quote from: Lori Dee on February 05, 2025, 08:42:21 PMThat sounds like fun! Not the taxes, the trip.  ;D

Quote from: Mariah on February 06, 2025, 06:58:08 AMThe trip will be. Taxes can be so much fun though.

I worked for a friend at his accounting firm, doing tax returns for a few years. After pulling my hair out over a complex tax problem, he would ask me, "Are we having fun yet?"

I would ask him the same thing when I would see him in a similar situation. He would say that it is always fun "sticking it to the government".  ;D

I know it has been a long time, but I just feel like now is as any good time to start posting in my blog again. It's been a rough year this year from my kidney function getting down to 17 eGFR to having an infection that my body hasn't been able to fight off which played a huge role in my ending up in the hospital twice between March 31st and now.

Now I'm still on IV antibiotics due to it being very antibiotic resistant. I'm just thankful that the line they put in allows me to have the IV antibiotics at home now. I'm still getting used it, but my spouse has been a huge help. I'm hoping that I am now able to work without this getting in the way of my working anymore. Hugs

Mariah

I hope you do continually improve until everything is better than normal.

It is good that you are posting again.  Please keep coming back.


Chrissy

Quote from: Mariah on May 10, 2026, 06:10:36 PMI know it has been a long time, but I just feel like now is as any good time to start posting in my blog again. It's been a rough year this year from my kidney function getting down to 17 eGFR to having an infection that my body hasn't been able to fight off which played a huge role in my ending up in the hospital twice between March 31st and now.

Now I'm still on IV antibiotics due to it being very antibiotic resistant. I'm just thankful that the line they put in allows me to have the IV antibiotics at home now. I'm still getting used it, but my spouse has been a huge help. I'm hoping that I am now able to work without this getting in the way of my working anymore. Hugs

Mariah

I am glad to see you back, Mariah. You were always there for me. I am so, so sorry you are going through a rough spell. I am sending you what healing energy I can, sweetie.

Hang in there, honey. <3

Chrissy, Thank you. I hope I do too. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on May 10, 2026, 06:24:36 PMI hope you do continually improve until everything is better than normal.

It is good that you are posting again.  Please keep coming back.


Chrissy

Lauren, It's greatly appreciated. I always try to be here for everyone, but lately the hard part has been just trying to take credit for of myself. Always know regardless, I'm always here for you and everyone else. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Sephirah on May 10, 2026, 06:30:42 PMI am glad to see you back, Mariah. You were always there for me. I am so, so sorry you are going through a rough spell. I am sending you what healing energy I can, sweetie.

Hang in there, honey. <3

Glad to have you back on the forums again. Even through the rough stuff, you still managed to pop in now and then. We appreciate that. I bet it sure feels better to be home.

Take good care of yourself.

My spouse is making sure of that. She helps with getting me hooked up to the IV and the hoops required tp get to work. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on May 10, 2026, 08:20:53 PMGlad to have you back on the forums again. Even through the rough stuff, you still managed to pop in now and then. We appreciate that. I bet it sure feels better to be home.

Take good care of yourself.

I hope you get over it soon, sending hugs XX

Wishing you a speedy recovery, Mariah! 

Davina and Dances with trees, Thank You. I was hoping to return to work today, but my body is still in full recovery mode plus the IV antibiotics It's going to be one of those weeks where I have to listen to my body. More rest on the menu for the day. Hugs
Mariah

The nurse came out today to change out the dressing and draw blood. I was hoping the line that is in would let her draw the blood in that way, but it wasn't working so she had to draw blood the regular way. If all goes well, then the line can come out next Tuesday. Hugs
Mariah

That is great news!

Hoping the labs show the kidneys functioning and the infection is gone.

Mariah,



I wish you the best of results.


Chrissy

The function improved a little, but that was without the stress of work in the mix. I expect it to go down again once work is back in full time. I had started the prep for my normal infusions, but had to stop due to the fact the infection is starting to build back in again. It's looking like the infectious disease referral is finally going to the right office that can handle this infection. Now we just need their fax machine to work so they can receive the referral Now waiting on the most recent culture results which will be referred to infectious disease doctor. Hugs
Mariah

So sorry this is still ongoing.

Thoughts and prayers are with you.

Big Hugs!

Kidney function has dipped again and it is clear that an infection is very active again. I'm doing what I can to control it tell Infectious disease decides on what to do next. I had my first appointment on Wednesday and we are waiting on the culture to return so we know what is next. I'm just pushing through and hoping for the best at this point. Hugs
Mariah

Mariah,


I hope the infection goes away.


Chrissy

Wishing you all the best.

Love and hugs!

    @Mariah
Dear Mariah:
You are continually in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏
Get well soon....
            (https://i.imgur.com/dhPiguZl.jpg)       
Follow your doctor's orders and get lots of sleep and rest,
that is when your body can heal.
Lots of warm HUGS,
      🩷
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
  Forum Admin  Direct Email: alaskandanielle@yahoo.com

Quote from: Mariah on May 31, 2026, 08:26:47 PMKidney function has dipped again and it is clear that an infection is very active again. I'm doing what I can to control it tell Infectious disease decides on what to do next. I had my first appointment on Wednesday and we are waiting on the culture to return so we know what is next. I'm just pushing through and hoping for the best at this point. Hugs
Mariah

Sending the best healing thoughts and prayers sister!!! 💕🙏💕👋👩🌻💕

Get well soon, Mariah! Sending love

Hugs my dear, hope they find what it is and can treat it.

Thank you all. This Thursday and a week from Wednesday should bring in to clarity what the medical team plans on doing. I suppose waiting has never been an easy thing for me. Hugs
Mariah

Progress is being made despite the infection returning again. Slightly different bacteria this time, which allowed them to hope oral antibiotics would work. They haven't so I to the hospital Friday to have a new line put in and then will be transitioned to IV antibiotics at home. It's progress of a sort At least I don't spend a lot of time in the hospital this go around. Time will tell. Hugs
Mariah.

I hope this all works out.  Did you find out anything today?


Chrissy

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 11, 2026, 04:45:14 PMI hope this all works out.  Did you find out anything today?


Chrissy

Me too. I preregistered for the procedure with the hospital and yesterday we got the procedure scheduled. Friday morning I get the line put in, which is less than 12 hours away. Hugs
Mariah

The line is in and I attempted to work the shift I was scheduled for, but I was too sore to complete it. Hugs
Mariah

Thanks for keeping us updated.

Thoughts and prayers as always.

Hugs!

They bandaged it yesterday. So far so good. I have been able to get a few hours at work today. It's hot as all outside. We seem to be in that time of year where 100 plus is the norm now. Hugs
Mariah

Stay hydrated. We will hit 104 tomorrow, and poor Jessica's AC is on the fritz.

Hope you heal up well and can get back to your normal again.

Big hugs!

Quote from: Lori Dee on June 16, 2026, 04:07:22 PMStay hydrated. We will hit 104 tomorrow, and poor Jessica's AC is on the fritz.

Hope you heal up well and can get back to your normal again.

Big hugs!

104? that's 40C. Poor Jessica, we had a very hot summer a few years back that hit 40C even up here in Newcastle. There is no AC anywhere pretty much. It's very tough, the only salvation is the supermarket chiller cabinets in the UK they are all open shelves so when you walk down the aisles you get an icy blast!

I hope the IV antibiotics does the trick for you Mariah, it is an incredibly long time you have been fighting this thing. It must be wearing for you.

Very much so. It's 108 here already today. I hope her AC gets fixed.

Quote from: Stottie Girl on June 16, 2026, 04:29:15 PM104? that's 40C. Poor Jessica, we had a very hot summer a few years back that hit 40C even up here in Newcastle. There is no AC anywhere pretty much. It's very tough, the only salvation is the supermarket chiller cabinets in the UK they are all open shelves so when you walk down the aisles you get an icy blast!

I hope the IV antibiotics does the trick for you Mariah, it is an incredibly long time you have been fighting this thing. It must be wearing for you.

That is really hot (108 F) to have to be out in.

24C yesterday and I was wilting.

I hope all of the medical issues get resolved well right away.

Chrissy

I bet.

Quote from: davina61 on June 17, 2026, 03:57:18 AM24C yesterday and I was wilting.

very much so. In time, we will get over 110 F. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 16, 2026, 10:24:23 PMThat is really hot (108 F) to have to be out in.

Me too. It's been a long fight at this point. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 17, 2026, 07:49:26 AMI hope all of the medical issues get resolved well right away.

Chrissy

I'm trying to get a medical appointment moved to today so I can maintain my holiday pay for Friday. Easier said than done, but I have to try. Another warm day ahead I'm proud of my spouse who has passed the 90 day point at her job. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on June 17, 2026, 08:30:00 AMI'm trying to get a medical appointment moved to today so I can maintain my holiday pay for Friday. Easier said than done, but I have to try. Another warm day ahead I'm proud of my spouse who has passed the 90 day point at her job. Hugs
Mariah

@Mariah
Dear Mariah:
I hope and trust that you can get your medical appointment changed. 
   Also, that is good news regarding Jamie's job.
Stay as cool as possible in your hot Arizona weather this time of year.
I would melt in those kinds of temperatures.
HUGS, Danielle

It's hard not to melt in these temps. It really is a trade off. I deal with summers and in return I don't have to deal with snow. I kinda took my share of snow the couple months I lived up north. It was to much and more than my body could handle. Thankfully I got the appointment moved to today and I also get the pleasure of my blood being drawn too. The blood draw will be done by the home health company that comes out to help take are of the IV line. Yes, it is very good news. Jamie had been fretting over it for a bit. I was confident this would be the result and I'm happy it was for Jamie. We will at least get an idea of how my kidneys are doing from the blood draw.

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on June 17, 2026, 09:41:01 AM@Mariah
Dear Mariah:
I hope and trust that you can get your medical appointment changed. 
   Also, that is good news regarding Jamie's job.
Stay as cool as possible in your hot Arizona weather this time of year.
I would melt in those kinds of temperatures.
HUGS, Danielle

That is good news!

Those temps remind me of Phoenix, AZ.

Low humidity though.

Well that is because those are the temps from Phoenix metro.  Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 17, 2026, 04:14:26 PMThose temps remind me of Phoenix, AZ.

Low humidity though.

Three day weekend with one day off in common with Jamie. We are thinking of going to the zoo in the near future although my walking it is out. We found out we may have to switch antibiotics. Primary care doctor found out that the current med the infection is resistant against it. It explains a few things. Beautiful weather, but hot out. Hugs
Mariah

Enjoy this extended weekend. 

I saw a gunfight show in Tombstone.  That was fun. 

Try to relax. 

Hugs,

Chrissy

That would be fun to watch. We are going to a movie today. Hugs

Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 19, 2026, 06:23:27 AMEnjoy this extended weekend. 

I saw a gunfight show in Tombstone.  That was fun. 

Try to relax. 

Hugs,

Chrissy

Goldfield, a bit NE of Phoenix, was fun to visit too.

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on June 19, 2026, 09:12:50 PMGoldfield, a bit NE of Phoenix, was fun to visit too.

For many years, my ex and I sold Gold Canyon Candles (later headquartered in Chandler). We were friends of the founders, Curt and Karen Waisath. Such wonderful people. We would drive down to Phoenix each year for their annual convention. We learned a lot about the candle business, met some wonderful people, and had dinner several nights at Alice Cooper's restaurant. Now the candle company has been sold off to some corporation, and we discontinued selling their products.

I have always loved Gold Canyon candles. A Neighbor I had in the Spokane area used to sell them.  Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on June 19, 2026, 11:59:56 PMFor many years, my ex and I sold Gold Canyon Candles (later headquartered in Chandler). We were friends of the founders, Curt and Karen Waisath. Such wonderful people. We would drive down to Phoenix each year for their annual convention. We learned a lot about the candle business, met some wonderful people, and had dinner several nights at Alice Cooper's restaurant. Now the candle company has been sold off to some corporation, and we discontinued selling their products.

Wednesday we found out that the infection is resistant against the current antibiotic so Monday I am going to deal with the doctors office so they can pick another. Then yesterday we had to take the car in for a repair. Luckily, the repair went as planned and we have the car back so Jamie can head into work. Today we are having to tackle the cold knob for the kitchen sink. A simple issue to fix. I hope everyone else is doing well. Hugs
Mariah

    @Mariah
Dear Mariah, the way that I see it, the COLD knob on on your kitchen sink is the
very least of your concerns...  on the very top of your list is obviously your
health and doctors visit, then the car repair, and very importantly the ability of your
partner to travel to and from work.

Now, with all of that said, please keep your updates coming regarding your health.
      ❤️
HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

Quote from: Mariah on June 20, 2026, 11:02:01 AMWednesday we found out that the infection is resistant against the current antibiotic so Monday I am going to deal with the doctors office so they can pick another. Then yesterday we had to take the car in for a repair. Luckily, the repair went as planned and we have the car back so Jamie can head into work. Today we are having to tackle the cold knob for the kitchen sink. A simple issue to fix. I hope everyone else is doing well. Hugs
Mariah

To quote Roseanne Rosannadanna:

"It just goes to show ya, it's always somethin. If it's not one thing, it's another."

Big hugs!

Everything went as planned with the car and the faucet will need to wait since the sound stopped. Jamie and I will need to shop around for a new faucet and find one we like so it can be installed. Monday I will call the infectious disease doctor office so we can get the antibiotics switched to one that it isn't resistant to. I'm going to church this morning, but otherwise just relaxing today. Hugs
Mariah

Back in the hospital for a third stay. I'm not surprised by it. The infectious disease doctor mentioned it Monday and I was like let's deal with this at home and not in a hospital. The fact the infection returned and that now my liver enzymes are high resulted in the trip to the hospital. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on July 11, 2026, 09:58:03 AMBack in the hospital for a third stay. I'm not surprised by it. The infectious disease doctor mentioned it Monday and I was like let's deal with this at home and not in a hospital. The fact the infection returned and that now my liver enzymes are high resulted in the trip to the hospital. Hugs
Mariah

Oh my Mariah.  I wish you a speedy recovery from this infection. 

Chrissy

Chrissy,
Thank You. I hope I recover quickly too.
Hugs
Mariah

I'm out of the hospital and home again. This year is going by quick. I find myself in many ways at a fork in the road considering my health and what I need to do about work.I have no doubt another trip to the hospital is in my future and that makes me have to ponder what is next yet I can't really make my move tell my spouse is back to work and has insurance. Oh well, such is life.

We had a loud thunderstorm in which some of the lighting sounded so close last night. It really shows that the monsoon season is here along with the dust storms that precede many of them. It's all part of what is so unique with living in a desert. Hugs
Mariah

Glad you are back home. Just take it one day at a time.

We get the dust storms here too. With everything so dry, the wind picks up ahead of a storm, blowing dust everywhere. Last year, the dust was so bad, it caused a major multi-car pileup on the interstate. The worst mass casualty event here in history.

Good thing that Global Warming is just a myth! 🤣

Take care of yourself. You are loved.

Big Hugs.

Mariah,


I am glad you are back home now.


Hugs,


Chrissy

@Mariah
Dear Mariah,
Usually people in their homes will better heal instead of being in the hospital.
  WELCOME HOME 🏠

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
  Forum Admin

Oh wow. Trees were the biggest casualty here this time. The storm even startled our dog. Dust storms can do that. We had a really bad dust storm last year and we were out driving in it after work. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on July 14, 2026, 12:27:43 PMGlad you are back home. Just take it one day at a time.

We get the dust storms here too. With everything so dry, the wind picks up ahead of a storm, blowing dust everywhere. Last year, the dust was so bad, it caused a major multi-car pileup on the interstate. The worst mass casualty event here in history.

Good thing that Global Warming is just a myth! 🤣

Take care of yourself. You are loved.

Big Hugs.

Me too. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on July 14, 2026, 01:25:29 PMMariah,


I am glad you are back home now.


Hugs,


Chrissy

Quote from: Northern Star Girl on July 14, 2026, 05:00:50 PM@Mariah
Dear Mariah,
Usually people in their homes will better heal instead of being in the hospital.
  WELCOME HOME 🏠

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
  Forum Admin

True hugs
Mariah

I had a couple of doctors appointments today. The focus now is to try to find a strategy to prevent the infections and the related inflammation. In the meantime, I am still not cleared to work. Time will tell how all this will play out. It seems today is the lull between storms here. So much debris and damage around still from the last one.

We ended up having to change out security badges for the museum because we have had the current ones so long. It will ge nice to get more volunteering in Saturday as we work prepping a fossil life in the museum while answering questions from people. The prepping of fossils is really relaxing.
Hugs
Mariah

Have you seen the movie Dinosaur 13?

It's a documentary about the largest and most complete T. rex, which was found in the South Dakota Badlands. I did a lot of rockhounding in that area, but never found any fossils.

How are you feeling today Mariah?


Chrissy

How are you doing Mariah?


Chrissy

We own it, but haven't watched it. We know the story behind it though. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on July 15, 2026, 09:16:44 PMHave you seen the movie Dinosaur 13?

It's a documentary about the largest and most complete T. rex, which was found in the South Dakota Badlands. I did a lot of rockhounding in that area, but never found any fossils.

Chrissy thank you for checking. I ended up in the hospital an additional time totalling 4 inpatient stays and one outpatient procedure. If you count all the days together including the out patient procedure it adds up to 22 days or about 6 percent of 365 day year. I truly expect to end up back in the hospital. Antibiotic resistant UTI"s keep occurring and thanks to the picc line I ended up with a DVT. The DVT is causing discomfort which has resulted in blood thinners. The antibiotics in the hospital has resulted in another infection. My having Chronic kidney disease stage 4 has resulted in a very strict.fluid restriction which makes it hard for my body to fight infections off. The liver enzymes were climbing again while I was in the hospital and at one point my kidney function was down to 20 eGFR in the hospital. They finally out right also mentioned the fatty liver too. It has been a lot to deal with.

The question becomes what happens from here. I can't work with me going in the hospital so frequently and the only reason an impatient stay was avoided in June was the picc line. Tomorrow will be the start of what will happen going forward. We extend my leave to the full 6 month point and start going after what is needed for long term disability which will require me to at that point seek Social Security. It's all happening sooner than I expected, but the handwriting has been on the wall. Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. A lot is on my mind these days. Hugs
Mariah
 

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on August 15, 2026, 12:13:44 PMHow are you doing Mariah?


Chrissy

I really don't know what to say Mariah.

No words from me will change anything.

I feel so sad for you.

I hope you catch a break soon

Thank you, Petunia. Me too. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Petunia on August 21, 2026, 12:08:58 AMI really don't know what to say Mariah.

No words from me will change anything.

I feel so sad for you.

I hope you catch a break soon

Quote from: Mariah on August 20, 2026, 09:56:07 PMChrissy thank you for checking. I ended up in the hospital an additional time totalling 4 inpatient stays and one outpatient procedure. If you count all the days together including the out patient procedure it adds up to 22 days or about 6 percent of 365 day year. I truly expect to end up back in the hospital. Antibiotic resistant UTI"s keep occurring and thanks to the picc line I ended up with a DVT. The DVT is causing discomfort which has resulted in blood thinners. The antibiotics in the hospital has resulted in another infection. My having Chronic kidney disease stage 4 has resulted in a very strict.fluid restriction which makes it hard for my body to fight infections off. The liver enzymes were climbing again while I was in the hospital and at one point my kidney function was down to 20 eGFR in the hospital. They finally out right also mentioned the fatty liver too. It has been a lot to deal with.

The question becomes what happens from here. I can't work with me going in the hospital so frequently and the only reason an impatient stay was avoided in June was the picc line. Tomorrow will be the start of what will happen going forward. We extend my leave to the full 6 month point and start going after what is needed for long term disability which will require me to at that point seek Social Security. It's all happening sooner than I expected, but the handwriting has been on the wall. Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. A lot is on my mind these days. Hugs
Mariah
 

I'm sorry to hear that Maria, That's a lot to deal with. Hopefully the doctors will manage to get on top of it but it sounds like you have a security net in social security at least? Wishing you all the best.

Thank you. Social security is something I have to apply for. It will take awhile to jump through every hoop with work and social security. We haven't been able to stop the infections from occurring and likely will never be able to stop them.

Quote from: Stottie Girl on August 21, 2026, 01:17:53 AMI'm sorry to hear that Maria, That's a lot to deal with. Hopefully the doctors will manage to get on top of it but it sounds like you have a security net in social security at least? Wishing you all the best.

It was nice to have a friend visit us today. We played a couple of different games including cards against humanity where we have filled the biggest blackest box and are even now filling a smaller box on top of that now. Besides medical appointments virtually stuck at home since one infection is contagious, but then my mobility doesn't help either. I'm also getting to enjoy our dog and cat. I should share photos of them sometime. Doctor appointment on Friday started get paperwork in order for the next steps. It's been a blessing to have my spouse around all of the time before she starts her new job. Hugs
Mariah

We now in a waiting game tell the culture is back before moving forward. I have doctors appointments next week, which will keep me busy. Just enjoying Star Trek TNG now that we are back from my infectious disease doctor appointment. It's really like mash potatoes for my spouse and I. Then again so are dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. Hugs
Mariah

I hope you get some definitive news. It's difficult to treat something when you don't know exactly what you're dealing with. Good luck.

Love always -- Jess

Still keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Hopefully, good news soon.

Hugs!

true, which is why we are waiting this time for the culture and which antibiotics it is receptive to sorted out. Sadly, it is just a waiting game until then. Thank you though. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Jessica_Rose on August 25, 2026, 08:36:44 PMI hope you get some definitive news. It's difficult to treat something when you don't know exactly what you're dealing with. Good luck.

Love always -- Jess

It is much appreciated. Thank You. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on August 25, 2026, 08:39:38 PMStill keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Hopefully, good news soon.

Hugs!

Last night I ended up having to come back to the hospital tanks complications. We are waiting for a room to be ready to get moved. Hugs
Mariah

Get well soon!

I don't know what to say Mariah.

I know there are a lot of people sending you hugs and crossing our fingers

Quote from: Finally Anna on August 28, 2026, 07:36:03 AMGet well soon!

thank you Anna.

Quote from: Petunia on August 28, 2026, 07:49:13 AMI don't know what to say Mariah.

I know there are a lot of people sending you hugs and crossing our fingers

It's much appreciated. Hugs
Mariah

You need forty quarters of paid employment for Social Security disability.  Without that you can't get it.

Marion

Quote from: Maid Marion on August 28, 2026, 09:05:32 AMYou need forty quarters of paid employment for Social Security disability.  Without that you can't get it.

Marion

Those quarters are long since met. Hugs
Mariah

So I get to stay in the hospital tell at least Sunday or Monday. I'm hoping it doesn't go past that, but the end who knows tell they let me know. I'm making slow progress, but definitely heading in the right direction again. I want to make sure that it is known I have been aware of the 40 quarters a long while and long ago past it. My health has sadly made it necessary for me to have to medically retire sooner than I expected, but it has been a rough year and being in the hospital this much gets easily frustrating. I knew sooner than later that I would be sent down this route. At least part of the weighting period of 5 months has already begun. Hugs
Mariah

If you cannot do ANY paying work (not just in the area you are trained to work) then you should be able to get SSD with some effort.

I often shook my head when I heard that many people who had a terrible accident and were in great pain but could do SOME kind of work, SSD denied them, but a convicted drug addict could get SSD easy because it is hard to find work as a known drug addict with a criminal conviction. Seemed unfair to me.

Totally agree. The fact the hospital is happening frequently and is expected to continue happening with frequency makes it so no employer can employ me and makes this an open and shut case. This will allow for me to truly focus on my health which is the best way for to survive and be there for my wonderful loving spouse. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on August 29, 2026, 06:26:33 PMIf you cannot do ANY paying work (not just in the area you are trained to work) then you should be able to get SSD with some effort.

I often shook my head when I heard that many people who had a terrible accident and were in great pain but could do SOME kind of work, SSD denied them, but a convicted drug addict could get SSD easy because it is hard to find work as a known drug addict with a criminal conviction. Seemed unfair to me.

The hope is I get to leave the hospital today and then I have 4 medical appointments this week otherwise I have to reschedule the nephrologist appointment which I'm trying to avoid rescheduling. Hugs
Mariah

I get to go home today, but recovery will take a lot longer

Quote from: Mariah on August 31, 2026, 02:36:01 PMI get to go home today, but recovery will take a lot longer

It is tough to get through some medical issues.  It helps if you have someone that can help you.
I hope you have many good days ahead of you.

Hugs,


Chrissy

I feel for you, but at least you are busting out of hospital.

Fingers crossed that you can get some answers and a way to start regaining your health

Great news that you can go home!

I hope things keep moving in the right direction for you.

Hugs!

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on August 31, 2026, 04:27:04 PMIt is tough to get through some medical issues.  It helps if you have someone that can help you.
I hope you have many good days ahead of you.

Hugs,


Chrissy

Agreed, my spouse has been a huge help. The good thing is now I can truly focus on my health and getting me in position for a transplant.

Quote from: Mariah on August 31, 2026, 02:36:01 PMI get to go home today, but recovery will take a lot longer

@Mariah
Dearest Mariah:

    There is no place like HOME

GET WELL SOON!

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]

It is nice to be home. I finally composed my resignation letter for work and a text message to my team. It is hard to believe this is happening so quickly. At the end of the day, my health has to stabilize to get a transplant in the first place. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on September 01, 2026, 01:06:46 AMIt is nice to be home. I finally composed my resignation letter for work and a text message to my team. It is hard to believe this is happening so quickly. At the end of the day, my health has to stabilize to get a transplant in the first place. Hugs
Mariah

You are likely right on top of all of this.  Make sure you qualify your letter to state that it is your intent to retire with disability benefits that may apply now or when you achieve a set age.  If you just resign, you may give up these disability benefits, if any exist.  I do not know how resigning may impact your SSD qualifications, there are attorneys that specialize in disability law.  Also unemployment benefits may apply in the short term under some conditions but usually not if you resign.

Also, would be advisable to take a medical leave of absence instead of resigning to protect your job and health insurance?  It also may help you avoid COBRA which increases what you have to pay for insurance.

Work would have resigned me anyway tomorrow morning. They were not going to fire and never planned to. They would have set not being there equaled I had resigned. The letter they put together will be helpful in helping with benefits. I have been on medical leave for a good while no actually and also is to my favor. Sadly I am backed up against a wall with them. An attorney for disability is a must and having all my ducks in a row is necessary. I'm in such a condition now that I could end up back in the hospital any time just from dehydration thanks to the fact I'm still recovering from the last infection. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on September 01, 2026, 01:16:52 PMYou are likely right on top of all of this.  Make sure you qualify your letter to state that it is your intent to retire with disability benefits that may apply now or when you achieve a set age.  If you just resign, you may give up these disability benefits, if any exist.  I do not know how resigning may impact your SSD qualifications, there are attorneys that specialize in disability law.  Also unemployment benefits may apply in the short term under some conditions but usually not if you resign.

Also, would be advisable to take a medical leave of absence instead of resigning to protect your job and health insurance?  It also may help you avoid COBRA which increases what you have to pay for insurance.

Big HUGS to you Mariah.


Chrissy

Thank You. @ChrissyRyan  I do appreciate the advise you are trying to give. It is much appreciated. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on September 01, 2026, 06:33:15 PMBig HUGS to you Mariah.


Chrissy

I am thinking that you should be able to buy COBRA insurance, resigning or not, and it will be the same policy you have, if you have health insurance policy through your employer.  This makes a lot of sense for this year, especially so if all your copays, deductibles, and your out of pocket maximum have been reached.  If you do not have insurance from your employer than this COBRA does not matter. After this year, you will need to see if it makes sense to pay the COBRA rate.  It might.  I think you can be on COBRA for 18 months max.  But check this out as I am not an expert for sure on insurance, SSDisability, and employment laws.

Hugs,

Chrissy

I will start Cobra middle of this month because work is covering to the 15th after that Cobra will take over and be the plan tell my spouse has insurance to cover both of us. Even then we may choose to use Cobra through the end of the year before moving to Jamie's work insurance. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on September 01, 2026, 07:05:08 PMI am thinking that you should be able to buy COBRA insurance, resigning or not, and it will be the same policy you have, if you have health insurance policy through your employer.  This makes a lot of sense for this year, especially so if all your copays, deductibles, and your out of pocket maximum have been reached.  If you do not have insurance from your employer than this COBRA does not matter. After this year, you will need to see if it makes sense to pay the COBRA rate.  It might.  I think you can be on COBRA for 18 months max.  But check this out as I am not an expert for sure on insurance, SSDisability, and employment laws.

Hugs,

Chrissy

It's nice to have my old workplace in the rear view mirror so to speak as I meander what comes next. I have been getting lots of love from our to pets. They really do love to cuddle, but then again so does my spouse. In the process of gathering what is needed to move forward. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on September 05, 2026, 03:16:19 PMIt's nice to have my old workplace in the rear view mirror so to speak as I meander what comes next. I have been getting lots of love from our to pets. They really do love to cuddle, but then again so does my spouse. In the process of gathering what is needed to move forward. Hugs
Mariah

Someone once said to me:

The reason the rearview mirror is so small compared to the windshield is because...
YOU'RE NOT GOING THAT WAY!

It never hurts to look back and see where you have been. Just keep your focus on what's ahead.

I think you already know that.

Hugs!

Tis true, I do. I know it is for the best. It's nice to have that weight lifted off me. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Lori Dee on September 05, 2026, 05:43:53 PMSomeone once said to me:

The reason the rearview mirror is so small compared to the windshield is because...
YOU'RE NOT GOING THAT WAY!

It never hurts to look back and see where you have been. Just keep your focus on what's ahead.

I think you already know that.

Hugs!

Quote from: Lori Dee on September 05, 2026, 05:43:53 PMSomeone once said to me:

The reason the rearview mirror is so small compared to the windshield is because...
YOU'RE NOT GOING The beAT WAY!

It never hurts to look back and see where you have been. Just keep your focus on what's ahead.

I think you already know that.

Hugs!

Today my spouse started her new job and it is my first chance where I can just fully relax before I have to get a few things done this week to smooth out the transition and begin the application process for social security disability. As of now, I still have a few things to accomplish because deadlines exist for them, but eventually I will be able to rest more. Hugs
Mariah

Glad you can finally get things moving.

Ages ago, when I was fighting Social Security for my disability claim, a woman at the SS office told me that 80% of initial claims are denied, and 60% are denied on appeal. That was where I was at that stage. She said that it changes if you have an attorney and ask for a review. Then it goes up to 70% approved.

I hired an attorney (no cost - they get paid by SS) and got the case in front of an Administrative Judge. They have 90 days to decide, and he took 89.99999 days. Overall, the process took 18 months. During that time, I had a few family tragedies, and I ended up losing everything (bankruptcy, foreclosure, unable to work) and almost ended up homeless. I had no idea it would be that difficult.

Plan ahead, just in case. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. I think your situation may get approved right away, and that's what I am hoping for you. Good luck.

Lori, Thank you. I plan on involving an attorney in the mix just in case. My situation is unique, but the overwhelming case of everything together makes it hard for it not to get approved right off the bat or upon appeal. Anyway yeah I'm prepared ahead and know what to expect. Even my old workplace admitted they saw nothing they would be able to do because of how bad my health situation is. Anywho my focus right now is get the new insurance set up and then gather everything social security needs and apply. Hugs
Mariah

I saw the urologist today and provided a urine sample that we now have to wait on. I'm still having to eat fairly bland foods due to the healing of the colon. I'm glad that as of now I will be able to go to church Sunday, unless I end up back in the hospital before then. It changed what we are bringing to the potluck so I could eat something too. I will be glad to see people. Human interaction is so important sometimes. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Mariah on September 11, 2026, 04:06:38 PMI saw the urologist today and provided a urine sample that we now have to wait on. I'm still having to eat fairly bland foods due to the healing of the colon. I'm glad that as of now I will be able to go to church Sunday, unless I end up back in the hospital before then. It changed what we are bringing to the potluck so I could eat something too. I will be glad to see people. Human interaction is so important sometimes. Hugs
Mariah

I hope it all works out for you to enjoy this weekend.

Hugs,

Chrissy

Me too. For now it is working out. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on September 11, 2026, 06:29:08 PMI hope it all works out for you to enjoy this weekend.

Hugs,

Chrissy