My family experienced the most amazing road trip in the summer of 2016. We headed west on Interstate 20, our goal being Sierra Vista, Arizona. A special package needed to be picked up, one which could only be attained in person. In order to make it a full-out road trip, we planned a few spectacular stops along the way.
I was perfectly healthy before, and during, our entire nine-day journey. After driving 4,614 memorable miles, I stepped out of my car onto my driveway—more familiar ground. My body instantly alerted me something was was horribly wrong. It was Thursday, June 16.
Incredible pain, and monstrous swelling, quickly enveloped my feet and ankles. I could barely walk into the house. One would think the cause was merely our long journey, or typical hot, humid, South Carolina day, but I sensed otherwise. Within fourteen days, my entire body was in utter chaos. Every bone screamed at me when moving, and equally while motionless! I thought I had bone cancer.
Life as I knew it, would never be the same. A quest for an elusive diagnosis quickly ensued, eventually leading me to Dr. G, a highly sought after rheumatologist.
Five Months Later—My Fourth and Final Doctor…
“The doctor will be with you shortly.” The nurse stepped out of the exam room after completing her list of preliminaries. My height, weight, blood pressure, and temperature were all within normal range.
“Great.” I thought to myself. “No red flags. He’s gonna think I’m nuts!”
Physically and mentally exhausted, I walked to the large pane window where 
I blankly stared at the construction crew building the new hospital parking garage next door. With my forehead pressed against the cold glass, I was close to tears, but snapped out of my stupor when Dr. G opened the door. Finally, the moment I’ve been waiting for!
His friendly smile and charming personality instantly put me at ease. He stated his last name in order to clarify the pronunciation, but I still call him Dr. G. He doesn’t seem to mind.
After some small talk, he asked what brought me to him. I quickly replied, “God.” He didn’t comment, but smiled and proceeded to ask several questions. When I mentioned my phenomenal Arizona road trip, Dr. G briefly interrupted and said that environmental factors could possibly trigger symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
He urged me to continue sharing the circumstances following my trip, so I told my “after” story…again. I poured my heart out…again. I was emotional…again. Absentmindedly, I said, “I’m beginning to sound like a broken record,” but this was the first time he heard the progression of my unfortunate chain of events, so I continued.
Having his undivided attention, and in order to amply convey the severity of my pain, the next ten, gut wrenching words were audibly spoken from the deepest, darkest depths of my soul. I finally shared this thought audibly for the very first time…
“I just feel like I’m living in an alternate universe!” I exclaimed.
“Wait—what was that? Where did those words come from? I’m so sorry. I didn’t intend to share that with anyone.”
Dr. G simply replied with his finger resting on his chin…
“Hmm…I’ve never heard it quite like that before. Apologies aren’t necessary.”
Having said that, I surmised other patients had similar conversations with him. I’m fairly certain he’d probably heard it all. The audible words, alternate universe, spoken by me, now understood by someone else somehow empowered me. With the fog lifted, if only for a few seconds, I felt a sense of control in an uncontrollable situation.
I thought, “God, is that You?”
This mind-bending pain was not all in my head, nor was it due to growing older. At that moment, it was merely a curious case—but of what? We had no idea, but had to start somewhere. We began where previous doctors did—blood work—again.
With peace that passes all understanding, I would carry on, and smile along the way.
Having Dr. G on my side, I could indelibly say, I’m good, I’m good! Knowing the people in his waiting room were experiencing similar symptoms, I transported into the realm of a new alternative universe.
The only difference now—I no longer felt alone!
“And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.”
Genesis 28:15 King James Version (always)
The links for my “Road Trip” series are easily linked here for easier access.
My Alternate Universe 
Wow! What a drastic shift! I think you’ve described it perfectly!
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Wow! You’re a person of amazing courage and valour. Sending you hugs and more power to you!
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Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words.
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Being sick puts people in such a vulnerable and awful position. I’m glad that you are able to maintain such a positive outlook. Just out of curiosity was rheumatoid arthritis your final diagnosis? Are you feeling better and how have the subsequent visits to the doctor been?
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I am feeling much better, but haven’t had a pain free day since June 16, 2016. My doctor is fantastic tweaking the medication, which keeps me at a two or three on the famous “one to ten” scale. This level is tolerable. All other illnesses have been ruled out which leaves “pain related to rheumatoid arthritis.” I have tested negative for it, but sought treatment immediately. Sometimes RA takes time to rear its ugly head in blood work. My RA doc and I are patiently waiting. It is never a quick diagnosis in this situation, (which he shared with me at my first appointment.) With the joint involvement, and pain levels I reached, there’s no other explanation. My “bonus” daughter was diagnosed at the age of 27. My niece was diagnosed at the age of 18 months. It’s a vicious disease but I am blessed beyond measure and truly enjoy writing and sharing my story. Thank you for reading.
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I enjoy reading your blog. You are a very good writer.
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Thank you. I am a novice, but certainly love the release it gives to me. Maybe one day…one can only dream.
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You should do what makes you happy. Dream and believe,
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I’m at a lose. This is amazing what you’ve been going through. I hope and trust that you will find the help with this Dr. G to control the pain and be able to help others through your writing.
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Thank you! Writing has been a powerful tool in healing. Dr. G is phenomenal! I couldn’t imagine my life without him! I appreciate you reading and commenting on my blog.
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I love this post Marianna – and I love the way it all ties in with the the theme of your site.
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Thank you! You have a keen sense of awareness my friend. 😉 All posts lead to this one! I appreciate your encouragement, kindness, and inspiration!
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