Fiercely Independent Pam

Category: Health

  • “B” is For Botox and Bladder: The Next Chapter!

    Almost three weeks ago I went for my first Botox injections series for my bladder. To catch you up the short story is after my hysterectomy in April of 2025, I lost the ability to fully empty by bladder by “normal” means. Sometimes it was ok and I could push out urine, other times it was completely impossible. So, I learned how to self-catherize using and in and out procedure each time. I do this 4-7 times a day depending on fluid intake. In addition, sometimes urgency is a major issue leading to leaks and messes.

    I am currently on two different medications to help as well: Gemtesa and Vesicare, both of which have helped tremendously, but I knew I was missing something else. In talking with my incredible Urologist at MUSC, he suggested Botox. I had used Botox in the past for headaches and didn’t have any adverse reactions so I thought this was a good idea.

    I had to wait for an appointment availability, but the time went quickly and soon enough my appointment happened. The process was done in the doctor’s office and the process was smooth but not the most comfortable. I will have a Telehealth appointment in a few weeks to follow up and then continue doing the injections every 5-6 months.

    Now for the positive… I was told it would take 2-4 weeks before I saw the results of the Botox injections, and right on cue, in the last couple of days I have seen great progress. I am now just waking up once per night and the urgency/leakage issues are almost non-existent! I am super happy thus far and the less than comfortable procedure was totally worth it for these results.

    I am so thankful for my honest, straight forward, and kind urologist a MUSC. He has helped me so much and his staff is wonderful. I am thankful for the nurse who took so much time to teach me how to self-cath and for his honesty that this could get better, but most likely not go away.

    I am tempted to place a “sorry for the graphic information” type thing, but also feel like this is my story. I can’t change what is happening to me, but only can change how I react. So, if you don’t like me talking about my bladder issues, I understand and more posts about dogs are coming! lol!

  • Paying the Price of a Fun Time: How Chronic Illness Always Wins!

    Chronic illness’ worst feature is that it ALWAYS shows up! Somedays you think you have outsmarted it and you got away with something, but payback stinks! I had a super busy and rewarding week. Besides my awesome PAALS visit, I had doctor’s appointments, tech classes, and some family/friends time. Now I am “paying” for it! I hate this.

    For the last 2 1/2-3 weeks I’ve been dealing with some nasty GI issues. I am not quite sure what is going on, but having trouble keeping food down after I eat, regardless of what I eat and dealing with some major abdominal pain. So far we know my platelets are low and my liver enzymes are super high and increasing. Additionally, my spleen is also enlarged. CT hasn’t shown any blockages or anything surgical, which is good since all my major disposable organs are gone!

    I have been working with an awesome, old school type GI doctor who has ordered a huge outpatient workup, but scheduling these tests in a timely manner has been difficult. Yesterday, I drew a line in the sand and decided something had to give. The pain was making me miserable.

    So, I am back at the hospital, trying to find some answers while they help manage the pain and nausea. I would be lying if if didn’t admit that I am nervous that this might go the direction I was going in several years ago, when I ended up with a PEG tube for feeding. That continues to be one of the hardest medical journeys I have taken. I just keep reminding myself that this is most likely something different and that is not the path we are on.

    I am thankful they admitted me this time. I need some answers and some relief. For now, I am resting and trying to get a hold of this stupid pain.

    I’ll be in touch with updates!

  • Anxiously Waiting for Lots of Things!How Not to Go Crazy in the Meantime!

    Currently I am cooking on multiple burners- lots going on and all need my attention. I love being busy and have always found that I do better the busier I am. I am moving in lots of different directions and all are super exciting.

    Now that summertime is here, doctor’s appointments and medical stuff seems to be slowing down, which is always appreciated. I am dealing with some major GI issues and find myself having a hard time keeping food down. The GI doctor believes it may have something to do with my liver and has ordered numerous tests to look into this theory. Other than that, my appointments are finally slowing down.

    I have decided to apply for a job as a math tutor. I am not sure what will come of it and how long I will be able to keep it up, but money is tight and I need to do something. Plus there is an opportunity to get Medicaid faster if I have a job. I really need these benefits, especially the transportation allowances.

    Additionally, I am working up a business plan for Fiercely Independent Pam and have the wonderful guidance of someone who knows what she is doing. All of this is very exciting, even if I am in uncharted waters.

    Finally, Wednesday is my BIG day for my service dog. I will be welcoming a delegation from PAALS here in my community. They will be conducting a home visit/inspection as well as a community visit. The most exciting part is that they will be bringing a dog to help with these tasks. Having a dog visiting my apartment is a huge step forward in this process. I am super excited!

    So, how does my anxiety stay controlled through all of this? On a wing and a prayer! Quite literally!! I recently ordered a new bracelet that reads- “God’s Timing.” This will remind me that it is all in His name and timing, not my own. This also means believing that His timing is perfect and not to question it. My Bible in a Year podcast is helping a lot as well. It keeps me focused and is a great way to start the day each morning. I am working hard to bring the Rosary back into my prayer time as well.

    A small sticker or a service dog wearing a PAALS cape!