A.S. Face 0193: Jeff Baldizan
My name is Jeff, I live in Sacramento, CA. I’m 37 & have been suffering from pain for 20+ years recently (finally) diagnosed with AS. It has change my view on life & how we take each day for granted. I’m a newlywed & cherish my wife (she’s my latest, greatest inspiration… as Teddy Pendergrass put it). The pain is just there no matter how happy my day is. At this point I have tried Humira® but chronic infections put a stop to that. Vicodin® & Motrin® 800, don’t even take the edge off & swelling can be intense, sometimes all of my joints including pelvic area (ouch!) . I wish there was a cure & I’d never have to take another pill again for my pain. Indomethacin® hurts my stomach. I’m suffering without proper meds on a regular basis. I’d love to be able to tie my shoe, play with my god children. Heck, even have children or be able to pick them up. My spine continues to fuse, and so much damage has been done by not being treated early. I don’t want to admit that I am disabled, but that’s what I am. Dont get me wrong, there are days, literally, that I don’t feel anything at all. Then it kicks in with a vengeance. AS has taken a lot if my abilities, my strength, an active life, but my heart pushes on and I will keep moving. I am currently earning myself a degree in Information Technology since I can’t find an understanding employer. Live, love, life.
Prayers for all of you -Jeff Baldizan
Sacramento, California United States of America
And for you.
I live with the pain as well, to date not much in the way of “Biologics” have helped. I just started Simponi, I am currently experiencing a reaction.
I am do sorry, do NOT feel your strength is gone. You just proved it isn’t.
Many blessings,
Jacquie
My son sorry this has happen to you, being so young and a whole life ahead of you. I will keep praying for help for you to feel better and get the help you need for your “AS” you have. Keep being strong. You have a wonderful family by your side .
Keep your faith. and have a blessed live.
Love Mom an Pappa
Shit brother! you sound like me. talk to your Dr. about Gabapentin, i take 1000mg 3 times a day plus other drugs such as indomethison 50mg when i am realy inflamed didnt sleep well for years till i got on the gabapenti, take care.
Dear Jeff,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. One thing that A.S. has taught me, is to take life one day at a time, enjoy the simple pleasures and blessings, and not waste one minute of a pain free day. Good luck on your goals in life.
Sincerely Cookie
Thank you for allowing me to be part of this project. I will continue to push forward, even on painfull days & not waste any pain free ones dwelling on the swelling. Keep up the great work.
Jeff Thank you so much! Thank you for being a part of it! If it wasn’t for you courageous people we wouldn’t have this wonderful site.
Blessings my friend..
You are such an amazing man, never thought id find you like this but keep you faith leave it in gods hands
It is a hard road to live with AS trust i know all to well Single mom of 2 push myself to max daily at work but got to continue on I take Tramadol which helps here and thier but when its at its worst hurts like no other to walk but u make what u can of life I was diagosed back in 2005 lower portion fused and never gone back to dr since just live with it Good Luck keep ur head Up From Roswell NM