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Summer 2002, I
suffered what I thought was a UTI while studying abroad in Europe. I knew
something was wrong when I had to pee what seemed like every minute of the
day. My bladder also felt like a 50 lb. weight and ached all day long. There
was even an instance or two when I lost control of my bladder before finding
the bathroom. I felt so ashamed. When I returned to
the states, my gynecologist prescribed Cipro and Ampicillin for the “UTI”,
but neither antibiotic worked. Later, I saw a urologist who offered to fill
my bladder with water and give me a prescription for a drug that would
alleviate the constant pressure in my bladder. I finally realized that
western medicine did not have a “fix” for my condition. I was devastated.
That evening, I stumbled upon this website, I
read Dr. Matia Brizman’s philosophy on IC and body imbalance and decided to
join the SuccessandInterstitialCystitis discussion group to learn more. I
took some time to talk to a few members and read as much as I could about
the treatment process. I started Matia's diet Thanksgiving weekend of ‘02.
Thanks to this diet, the pain and pressure in my bladder tapered off within
one month. Because I was thrilled with the results, I decided to follow
through with Matia’s herb treatment (I’m a long-distance patient). I have
been treating for almost 3 months with Matia. At this point, my frequency
has gone from 10-12 times a day to 4-6 times a day and 4-6 times at night to
0-1 times a night. It is truly a miracle.
Though I feel the closest to normal these days, I know I
still have a ways to go. I thank God for Matia’s dedication to treating
patients of IC and the wonderful support I’ve received on the discussion
group. I also thank Jane and Alyson for creating this website.
Update It is Spring 2007 - 5 years since I
began treatment and about 2 years since I've taken my last round of herbs.
I'd like to say that I'm back to normal now, but that is hardly the case. I
am in a better place than I was before I started having IC
symptoms. Allergies, slow digestion, and chronic eczema are no longer a
part of my life. What a lovely by-product of this treatment which I had
only hoped to help my bladder. My outlook on life is clear and positive.
My energy levels are high and most importantly - I am no longer conscious of
my bladder. A few years ago, I'd said that I've forgotten about ever having
IC and I still feel the same. :) I'm hiking and doing yoga and enjoying
life. Matia is a gem and I am thankful for all that she has done for the IC
community. Stay positive everyone!
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