So glad to be included here.  It's been a VERY long, painful life, but I'm still here and still willing to make the best life I can.  I managed to give up career, family, friends, financial security when hit with CFIDS, and survived by finding other things that brought a sense of accomplishment and joy.  Over the years the arthritis and "other ills" have slowly erroded away even that.  Most recently, the Fibro (combined with the OA in all major joints) has rendered me nearly house-bound.  I don't like it, and I'm having a hard time accepting this on top of the others, ya know??  Add to that a miserable personal relationship (we "own" a house together... long story) and life just ain't pretty right now.  I really hope to gather information I can use for decision making.... but I also want to support, love, and encourage others.  I've had a few wonderful "cyber-friends" that have held me up over the last few years... and I want to pass it on.