The Not So Yummy Journey

[crystal-jade]

My name is Crystal and I am 34 yrs old I Just got my diagnosis on Tuesday what a kick in the gut. Celiacs. I have been having symptoms for 7 yrs, serious for bout 18 mths heard everything from gallbladder to pancreas. My joints and muscles have been affected. Not to mention every digestive issue my dr thought up. I am at a lost as to even where to begin. I have done Internet searches of course but I still don't feel prepared to deal with all these changes I mean this is forever. What is one piece of advise you have found invaluable?

[kareng]

Here is a good place to start:

 

https://www.celiac.com/forums/topic/91878-newbie-info-101/

[nvsmom]

I'm sorry to hear you've been feeling so poorly but I'm glad you have a diagnosis and can move forwards towards healing.

 

Acceptance is the key to happiness... That was the best fortune cookie I ever got - or ever will get since I've never seen a gluten-free fortune cookie. LOL  I just found I had to accept it and move on. Really, we have no other choice. Fighting this diagnosis will get us no where, all we can do is embrace it and do the best we can with it.

 

It helped me to look on the bright side too. Celiac disease is the only autoimmune disease out there that the patient has full control over her or his own treatment. We don't have to rely on doctors to medicate us properly to just treat the symptoms. Over time, we can pretty much stop the autoimmune attack and actually heal. that doesn't happen in RA, Lupus, Diabetes (type 1) or even hashimotos. I consider it to be the best of a lot of other bad options.

 

Yes, it sucks that I can't eat any baked goods that I want, or that I have to read any processed food label, but in the long run it is probably better for my health anyways.

 

Best wishes to you. Give yourself time - possibly months to years - and you'll feel better.

 

And welcome to the board.