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Author Topic: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%  (Read 33384 times)

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Offline rigger82

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Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« on: July 06, 2012, 10:58:49 am »

I don't really know where to turn and this site popped into my head immediately.

I had a psychotic breakdown last year and threw my meds away. I just started to feel a bit tired lately and I got my mind back together with help from psych ward.

To cut a long story short, I gave blood on monday and just called up to see the result. i have zero CD4 count and 3% something else. Apparently I may have been this way for sometime, but now i KNOW i'm freaking.

Got Dr on monday. Can you come back from zero? I'm just a little tired, other than that feel fine.

Hope to hear from you guys. I just turned 30 last month and was infected at 15yrs but diagnosed at 23 yrs  old.

PLEASE come back with some info. I was just told on the 'phone and my heart is racing.

Gary x

Offline Rockin

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #1 on: July 06, 2012, 11:49:38 am »
I don't really know where to turn and this site popped into my head immediately.

I had a psychotic breakdown last year and threw my meds away. I just started to feel a bit tired lately and I got my mind back together with help from psych ward.

To cut a long story short, I gave blood on monday and just called up to see the result. i have zero CD4 count and 3% something else. Apparently I may have been this way for sometime, but now i KNOW i'm freaking.

Got Dr on monday. Can you come back from zero? I'm just a little tired, other than that feel fine.

Hope to hear from you guys. I just turned 30 last month and was infected at 15yrs but diagnosed at 23 yrs  old.

PLEASE come back with some info. I was just told on the 'phone and my heart is racing.

Gary x

Gary Im really sorry to hear this. I never been in this situation before but, if are feeling fine in general I think its a good sign indeed.

My doctor said he already took care of patients who had CD4 in the single digits and they bounced back.

But I do feel that waiting until Monday is not gonna do your mental health any good. Is there any way to see a doctor today or tomorrow?

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #2 on: July 06, 2012, 12:06:44 pm »
My clinic is shut at 5pm.

My head is going nuts.

Losing a grip. I suffer quite deep psychosis.

I've PCP. Esophegal Candida (awful). I'm in near permanent pain with herpes that aciclovir wont shift and I can sleep for 30 hours.

I had a voice a year ago on a boat that told me to chuck them in the sea and not take them again.

Told my shrink but they dismissed me and i never went back to the clinic. My boyf and mum made me go on monday. ZERO?? Shouldnt I be dead?

Can I reverse this?

Offline leatherman

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #3 on: July 06, 2012, 12:35:46 pm »
ZERO?? Shouldnt I be dead?

Can I reverse this?
no immune system, aka cd4 0, doesn't mean immediate death. It just means that you're vulnerable to any disease that comes along because your immune system is no longer fighting at all.

I had 5 cd4s AND PCP pneumonia and was in the hospital for 5 days. I wasn't able to get meds until 2 months later because there was no ASO in my area and getting state medicaid took a while. That was 18 yrs and 3 months and 2 wks ago, so yes it's possible to reverse this and recover. ;) However, you need to get onto meds ASAP and stay on the them. HIV medications should NEVER be stopped once started, no matter what one thinks (or what the voices say. ;) )

No not miss your doctor appointment on Monday and best wishes to you!
leatherman (aka Michael)

We were standing all alone
You were leaning in to speak to me
Acting like a mover shaker
Dancing to Madonna then you kissed me
And I think about it all the time
- Darren Hayes, "Chained to You"

Offline Rockin

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #4 on: July 06, 2012, 12:47:47 pm »
My clinic is shut at 5pm.

My head is going nuts.

Losing a grip. I suffer quite deep psychosis.

I've PCP. Esophegal Candida (awful). I'm in near permanent pain with herpes that aciclovir wont shift and I can sleep for 30 hours.

I had a voice a year ago on a boat that told me to chuck them in the sea and not take them again.

Told my shrink but they dismissed me and i never went back to the clinic. My boyf and mum made me go on monday. ZERO?? Shouldnt I be dead?

Can I reverse this?

Gary if theres no way to see a doctor before Monday then I'd suggest you stay indoors as much as possible, you have to avoid viruses and bacterias now. Not that you can't get them indoors but at least I'd say its safer.

Maybe even using a mask? Not sure if it helps but it might calm you down a little. And ask your boyfriend to stay by your side.

But don't panic. Take leatherman's advice, you can bounce back from this. Be positive.

Offline Solo_LTSurvivor

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #5 on: July 06, 2012, 01:02:18 pm »

 I do not have HIV/AIDS but my mental conditions are enough.


Matrix, we know you mean well but since you do NOT have HIV, you probably should not be posting here on this particular forum.  Be sure and read the Welcome Message.

Modified: looks like the great mods are on the case  ;)
« Last Edit: July 06, 2012, 01:05:48 pm by Ann »
don't equate intelligence with lack of masculinity
Jim Phelps, Mission Impossible
____________________________

Seroconverted: Early 80s
Tested & confirmed what I already knew: early 90s

Current regimen: Biktarvy. 
Last regimen:  Atripla (with NO adverse side effects: no vivid dreams and NONE of the problems people who can't tolerate this drug may experience: color me lucky ::))
Past regimens
Fun stuff (in the past):  HAV/HBV, crypto, shingles, AIDS, PCP

Jan 2012: 818/21%
Apr 2012: 964/22%
Jul. 2012: 890/21%
Oct. 2012: 920/23%

Still UD after all these years

Offline RWR

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #6 on: July 06, 2012, 01:07:32 pm »
I think thst was a silly ideal to toss Your meds into the sea. I was at 6 at one point and coming back. Good luck
Hiv+ 1986


Bobby

Offline Ann

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #7 on: July 06, 2012, 01:09:03 pm »
Solo, I edited your post to edit the quote - I only left the relevant info and deleted the terrible advice.



Hi Rigger, welcome to the forums.

I think you'll be ok until Monday, or maybe try to get an emergency appointment for tomorrow. You don't need to do any of the stuff that Matrix told you to do, if you managed to read his post before I deleted it.

Lots of people have bounced back from single digit numbers and you can too. Stay on your meds this time!

Good luck and keep us posted. :)

Ann
« Last Edit: July 06, 2012, 01:21:25 pm by Ann »
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"...health will finally be seen not as a blessing to be wished for, but as a human right to be fought for." Kofi Annan

Nymphomaniac: a woman as obsessed with sex as an average man. Mignon McLaughlin

HIV is certainly character-building. It's made me see all of the shallow things we cling to, like ego and vanity. Of course, I'd rather have a few more T-cells and a little less character. Randy Shilts

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #8 on: July 06, 2012, 01:13:12 pm »
I think thst was a silly ideal to toss Your meds into the sea. I was at 6 at one point and coming back. Good luck

Of course it was silly. I was not in my right mind at the time. I was having a schizo/psychotic episode that lasted for a long time and I was sectioned.

Thanks for your wishes of luck  ;)

Offline joemutt

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #9 on: July 06, 2012, 01:24:34 pm »
I hope you will receive the treatment you need and will get better soon.  :)

Offline emeraldize

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #10 on: July 06, 2012, 01:56:32 pm »
Hiya Rigger,

Welcome -- even though in a heightened state -- you need a proper welcome.

Just yesterday, I was talking with a young man who has herpes and acyclovir is not effective for him, only Valtrex is. So, only because I bumped into this info so recently am I passing it along.

Look at each of these as hurdles and, you're gonna jump them with help one at a time.

It's gonna feel like a long weekend to you until you have your appointment on Monday. So hang out here. Plan to eat well. And we'll definitely be around -- the whole family of us.

Em

Offline drewm

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #11 on: July 06, 2012, 02:10:21 pm »
I was dxd in the hospital with pneumonia. My CD4 count was 8. VL was a half million. A doctor from MD Anderson Cancer Center told me "we can reverse these numbers and you will be OK."

That was two years ago. CD4 today is between 280 and 330 and I am undetectable. Get to your doc as soon as you can and remain adherent to the meds.  ;)

Diagnosed in  May of 2010 with teh AIDS.

PCP Pneumonia . CD4 8 . VL 500,000

TRIUMEQ - VALTREX -  FLUOXETINE - FENOFIBRATE - PRAVASTATIN - CIALIS


Numbers consistent since 12/2010 - VL has remained undetectable and CD4 is anywhere from 275-325

Offline CraigMKE

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #12 on: July 06, 2012, 07:20:25 pm »
I started my diagnosis with a cd4 of 7. Still alive and kicking. Hang on. It will be ok.

Offline mecch

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #13 on: July 06, 2012, 07:53:30 pm »
Gary / Rigger, your two posts in this thread are contradictory.

You open by saying you feel tired but otherwise fine.

A lithe while later, you say you have PCP, thrush, and unchecked herpes.

Which is is?

Hear you on the collapsed immune system.

Hear you about the severe mental challenges.  Thus the confusing posting, above?? 
“From each, according to his ability; to each, according to his need” 1875 K Marx

Offline tednlou2

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #14 on: July 07, 2012, 12:27:50 am »
I was also confused by your current health situation.  I'm sorry to hear about your current numbers, but I'm so glad you now know them and are taking action.  I got down to 171 and freaked out.  I can only imagine the stress and fear you're experiencing.  My ex got down to a CD4 of 2.  However, he only learned this after being hospitalized with many issues.  So, it is good you know and have an appointment to get back on meds, and prevent getting ill.  We've all heard of similar counts here (many experiencing themselves) and are now doing very well.

About feeling fine, I know several have said here that people with very low CD4's can feel totally fine, because their immune systems aren't kicking in to fight off common things like a cold or flu--if your immune system isn't working, you may not get fevers, for example, which is the immune system's response to being sick. 

I wish you all the best with your physical and mental health.  Please let us know how your appt goes and updates on your increasing CD4 counts over the next few months.  I would have thought your doc would have called in a prescription for Bactrim, until you can be seen.

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #15 on: July 07, 2012, 03:21:29 am »
Hi Mechh

I wrote my post in a panic and I get what you mean. My grammar wasn't right.

I've HAD PCP before, in 2006 when I was diagnosed.

I have, right now, herpes that won't budge.

Last week I had candida in my mouth and throat and every time I ate it felt like it was getting stuck in my CHEST and not going down properly. I didn't know candida could go all the way down. Just thought it was a mouth thing. I went and bought Fluconazole and that helped surprisingly quickly.

I have had septrin before, but was very allergic to it, so I have to use a pentamadine nebuliser which I gather I will use straight away on Monday.

About these fevers. Not noticed any in the day but in the last 2 weeks, when I wake up in the middle of the night, I am dripping wet along with my pillows and sheets but am ok in the day.

I say I feel fine, but I mean that in a way that I can stand, walk etc. but I can't walk far and have no energy. Just a 300 meter walk and I have to sit down, but I'm not on my back unable to move.

I randomly vomit though, just out of the blue. No nausea, can't feel it coming, then bang! I just throw up. Happens in the street, home, everywhere. Don't know the cause of that. Metroclopromide don't help, as I don't feel nautious.

I'm sure on Monday my doc is going to nuts but hopefully find a new regime. I am a massive needle phobic, not intramuscular, they are fine, but vein ones, wow. I nearly faint every time. In 6 years it's still as bad as the first time. I even wear a pillow case so I can no way be tempted to see what they're doing.

Thanks for your reply. This weekend is gonna really drag.

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #16 on: July 07, 2012, 03:25:36 am »
Gary / Rigger, your two posts in this thread are contradictory.

You open by saying you feel tired but otherwise fine.

A lithe while later, you say you have PCP, thrush, and unchecked herpes.

Which is is?

Hear you on the collapsed immune system.

Hear you about the severe mental challenges.  Thus the confusing posting, above??

I've had pcp before. Was hell. There's no way I could manage to write a post if currently had pcp.

I wrote in a frenzied way, so I see how it came across.

Offline J.R.E.

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #17 on: July 07, 2012, 04:33:50 am »
Hello Gary,

Welcome !  I can tell you, that from experiences, things will get better for you. In 2003, ( 18 years after I was infected  with HIV, I began treatment).    I was one very, sick, weak and tired individual, with several different OI's going on, including having Bacterial pneumonia, Esophageal candida, massive weight loss. My lips for a short period of time, looked as though they went through a meat grinder. Fatigue was incredible

 My t-cell count in September of 2003 was 16, a viral load over 500,000, and a percentage that went as low as 4%.  Once I got started on all the proper medications, things started improving quickly. I am sure they will for you too.

You will need to get on the proper medications, to help get you through this rough period.  And it is a rough period. So, listen very closely to your doctor this Monday.  I would suggest, that you bring someone with you , that you can trust, that can help you with this doctors office visit on Monday. It can really help, to have someone there with you.

You will need to be on some sort of prophylaxis, to prevent opportunistic infections from taking hold. Diflucan can get rid of thrush. I was on that. You may be on a few additional pills ( besides HAART) , to  help pull you through this.  But you will pull through, and it won't always be an easy road, until you start boosting those T-cells back to over 200. 



Most importantly, you need to be dedicated,  to getting yourself back to good health again.  Which means, taking ALL your medication, when your supposed to, and not MISSING or SKIPPING any doses, and keeping up with the blood tests, that the doctor may order for you. This is crucial to your recovery.  As time goes on, some of those medications can be stopped, the blood testing will become less frequent. ( I know you hate needles)

It also means, eating right, getting the proper nutrition,  sleeping right, and knowing when to just slow down a bit, when your feeling exhausted or tired.

Hang in there.  Things will get better, but the ball is in your court now, so take care of yourself, and be patient.
Things may take some time, but it will get better.

If there are questions you need to ask your doctor, this is a good time, to write all those questions down in a notepad.  And take that notepad with you, when you see him/her on Monday.

Keep us posted, and try to take it easy---Ray
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline Ann

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #18 on: July 07, 2012, 09:12:35 am »

My lips for a short period of time, looked as though they went through a meat grinder.


Just curious Ray, did that happen only after you started Diflucan? I ask because every time I have to take that stuff, I get sore, chapped lips. The first time it happened I thought it was coincidence (being winter), but it's happened every time since, regardless of the season or weather.

Hang in there Rigger!
Condoms are a girl's best friend

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"...health will finally be seen not as a blessing to be wished for, but as a human right to be fought for." Kofi Annan

Nymphomaniac: a woman as obsessed with sex as an average man. Mignon McLaughlin

HIV is certainly character-building. It's made me see all of the shallow things we cling to, like ego and vanity. Of course, I'd rather have a few more T-cells and a little less character. Randy Shilts

Offline wolfter

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #19 on: July 07, 2012, 10:00:18 am »
Want to send some support your way.  I feel your pain and think I understand your feelings.  I wish I could go back and take my own advice that I'm sending your way; you should consider talking with a professional or at a minimum, continue seeking support here.

I too had some sort of psychotic episode that I didn't recognize a few years ago after I lost my long term partner.  I seldom reveal this; but I made the idiotic decision to stop taking my meds.  In my mind, it was a morally sanctioned way to end my life without actually doing so.  I didn't have the mental resources to think through the repercussions of my decision.

I ended up with single digit CD4's with a VL of 6.7 million and was suffering horribly.  But after a while, I did bounce back (once again) and I'm confident you will also. 

Take care and sending you positive energy.

Wolfie
Being honest is not wronging others, continuing the dishonesty is.

Offline J.R.E.

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #20 on: July 07, 2012, 02:07:35 pm »
Just curious Ray, did that happen only after you started Diflucan? I ask because every time I have to take that stuff, I get sore, chapped lips.

Hang in there Rigger!


Hello Ann,...

Kind of hard to remember. There was a few weeks there, of just being in a daze !   :-\       I was just checking some on my previous start times on prescriptions:

On 9/27/03, I was started on:

Prednisone--20mg tablets

Vi-q- tuss - liquid

Sulphameth/ trimethoprim 800/160 tabs ( later changed to Dapsone)

Diflucan --100mg tabs.



On 10/15/03, I was started on

Valtrex 1gram tablets and

Zithromax 600mg tabs ( this was taken two times a week)


On 10/23/03

I start on HAART:

Viramune,  Epivir, and ( at that time Zerit)


What a pill factory I was back then  :o   



Gary,


You've seen what I've been though back in 03.  But I am happy to say, my t-cells are currently at 507, and undetectable. Current % is at 17. Overall I would say I am doing very well !



You'll get there---Ray




 
« Last Edit: July 07, 2012, 02:21:00 pm by J.R.E. »
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline onemoretime

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #21 on: July 07, 2012, 04:40:43 pm »
i just did a year of HCV treatment including incivik.. it destroyed my labs... still undectable but cd4 dropped to 150 from years of 600...GET ON BACTRUM IMMEDATLY!!!!!!!  NO UNCOOKED FOOD......its great you feel ok
08/04 diag 490 cd4 vl 50,000
10/25/05 436 50,513 hvb 1.1 billion
12/13/05 truvada sustiva
02/16/06 742 und, hpb 63,000
04/27/06 740 und hpb 60,000
01/05/07 458 und hvb und
03/08   470 undetectable still on atripla. Non smoking (chantex)
08/08 cd4 550 undetectable hiv, Hep B UND. Atripla
06/09  cd4 444, vl undetectable testo 130
09/09/09 CD4 687 46% UND  Testo 213 started androgel
10/12/09 cd4 682 46% und testo 597
01/12/10 cd4 842 48% und testo 434
041010 cd4 693  53% testo 492
100410 cd4 568 48% testo 523
012711 cd4 523 hcv 56 testo 596
083011 cd4 280 Hcv/HIV und
042912 cd4 158 hcv /hiv und, was on hep c for 11 months. do have ssdi filed and getting LTD
061912 cd4 151, bactrum, hep c and hiv und
071712 cd4 287 52% HIV HCV und
112012 cd4 520

Offline Newguy

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #22 on: July 07, 2012, 07:38:10 pm »
I am not downplaying Gary's situation but hypothetically speaking if he were insulated like in a bubble for some time so he does not get sick, shouldn't the virus wipe itself out? Remember the medicine just inhibits the virus so no further replication occurs but I believe the body clears out viremia in the blood stream. So if the virus depletes all his available CD4 cells including the reservoirs since they are actively replicating, should not the virus disappear  from his immune system. I am trained in molecular biology by the way.

But anyhow good luck to your health Gary.

Offline mecch

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #23 on: July 07, 2012, 08:37:46 pm »
I am not downplaying Gary's situation but hypothetically speaking if he were insulated like in a bubble for some time so he does not get sick, shouldn't the virus wipe itself out? Remember the medicine just inhibits the virus so no further replication occurs but I believe the body clears out viremia in the blood stream. So if the virus depletes all his available CD4 cells including the reservoirs since they are actively replicating, should not the virus disappear  from his immune system. I am trained in molecular biology by the way.

But anyhow good luck to your health Gary.

Oh my god shocking ignorance Newguy!! NOoooooooooooooooooo!  Trained how? Jeeeeeeeez!  Jesus!
“From each, according to his ability; to each, according to his need” 1875 K Marx

Offline Buckmark

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #24 on: July 07, 2012, 08:38:57 pm »
I am not downplaying Gary's situation but hypothetically speaking if he were insulated like in a bubble for some time so he does not get sick, shouldn't the virus wipe itself out? Remember the medicine just inhibits the virus so no further replication occurs but I believe the body clears out viremia in the blood stream. So if the virus depletes all his available CD4 cells including the reservoirs since they are actively replicating, should not the virus disappear  from his immune system. I am trained in molecular biology by the way.

But anyhow good luck to your health Gary.

It wouldn't be just a question of isolating the patient in a bubble, because the body itself often harbors some pathogens that the immune system keeps under control.  For example, a large percentage of the population (>50% I believe) has been exposed to CMV during their lifetimes.  Viruses can go into latent states in certain long-lived types of cells and tissues.  So when CD4s are depleted, these latent viruses within the body essentially have free reign.   Essentially, the body needs to be protected from what is already inside of it, as well as external pathogens.

Back to the OP, Gary, I hope you get the needed attention right away.  You need to be on anti-viral meds.  Just because you feel fine doesn't mean you are fine -- your health situation could change rapidly.  Fortunately, with the right meds, I think you can get this under control, but you need to act quickly and decisively. 

Regards,

Henry





The problem is that HIV can go into a latent state in long-lived types of cells / tissues, which made it impossible (thus far) to completely eradicate from the body.  Even if you could kill off all
"Life in Lubbock, Texas, taught me two things:
     One is that God loves you and you're going to burn in hell.
     The other is that sex is the most awful, filthy thing on earth and you should save it for someone you love."
- Butch Hancock, Musician, The Flatlanders

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #25 on: July 08, 2012, 02:01:24 am »
His people.

Thanks for all your advice..

In my original post I said I feel fine.

Yesterday candida popped up and I found it hard to swallow. Bought fluconazole immediately.

It's 7 am now and I have woken up 3 times dripping in sweat and have this unbelievable pain EVERYWHERE. my whole body is aching. Like a pulsating pain. Have just taken painkillers.

NOW I'm scared. This is something I've never felt before. I see my doc at 1 pm tomorrow

My hands are stiff and cold and my back ...... Wow. Huge ache.

What is this? Praying it goes away.

Offline Common_ground

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #26 on: July 08, 2012, 02:12:27 am »
Im not a doctor but If I were in your situation I would drag myself to the ER asap. With your counts you should already be in-patient and under the supervision of a doctor. Dont stress out thou, but you need to seek medical care.

Youll be fine but better to be safe than sorry.
2011 May - Neg.
2012 June CD4:205, 16% VL:2676 Start Truvada/Stocrin
2012 July  CD4:234, 18% VL:88
2012 Sep  CD4:238, 17% VL:UD
2013 Feb  CD4:257, 24% VL:UD -viramune/truvada
2013 May CD4:276, 26% VL:UD

2015 CD4: 240 , 28% VL:UD - Triumeq
2015 March CD4: 350 VL: UD

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #27 on: July 08, 2012, 02:41:22 am »
The ambulances here will only take you to one of 2 local hosps.

Both do not HIV docs or drugs.

My hosp is on the other side of London and I cannot afford a cab and I think the tube is a bad idea.

Am allergic to septrin. Badly. I need pentamidine nebuliser. The 2locals don't have it.

Breathing is a bit tough and throat sore/hard to swallow. Must be that candida. Just popped another fluconazole.

I love our NHS but our waiting times in ER can be over 8 hours. ESP after a sat night.

I do realise I need my doc. I think on Monday they admit me. Horrible, painful things coming too quick and fast and with force. Cannot get back to sleep. Am freezing but sweating.

Trying not to panic.

I was born Catholic. Never been a religious guy. Funny how you pray when the shit hits the fan.

Thanks for your post. Trying to keep myself occupied so head doesn't bring on psychosis.

Oh fu**ing dear. That's another fine mess I've got myself into.

Offline J.R.E.

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #28 on: July 08, 2012, 02:42:33 am »
Listen Gary,...

Try not to play superman OK ?  If you think that you can't wait until tomorrow, to see your doctor, you may need to get yourself to an emergency room.

What your describing, brings back some pretty vivid memories for me.  Sounds a lot of what I was going through.

It was a Friday afternoon,  I was having the sweats, chills, and excruciating body and joint pain.  I think at that time, I was living on Tylenol.  I was coughing so bad, I could barely catch my breath, And any body movement that I attempted, felt as though a had a 200 pound weight attached to me.

Walking up the stairs, was brutal.  Long story short,  At that time I only had my primary care physician. I got into my car, and drove to his office.

He took one look at me,  and said " I need to get you in the hospital" He asked me if I could drive, I said "yes" , and I drove to the hospital that was about 10 minutes from where I lived.   The doctor made all the necessary calls to get me a room the minute I arrived at the hospital.

Well,  It ends up , that I had pneumonia, and a few other things going on.

The point of what I am saying here is this. Don't be stubborn, and don't try to brave this out.   If you can't wait to see your doctor tomorrow, "DON'T" hesitate, to get yourself to an emergency room.


If it was me, ( and knowing what I know now) I would get myself to the emergency room.  Can you call your doctors office now, to at least get an answering/ call service, to give you some advice? You need to be careful.


Keep us updated---Ray
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #29 on: July 08, 2012, 02:44:20 am »
I am not downplaying Gary's situation but hypothetically speaking if he were insulated like in a bubble for some time so he does not get sick, shouldn't the virus wipe itself out? Remember the medicine just inhibits the virus so no further replication occurs but I believe the body clears out viremia in the blood stream. So if the virus depletes all his available CD4 cells including the reservoirs since they are actively replicating, should not the virus disappear  from his immune system. I am trained in molecular biology by the way.

But anyhow good luck to your health Gary.

I don't know a lot, but your post set alarm bells off in me. Doesn't seem right, even with your medical knowledge.

Nice of you to post though.

Gary

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #30 on: July 08, 2012, 02:51:22 am »
JRE. What you described is EXACTLY how I feel.

Not trying to be superman. Feel superfu**ed. my two locals don't have HIV docs/clinics.

I can't drive ( had a seizure from encephalitis and crashed few months back)

I could just call ambulance coz they can treat pneumonia. Had it before. Feeling similar.

Thanks for your concern. Really am taking it on board. Thank god for iPad. Could no way get up to sit at a computer.

Offline J.R.E.

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  • Positive since 1985, joined forums 12/03
Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #31 on: July 08, 2012, 03:01:29 am »
JRE. What you described is EXACTLY how I feel.



I could just call ambulance coz they can treat pneumonia. Had it before. Feeling similar.




That sounds like a plan !,  If you need to call an ambulance go ahead and do that. You would be a hell of a lot better off getting immediate care, than possibly waiting until tomorrow.


Take care----Ray


Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline Common_ground

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #32 on: July 08, 2012, 03:05:01 am »
The ambulances here will only take you to one of 2 local hosps.

Both do not HIV docs or drugs.

My hosp is on the other side of London and I cannot afford a cab and I think the tube is a bad idea.

Am allergic to septrin. Badly. I need pentamidine nebuliser. The 2locals don't have it.

Breathing is a bit tough and throat sore/hard to swallow. Must be that candida. Just popped another fluconazole.

I love our NHS but our waiting times in ER can be over 8 hours. ESP after a sat night.

I do realise I need my doc. I think on Monday they admit me. Horrible, painful things coming too quick and fast and with force. Cannot get back to sleep. Am freezing but sweating.

Trying not to panic.

I was born Catholic. Never been a religious guy. Funny how you pray when the shit hits the fan.

Thanks for your post. Trying to keep myself occupied so head doesn't bring on psychosis.

Oh fu**ing dear. That's another fine mess I've got myself into.

You probably need to treat your cough, fever and other possible infections
before going on ARVs anyway, so they can surely help you at any of your local hospitals. So do yourself a favor and go to a hospital to get a head start. They can run checks and keep an eye on you until you stabilize. You dont want to pass out at home or get too weak to even be able to go there by yourself, save that misery for another rainy day.

2011 May - Neg.
2012 June CD4:205, 16% VL:2676 Start Truvada/Stocrin
2012 July  CD4:234, 18% VL:88
2012 Sep  CD4:238, 17% VL:UD
2013 Feb  CD4:257, 24% VL:UD -viramune/truvada
2013 May CD4:276, 26% VL:UD

2015 CD4: 240 , 28% VL:UD - Triumeq
2015 March CD4: 350 VL: UD

Offline tednlou2

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #33 on: July 08, 2012, 03:19:15 am »
Gary,

I wish there was some way we could help you with the cab, if you choose to go to the hospital.  I can understand being hesitant about using public transportation now.  If the cab company had a website where people could add money to a customer's account, I would help.  However, I don't think cab companies work that way.  Cabbies want their money in the car.

However, any ER would be able to examine you and whether you need treatment now for something like pneumonia.  I had bacterial pneumonia, but didn't recognize it.  I didn't know I was poz at the time.  I put off going to the doc, because I didn't have insurance at the time.  I got very ill and ended up in the hospital for over a week.  And, your situation is more precarious.  I don't want to add to your anxiety, but definitely get to the ER, if you feel something isn't right and you can't wait for your appt.  Any ER in a large city should be able to get a patient with HIV/AIDS treated, or transfer you to a hospital that can. 

Offline J.R.E.

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  • Positive since 1985, joined forums 12/03
Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #34 on: July 08, 2012, 03:20:33 am »
Gary,


Somehow, I  missed reading your reply # 27. Thanks for clarifying. I must have been having one of those fog moments, when I skipped over.

I think we were both typing out a message at the same time 



Ray
« Last Edit: July 08, 2012, 03:28:45 am by J.R.E. »
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #35 on: July 08, 2012, 04:40:23 am »
Gary,


Somehow, I  missed reading your reply # 27. Thanks for clarifying. I must have been having one of those fog moments, when I skipped over.

I think we were both typing out a message at the same time 



Ray

Mum gave me cash. Didn't want to worry her. Really feeling awful now. Back pain unreal. In taxi as I type. Thanks guys.

Gary x

Offline J.R.E.

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  • Positive since 1985, joined forums 12/03
Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #36 on: July 08, 2012, 05:15:57 am »
Mum gave me cash. Didn't want to worry her.
Gary x


That's Great, glad to hear you've taken action  !  Let the pro's check you over, and get you back into shape.


One day at a time----Ray


Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline britchick

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #37 on: July 08, 2012, 08:42:10 am »
Hi rigger82,

Im in the UK too.
Im glad that you got yourself over to the hospital and im sure that they will be taking good care of you now.

We hope  to hear how you  are when you have had a good rest and some meds.

Britchick X

Offline onemoretime

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #38 on: July 08, 2012, 08:46:02 am »
OMG buddy.....with your numbers i and your sick today..... ur dr appoint is in 23 hours....i wouldd get my ass in a ER immediatly if it was me... even if they don t have HIV DR they can call for advice... u need medical attencion.   just a thought..  MY CD4 dropped to 150 for the frist time after hcv treatment for a year.... I feel like crap... have weitht loss and muscle atriphy from being in bed so much so i know how you feel.. worried.. but you really should be IP
08/04 diag 490 cd4 vl 50,000
10/25/05 436 50,513 hvb 1.1 billion
12/13/05 truvada sustiva
02/16/06 742 und, hpb 63,000
04/27/06 740 und hpb 60,000
01/05/07 458 und hvb und
03/08   470 undetectable still on atripla. Non smoking (chantex)
08/08 cd4 550 undetectable hiv, Hep B UND. Atripla
06/09  cd4 444, vl undetectable testo 130
09/09/09 CD4 687 46% UND  Testo 213 started androgel
10/12/09 cd4 682 46% und testo 597
01/12/10 cd4 842 48% und testo 434
041010 cd4 693  53% testo 492
100410 cd4 568 48% testo 523
012711 cd4 523 hcv 56 testo 596
083011 cd4 280 Hcv/HIV und
042912 cd4 158 hcv /hiv und, was on hep c for 11 months. do have ssdi filed and getting LTD
061912 cd4 151, bactrum, hep c and hiv und
071712 cd4 287 52% HIV HCV und
112012 cd4 520

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #39 on: July 08, 2012, 10:46:00 am »
I got to hosp. The did bloods and other not nice stuff.

They admitted me immediately. Bloods came in about 2 hours. I have pneumonia and some other infections that crept in.

Dripping in sweat. Awful. They said if I'd waited, it would have been pcp or worse as they're still trying to find out what these other OIs are.

Thanks everyone for urging me to go hosp. I'm on infectious disease/AIDS ward. Pressurised room.

Thanks again.

One odd thing though; they keep talking about fluid around my heart and did ultrasound and want to do more detailed scan. Whole bod aches, not just lung so maybe I overlooked the heart pain.

Again, very grateful.

Gary x

Offline drewm

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #40 on: July 08, 2012, 10:52:32 am »
Gary, glad to hear you are getting medical care. It sounds like that is where you need to be. Please keep us posted as to your progress and hang in there!  ;)

Drew
Diagnosed in  May of 2010 with teh AIDS.

PCP Pneumonia . CD4 8 . VL 500,000

TRIUMEQ - VALTREX -  FLUOXETINE - FENOFIBRATE - PRAVASTATIN - CIALIS


Numbers consistent since 12/2010 - VL has remained undetectable and CD4 is anywhere from 275-325

Offline Ann

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    • Num is sum qui mentiar tibi?
Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #41 on: July 08, 2012, 11:03:03 am »
It's a relief to know you're being looked after properly. Thank you for keeping us posted - I've been wondering how you're doing all day. Hang in there! Fingers crossed here that they figure out what's going on and you recover quickly.

Sending love, light and positive healing energy your way.

((((((Rigger))))))
Condoms are a girl's best friend

Condom and Lube Info  

"...health will finally be seen not as a blessing to be wished for, but as a human right to be fought for." Kofi Annan

Nymphomaniac: a woman as obsessed with sex as an average man. Mignon McLaughlin

HIV is certainly character-building. It's made me see all of the shallow things we cling to, like ego and vanity. Of course, I'd rather have a few more T-cells and a little less character. Randy Shilts

Offline Rockin

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #42 on: July 08, 2012, 05:39:45 pm »
You'll get through this Gary. Im wishing you all the best.

Offline tednlou2

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #43 on: July 09, 2012, 02:21:03 am »
Mum gave me cash. Didn't want to worry her. Really feeling awful now. Back pain unreal. In taxi as I type. Thanks guys.

Gary x

I am so glad to hear you got to the hospital, instead of waiting.  When I had pneumonia, the back pain was the worst pain I've ever experienced, and I've had back surgery.  I just kept thinking I had pulled some muscles, but it was the fluid build-up.  I have a friend now in the hospital with pneumonia.  He also has fluid around his heart.  He is young.  I suspect he could have HIV/AIDS, from everything I know about him.  But, he's married to a woman, so the docs have not asked him about HIV.  He keeps saying they can't figure it out.  I told him perhaps they should test for HIV just to rule it out, and he got mad at me.  I fear he could be in the same situation, but they aren't treating him properly, because HIV isn't on their radar for him. 

Back to you--I'm glad HIV is back on your radar and you're now being treated.  I wish you a speedy recovery.  I hope you have someone to be there for you in the hospital.  Keep us updated.   

 

Offline spacebarsux

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #44 on: July 09, 2012, 02:25:06 am »
Glad to hear you're being looked after well in the hospital. Wish you a speedy recovery !

Hugs
Infected-  2005 or early 2006; Diagnosed- Jan 28th, 2011; Feb '11- CD4 754 @34%, VL- 39K; July '11- CD4 907@26%,  VL-81K; Feb '12- CD4 713 @31%, VL- 41K, Nov '12- CD4- 827@31%

Offline J.R.E.

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #45 on: July 09, 2012, 02:52:23 am »
Gary,

Glad to hear your getting the proper treatment.  I can almost bet you, that you will start feeling  better in about 24-36  hours.



Hang in there---Ray
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline Ann

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #46 on: July 09, 2012, 07:16:21 am »
How are you today Gary? You're in my thoughts.

((((((Gary))))))
Condoms are a girl's best friend

Condom and Lube Info  

"...health will finally be seen not as a blessing to be wished for, but as a human right to be fought for." Kofi Annan

Nymphomaniac: a woman as obsessed with sex as an average man. Mignon McLaughlin

HIV is certainly character-building. It's made me see all of the shallow things we cling to, like ego and vanity. Of course, I'd rather have a few more T-cells and a little less character. Randy Shilts

Offline britchick

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #47 on: July 09, 2012, 09:11:55 am »
Hi rigger82

Glad that you are getting good care.Thanks for updating us .
You are going to be feeling better soon.

Britchick x

Offline rigger82

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #48 on: July 09, 2012, 05:59:44 pm »
How are you today Gary? You're in my thoughts.

((((((Gary))))))

Hi Ann and everyone else that's helped me. I'm still in hosp. Always having bloods and an IV. they told me its pneumonia. I got that. Today, after an X-ray , they said the drugs hadnt made much difference. In fact I'm getting worse!!!

My whole body is really all-over painful. I still can't walk more than 300 m before a rest and still burning and sweating.

I have some infections they don't know what they are, so are going to grow them (?) in blood I give tomorrow.

The weird thing is; I'm wearing normal clothes. Not hosp gown. People keep asking me where the patient is, like im the visitor. Have to admit I look really good for some reason. Very healthy. The boyf even said, wow, what drugs are they puttin in you!!

The staff are great and when they know what these weird OIs are they can attack them. My usual HIV doc came to see me today and said we need to have a chat about meds.

As you know, I suffer psychosis, he knows too. He's seen it. I mentioned atripla, as it's one a day, and he fell about laughing "Gary, you're cute and clever, but nuts. If I gave you atripla you'd end up as mad as box of frogs. Never gonna happen"

So we'll see.

Off the topic of me being safe but not better (TB tests by the way).



He really goes out of his way for me but he should do that for everyone. I know it's not a valid issue to my being unwell, but I think he's helping me somehow feel better in my head even though my body is crushed.

He told me my VL is 3 million and totally disgraceful and very dangerous and said it could affect my eyes or nervous system and wants me on meds before Friday.

Wow. Typing all that on an iPhone was tiring. I am actually sweating now.

Thanks people. I never knew strangers' interest could be so helpful. Thanks all you guys.

Gary x x 😃
« Last Edit: July 10, 2012, 03:00:26 am by rigger82 »

Offline mecch

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Re: Had a break down. Now have ZERO CD4 and 3%
« Reply #49 on: July 09, 2012, 06:05:45 pm »
I'm glad you're being so well taken care of.  I hope they find all right medicine and keep pumping it into you!  Keep your spirit. Its remarkably strong in these posts, given the present circumstances.  So bravo to you you must be strong.
“From each, according to his ability; to each, according to his need” 1875 K Marx

 


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