The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
I've had a medical decision to face this week~take one medicine to help a serious problem, but the side effects may cause some other horrible things. I had to asks myself, have I, or can I, really turn my will over to HP? I thought, this is a test and it really counts. I don't know what the F--- to do, both choices could be bad, and I better step myself up to a real Step 3 because I need help here. My sponsor is also a big help, sharing ESH. So I have to go with the meds and HP. This is another leap of faith. If I examine what has happened with my alanon recovery, my mental health is so much better, and my coping skills, and my entire life. So I am going to turn this over to the Big Guy upstairs. At least He is there, and all of my alanon family. Love, Lyne
I do understand the dilemma in making choices on medications. I stopped smoking four years ago by using the new medication named:"Chandrix". I was smoking three packs of cigarettes a day and unable to stop by my own self will or the patch or the gum.. There were many adverse side effects of this medication that were published and many of my friends ended up in difficult a emotional state attributable to this medication. I was desperate, needed to stop and as you are doing worked my program to make the decision.
I am happy to say that the medication worked, I experienced no unpleasant side effects and I am smoke-free the last four years. I believe working the program making an informed decision and trusting the process worked for me.
I have also accepted that HP is in control and that what I need to know I will know at the appropriate time.
I know that feeling, Lyne. Making decisions while knowing that you also must turn it over to God. Sending you some virtual support today.
And, Betty, congratulations on quitting smoking. My dad tried everything, even that medication you took, and he couldn't quit. Well, maybe it was that he didn't want to bad enough, I don't know. The saddest thing about his death is that he was losing control of his arms due to a spinal tumor and other people would hold his cigarettes for him and let him smoke a few. They did this for weeks until he finally passed away. I think the smoking did more damage to him than the drinking did, quite frankly.
Dear Lyne: Lots of good e/s/h you've received. I have had to struggle with making decisions about my health and suggested treatments, too. I sometimes know too much medical terminology, etc for my own good. One thing that has benefited me when in doubt is to do what you have done - researched and listened - and turned things over until I'm no longer in doubt about which way to proceed. I've learned that trying to force solutions or make decisions before I feel more peace than I do seldom works for me. If I let things cook for awhile, trusting that I'll know what I need to know to make a good decision and trusting that no matter what decision I make, my HP will be with me to guide me and to support me, I feel more confident when I finally make a decision and act on it. Lots of support as you and your HP work out with your physicians the best way to proceed with your health issues. (((L)))