Arthritis Daily

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

My parents are too broke to get my medicine, which I need really badly. What could I do to help them out?????

-Worried in Watusa

Dear Worried in Watusa,

This is a very worthy and difficult question, definitely one that many people share. Ms. Meniscus assumes that you are relatively young, if your parents are paying for your medical needs, so she will advise on that assumption. Though it is often difficult for children to undertake financial burden, it is also noble that you wish to help your parents. There are many things you could do to assist them monetarily, all depending how old you are. Possibilities include: babysitting, lifeguarding, working at a library or local store, neighborhood yardwork or handywork, petsitting, dogwalking, and secretarial work, among others. Look into these options--though they don't offer huge cash incentives, every little bit will help you on your way. In addition, perhaps your parents could consult someone knowledgable about possible solutions. Medicine and healthcare are of utmost importance, and there are various programs (including loan systems) available.

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

I came across your website, and thought I would give this a shot - I had bi-lateral knee replacements Jan 8- I am now back at work two weeks, walking slowly but without aid; I am having a problem with my right kneecap, however - getting up it snaps and is quite painful for that second or two, so I need to use my arms to lift myself and kind of realign the muscle or something - I go back to my Dr in 6 months for xrays, - I don't know if I'm making sense, I guess I am looking for a bit of reassurance that this will work itself out. The surgery and rehab were grueling but worth it, I would have been in a wheel chair without this, so I am very grateful, and thus not wanting to complain.

-Grateful in Grand View

Dear Grateful in Grand View,

Congratulations on getting through your surgery and the process of rehab. Those accomplishments definitely deserve praise. Also--there is quite a difference between "complaining" and acknowledging that one is in pain and wondering what to do about it. Ms. Meniscus is not a medical doctor, but she suggests that if you are continuing to experience discomfort in your knee, you should definitely see a physician before six months go by. Perhaps the pain is standard for the first part of getting back on your feet, but perhaps it is not, and the best way to find out and ensure the best health possible is to ask your doctor about it. Good luck; your perserverance is heralded!

Dear Ms. Meniscus,

I've been with my boyfriend for over a year and I love him very much. I've had fibromyalgia for four years so i have been living with pain off and on for a while. Is it wrong to think that I don't deserve a good man because of all the pain I'm in? I sometimes wish that I was "healthy" because I wouldn't have to see the hurt looks on his face when I'm in pain. I feel like a burden to him sometimes and that it isn't fair to him to date and love someone like me. Is it wrong to feel this way?

-Guilty in Granada

Dear Guilty in Granada,

Ms. Meniscus would like to suggest that it's not a question of right or wrong, but of the unfortunate nature of disease and its psychology. It is wonderful that you have a loving and supportive relationship with your boyfriend. And it is more than understandable to wish your disease was not a factor in your life, for many reasons not just relevant to your relationship but to your own existence. It is indeed hard when we notice loved ones hurt because we do, but at the same time, compassion and care are what make life livable. It is not a matter of sympathy, or pity, but empathy and support. Ms. Meniscus is sure that if your boyfriend felt you were a burden, he would not be with you in this march. And she is also 100% positive that you have substantial, outstanding attributes--in other words, a lot to offer--so you should not feel as if you are a negative in anyone's life.

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