Shelley Ensz Posted December 6, 2016 Hi All, We seldom celebrate number of posts or number of years membership around here. But Margaret has reached a special milestone recently, with over 1,000 posts and 10 years of solid Sclero Forums membership. She's been a steady support to hundreds, now thousands, of forums members over the years, in addition to being a well-informed caregiver for her son Gareth. So, I thought it would be fun to declare this International Margaret Day. Join me in kicking up your heels and having fun with the "Smiley" function in our forums. Many congrats, Margaret! Warm Hugs, Shelley Ensz Founder and President International Scleroderma Network (ISN) Hotline and Donations: 1-800-564-7099 The most important thing in the world to know about scleroderma is sclero.org. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Margaret Posted December 7, 2016 Morning Shelley, Thank you, for the smiles and giggles so early this morning. I can remember when I had to ask how to use the emoticoms This site has been my life saver the past 10 years. Yes, 10 years ago I thought Gareth wouldn't be around too long. I was scared, afraid, and totally confused. He's had his ups and downs and everyone has been here, with me, to guide me and explain what he is going through. Tomorrow morning, he has a Hydrogen breath test, to rule out bacterial overgrowth. I guess it's one of the first tests to rule out mal-absorption due to slow motility. He's lost 30 pounds since June, without changing his diet. He has a new gastric doctor since the old one moved on to another hospital. I'll miss her -- she was so nice and really good! On a brighter side, I have a friend that I have known for 3 years now, who comes into the thrift store I volunteer at twice a week. She has been suffering with scleroderma/UCTD for the past 25 years! I never knew and we started yakking for 20 minutes! She told me how she's suffering with esophageal issues now, a usual flare, she said. I told her Gareth was having *issues*. Thank you, for starting this site and turning it into the best information/educational site. Have a good day, everyone. Margaret Mom to Gareth, 28 years old, DS/ASD Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
judyt Posted December 7, 2016 Congratulations Margaret, that is what we are here for to inform and support. It is great that you have stayed with us all these years and are still getting help and comfort. It must be so hard seeing your loved son suffering. Best wishes Judyt Judy Trewartha ISN Support Specialist International Scleroderma Network (ISN) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joelf Posted December 9, 2016 Many congratulations, Margaret!! I'm joining in a little late with belated good wishes to you, Gareth and the rest of the family. You're such a staunch and valued member to everyone, giving helpful advice and support wherever it's needed, as well as being a wonderful caregiver for Gareth. May the next ten years be good and happy for you and the rest of your family. My very best wishes, Jo Frowde ISN Board Member ISN Secretary of the Board ISN Assistant Webmaster SD World Webmaster ISN Sclero Forums Manager ISN News Manager ISN Hotline Support Specialist International Scleroderma Network (ISN) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sweet Posted December 9, 2016 Congrats Margaret !!! Warm and gentle hugs, Pamela ISN Support Specialist International Scleroderma Network (ISN) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
