OK I am going to go over a few points this week that I think are important to cover:

1) Someone asked me the other day if the discussions on the board are scewed a bit. I answered, well, if you mean that they represent a small population of the IC community in general and a small poplulation of the ICAMA population, then YES! People who are have a common bond find a way to meet and discuss. That has happened here and is no different than in the real world. Thos on this site (mostly) are in pain and need a place for an outlet. And, I am thrilled that that is what this is, and that, despsite that all of you have been able to maintain such an outstandingly positive vibe. I love that soemone can open these pages and not want to shoot themselves, but rather may find their hearts filled with hope and positive thinking. I thank all of you for this. We have succeeded in creating a lovely place for people to come and share. Do, remember, it IS a small population of people. People doing great or even fairly great in treatment often do not have the motivation to discuss on line. And, even some who are in a lot of pain, don't find solace in this kind of format. But, for those who do, it is a gift.

2) A few months ago one of my patients was in England and she was stopped by a police woman who happened to be another of my patients--NO JOKE. On the next visit they and another woman who is my patient all gathered together for a meeting. They could have gotten more people with more notice, but how fantastic is that? Last night in NYC a few of my patients made palns and went out to dinner. I am so happy that all of you are reaching out to each other and making getting better FUN! It IS a small world after all!

3) Lastly I want to say that the concept behind the idea of infection are one fundamental point that are largely misunderstood. This is the crux of the issues involving IC and its realted conditions. If you have not read my dissertation, PLEASE do! it is really important. A newer patient cam in who has had an awesome start--just fantastic. She then came in with a list of things that she had done, all of which set her back. And, it was the concepts that were the problem. She took monistat for a "yeast infection", used cortizone for a skin rash, used acne solution for her breakout, an OTC item for her cold, and an antibiotic for something else. I try really hard to explain things during the first consult, but the information is overwhelming. So, a lot of time people do not digest the information fully until many months after they have started treatment. Understanding more would have saved this woman from some heart ache. It is really difficult to undo years of conditioning. But, it can be done!

So, there it is--my week's end thoughts. Sorry for the diversity of topics. Have a good weekend everyone.