Today I went for my follow-up with the opthamologist. I told him that since seeing him, I had been diagnosed with MS. He made a notation of it, but he didn't seem too concerned. He said that it had not affected by optic nerve, which is good news. I have to go back in 4 months for a field vision test. I wonder how long I will have to keep going back? The last time it was 6 months between visit; this time 4 months. Thankfully my visits are medical, rather than optical, so my insurance will cover it. (I don't have vision insurance). Though, he considers me pre-glaucoma (I have borderline eye pressure) and now with MS, he wants to keep things in check.

I am really thankful to be where I am right now, in terms of where I am living and the hospital I go to. On all of my bills, there is a statement that says, "____ Hospital has a financial assistance program to assist patients who qualify." Well, I applied for some help with my bills, as I had a $1000 deductible, plus a few other costs above that. I am sure I will incur more charges on my follow up tests, too. The hospital completely cleared me of my bills--they wrote them off, and consider me to be paid in full. On one hand, I feel kind of bad. On the other hand, I submitted our financial records and we did qualify, so I suppose it is to help people like us. We are a young couple--I am a full time grad student and work part time--and my husband works at a popular bakery restaurant while looking for something in the field in which he has a degree. So, surprise--we really don't have a lot of money. Plus, Chicago is pretty dang expensive. I consider the help a blessing, and really, I don't think I should feel ashamed, should I?

Thanks for the advice on the injection-site reactions. I have tried ice and rubbing, which doesn't seem to help. They aren't painful, thankfully, just not pretty. I guess no miniskirts or mid-riff tops for me! (This is even funnier if you really know me!)

I am kind of impressed with the sense of "community" I have found through this journal. The words of encouragement from people I know, but perhaps moreso from the people I have never met is surprising and welcomed. So, thank you.