For The Second Year In A Row ......

The Fibro Frog was selected by Healthline.com as one of the best fibromyalgia blogs on the web for 2013!! I was honored last year to be included in their 21 best fibromyalgia blogs of 2012  ....and this year the bar was raised by only publishing the "16 Best Fibromyalgia Blogs Of 2013" instead of 21.  Also, most of the blogs that made the cut are authored by either Nationally known authors, published book authors, or both!  So for the few of us that doesn't fit into that catagory, it's a hugggeeee honor!  You can access the slideshow, by clicking the link above.  The email that Healthline sent me said that the blogs are not listed in any particular order within the slideshow.  That if someone is on slide 2 it doesn't mean that they thought it was the second best blog ...or if the blog is listed last, it doesn't mean that they think it's the "worst" of the 16.
For those of you that aren't familiar with Healthline, they started out in 1999, known as YourDoctor.com. The site was relaunched in 2005, as Healthline Networks. Healthline allows people to search and learn about health information on the web, and even has a symptom search and a provider search feature. It's used by publishers, advertisers, and health plans. Websites such as Yahoo Health use Healthline.com as their provider for members to use to search and learn about different conditions. As of February 2010, Healthline.com was the third most popular health site, falling behind WebMD and Everyday Health. They receive over 4.2 million monthly unique visitors, and have over 17 million pageviews per month!! Wow! Just think of the reach we're getting, to help bring awareness of Fibromyalgia to the public!! Last year, I sat in awe, trying to figure out how Healthline had even heard about and/or found The Fibro Frog, let alone that they'd included The Fibro Frog in their slideshow. This year, I still sit in awe, that The Fibro Frog would once again make the cut to be included. I'm not a Nationally known author. I've never published a book. I'm not someone famous. I'm just a person, ...a woman sitting at home at a small desk stuffed into the corner of her dining room, that's pissed off about being in pain every day of life, and has typed/backspaced/typed/backspaced/typed again about 14 or 15 times now already in this one post due to fibro fog not allowing her to get the words out of her head the way she wants. I'm just someone who is mad that a lot of health care workers, researchers, pharmaceutical companies, politicians, corporate big shots, and the general public aren't well enough educated on the real-life seriousness of Fibromyalgia. You have some doctors telling you it's all in your head (Oh, don't get me started on that rant tonight! -There's research and brain MRI's and lots of stuff that proves it isn't in our heads! You're a doctor, DO YOUR RESEARCH!!). You have private individuals that donate for private research that think it's all in our heads, or that it doesn't effect our quality of life enough to promote further research for a cure or a treatment plan. You have corporate big shots and bosses and unit managers that don't believe in it or care enough to help work with their employees to build accommodations within the workplace. You'd think that would be a top priority for corporate. It would help them retain employees and stop turn-over rates, and help them to get the most production out of their employees. That's mutually beneficial to both the company and the employee. I could certainly keep dragging this out, but I'm not telling most of you anything that you don't already know. That is who I am though. Just someone who's passionate about educating anyone and everyone that they possibly can, about the real life ramifications of living with Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Hoping for change. Those of you who have been around The Fibro Frog for awhile, know that my motto is all about education. Without education, people won't truly know. If they don't know, they certainly can't understand or relate. If they don't really understand or relate, then we'll never have change. If we don't have change, we won't have more research in the area. If we don't have research, then we'll never have a cure, or a concrete universal treatment plan that works. I may sit here in pain, ...real, debilitating pain, every day for the rest of my life. What I won't do though, is sit here in pain every day for the rest of my life without doing every single thing I possibly can to help create change. I won't stop hoping for everyone ok, let's be realistic here, most everyone, to understand, and for a cure to be found. I won't stop hoping, that when I tell someone I have Fibromyalgia, that won't be met with "Oh really? So-and-so has it and they do just fine". Yeah, some people are lucky. To some people with Fibromyalgia, it may be nothing more than a slight annoyance. To others though, it can be completely debilitating and life-altering as the way they knew it before Fibromyalgia. Just like with the flu. Some may get it bad, and others may have a lighter case of it. I want to thank every single one of my readers. Without you, I may have given up more than one time on writing this blog. Heck, I think I may have given up on my hope more than one time. Without all of you, I wouldn't even be considered for things like the slideshow, 16 Best Fibromyalgia Blogs of 2013. If you're new to The Fibro Frog, coming from the Healthline slideshow, I'd like to welcome you! To see what all I've overcome despite and because of Fibromyalgia, take a look back to the very beginning of this blog, and read it through. Also, we have a huge facebook fan page that's still growing every day, that I'd like to invite you all to. We're all like one family over there, lending support to one another. You'll find us at Facebook.com/TheFibroFrog

Gentle Butterfly Hugs,
Amy

RoosterFin Inc. Family Game Night Giveaway

Welcome to the RoosterFin Inc Family Game Night Giveaway!

 

Hosted by: Savory Savings

Sponsored by: RoosterFin Inc

Do you have a family game night tradition with your family?  Krista over at Savory Savings does and she recently discovered this great kid-friendly board game company, RoosterFin Inc that makes games that are not only fun, but educational, too!  The best part?  The kids won't even know they are learning while they play - so you can get some satisfaction over knowing they are getting something extra from the game!  Be sure to check in at Savory Savings for the full review on RoosterFIn Inc's newest game, Masheroo! And see what Krista and her family thought of this pattern making game!  After you do that, check out this short video showing some highlights of the Masheroo! game and why it might be a great fit for your family! My youngest daughter is 17 and just graduated from high school a couple weeks ago. Even at her age, we still have game night, but now we also include her friends! In fact, she's having one tomorrow night! It's so much fun to see a big group of older teenagers gathered around my big dining room table, playing board games and laughing over the silliest stuff. You always hear about the teens that are out getting in trouble. Game night brings back the innocence of childhood and provides me with hours of laughs and smiles, as it does them! They all readily welcome me sitting in and playing along with them! When I'm in a lot of pain and don't feel like going out anywhere, this brings the fun & entertainment to me!

RoosterFin Inc has a variety of games for varying age and skill levels, so head over there now to find the perfect game for your family to play on those rainy nights this summer!  Better yet, how would you like to win a RoosterFin Inc game for free?  One US winner, 18 or older can choose from PongCano, Shufflin' Feet, Masheroo!, Monkeys Up, or Color Slap from the RoosterFin Inc line up!  This giveaway will run from June 14, 2013 through June 28, 2013 at 8 PM CST.

Entry-Form

 

Savory Savings did not receive any compensation for this post.  Disclosure: I did receive the products for free and am sharing my opinion with you.  My opinion may differ from yours.  Savory Savings and YOUR BLOG HERE are not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.  This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook.  We hereby release Facebook of any liability.  Winner(s) will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours after the giveaway ends to respond before another winner is selected.  All entries will be verified. 

Enter The Man Cave Giveaway

Man Cave Giveaway Event

Organized by: Mom to Bed by 8

I'm not a man, and I even want to win this package!! What a GREAT giveaway this is! I wish you all the best of luck, and remember to share this so that your family and friends will have a chance to win too!

Prize Package Includes:

46" RCA LCD-HDTV

Experience a full-HD picture with crisp detailing and stereo sound on the terrific RCA 46LA45RQ LCD HDTV. It is an elegantly designed; wall-mountable LCD TV that meets energy star standards. This RCA LCD HDTV features true-to-life screen delivering brightness of 500cd/m2 that enables you to watch clear picture regardless the lighting condition of the room. The 46-inch LCD screen with 16:9 widescreen formats offers you clear and natural motion scenes, thereby making it ideal for watching sports and video games. This 1080P 60HZ HDTV has a brilliant contrast ratio that ensures detailed images with wide range of brightest to darkest colors. The HDMI inputs easily connect to HD sources thereby delivering high definition videos. Watch digital channels, including HDTV programs with the built-in ATSC digital/NTSC analog tuner. This RCA 46LA45RQ LCD HDTV can be tilted vertically and horizontally to 176 degree allowing you to watch the TV from different areas in your home.

• 16:9 LCD panel
• With 1920 x 1080 full-HD resolution
• Wide 176-degree vertical and 176-degree horizontal angles
• See a clear picture from anywhere in the room
• Built-in ATSC digital/NTSC analog tuner
• Watch digital channels, including HDTV programs where available
• High brightness of 500cd/m2 with 6.5ms. response time
• Place your full-HD TV anywhere
• 4,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio
• HDMI Inputs: 3
• Enjoy a superior HD experience with the HDMI one-cable solution
• Wall-mountable
• VESA standard
• 45.99" screen of the RCA 46" 1080p LCD HDTV is measured diagonally from corner to corner

54" Foosball Table

Square off with the 54 inch foosball table from MD Sports. This official competition-sized soccer table features a green, pitch-like playing surface, 15.8mm steel player rods with sleek robo players and a beaded scoring tabulator. The adjustable leg levelers make setup easier even on uneven floors. The MDF cabinet has a PVC laminate and wood-grain finish to give the table a strong presence in any game room. This 54" foosball table offers plenty of entertainment and competitive play. The table comes with a standard size foosball, weighted to give you a solid feel as you go face-to-face with the competition.

Kegorator

The Nostalgia Electrics KRS2100 Kegorator Beer Keg Fridge in Black dispenses beer easily and quickly to even the thirstiest crew. Swivel casters make it mobile enough to roll around the clubhouse, pool area or anywhere you want to get the party started. The included 2.5-pound CO2 bottle is good for about four 15-gallon kegs and the fridge features a semi-gloss black tap tower with spring loaded, top-mounted tapper. A chrome guard rail and drip tray finishes the look of the durable black counter top. Keep track of the amount of CO2 in the tank or adjust pressure with the included double meter regulator.

• Holds one full size 1/2 barrel keg, one 1/4 barrel pony size keg or two 5-gallon D system kegs
• Keg coupler fits D system valves and does not fit non-standard keg sizes
• Adjustable thermostat with interior temperature range of unit is 30-40 degrees F
• Includes empty 2.5-pound CO2 bottle, double meter regulator and drip tray
• Spring loaded beer tapper
• Approved for commercial and household use
• Four casters provide easy portability
• Black finish
• The Double Regulator works the CO2 Tank and measures PSI (pounds per square inch), as well as the volume of the CO2 gas in the Cylinder. Set Output Pressure Gauge between 8-12 PSI for a nice, frothy head.

Thank you to each reader who is taking the time to visit, read and entering to win this amazing summer fun prize package. Please take a moment to also visit our lovely co-hosts whom without them great things such as these would not be possible: Another Cent Saved, Java John Z's, Ultimate Coupon Club, The Penny Hoarder, Barbara's Beat, Coupon Queen of Texas, Maria's Space, A Medic's World, The Stuff of Success and Baby Costcutters.

One lucky winners will a 46" RCA LCD-HDTV, 54" Foosball Table & Kegorator!

Giveaway ends July 5th at 11:59pm, open US, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. The Fibro Frog is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact teri@mompoweredmedia.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

Man Cave Dreams Event

Organized by: Mom to Bed by 8

Prizes Include: 46" RCA LCD-HDTV, 54" Foosball Table & Kegorator

Event dates: 6/14 – 7/5

Bloggers Wanted

Sign Up Here

When In A Pain Flare ....

I like to find funny things to try to take my mind off of things for a bit.  Here's some funny Disney Memes!  Click HERE to check them out!

Then, you can check out the "Old Economy Steve" memes by clicking  HERE.

Calories & Portion Sizes

With trying to lose weight, then with the new diagnosis of Diabetes, portion sizes, calories, carb servings, etc. have become a new learning experience for me.  This slide show can help show you a bit!   CLICK HERE

Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Giveaway!

I own a Canon Rebel T3i and I absolutely love it! I've had it for almost two years now, and I still love it as much today as I did the first day I received it. This is an AWESOME giveaway that you won't want to miss!

Welcome to Greentoe's Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera Giveaway

Sponsored by Greentoe

Hosted by Gator Mommy Reviews

Co-hosted by:

Everything Mommyhood, Viva Veltoro, Got Giveaways, We Have It All, Sweet Inspirations Events, My Devotional Thoughts, Mama Making Changes, The Penny Hoarder, Romania and Missions, The Nurse Mommy, Gator's Kitchen

Would you like to name your own price on new cameras, TVs, appliances, baby products, and more?

Well then look no farther!

Greentoe provides a great new way to shop online. You just need to select your product and name your price. Greentoe will then check with their certified retailers to see if they will meet your price. The first retailer to agree gets the sale and ships your product.

There is no catch and no service fees. Your offer price even includes taxes and shipping. They also have a 14 day return policy. Greentoe just saves you time and money.

Head over to Gator Mommy Reviews to read her Greentoe Review.

Greentoe is generously giving away a Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm IS II Lens Kit!

One lucky winner will receive a Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera with Lens Kit!

This giveaway ends June 30, 2013 11:59pm

Open to US residents

Good luck!

Entry-Form

~This blog is not responsible for shipping prize to winner.~

Another Fibro Co-Conditon? ..Imagine That!

I shouldn't have been surprised.  I really shouldn't have.  It seems that every time I turn around, I find another disease that's linked to having Fibromyalgia.  After blood work in February, I was told that I was pre-diabetic.  To be honest, I didn't really think too much about it.  I kind of just shrugged and went on about my business.  I did cut down on sugar.  I started dieting April 25th.  I've dropped roughly 20 pounds in the past five weeks.  

I had blood work done again a couple of weeks ago.  I've now moved into the diabetic category.  My numbers aren't horrible, but they are over the threshold to where they're calling me diabetic.  To be honest, the number didn't really phase me.  The fact that it put me into the diabetic category didn't really phase me either.  For some reason, it didn't really sink in until I had my meeting with the dietitian a couple of days ago. When she told me my doctor office had called and wanted me to take a diabetes education class, and gave me a testing meter, and made me check my sugar in front of her, ....then gave me a couple 5-day menu samples, ....it all sunk in and started bothering me a bit.  

What does a type-A neurotic do when they find that they have a new disease and it's eating away at them?  They come home and play Dr. Google, of course.  They search, and research, and research some more until their brain goes into sensory overload.  Then, all it takes is a 17 year old child to pose the question "Mom?  So many other things are connected to fibromyalgia, is diabetes a co-condition of fibro too?" to kick off a new Google search researching if there's a correlation between fibromyalgia and type II diabetes.   

Again, I should not have been surprised when my research proved that there is a correlation to diabetes and fibromyalgia.  In fact, "diabetes and fibromyalgia occur together nearly four times more often then would be expected." (Fibromyalgia Pedia, 2011-2012)  A study in the journal Rheumatology International, in 2003, showed that fibromyalgia occurs in 15%-18% of patients with diabetes.  

I researched a little further, and found that the higher the blood sugar level, the more severe a person's fibromyalgia symptoms are.  Diabetes.UK.Co. has a section on Fibromyalgia, and says that they are linked conditions.  The conclusion of a study published by the NIH states: " Fibromyalgia is a common finding in patients with types 1 and 2 diabetes, and its prevalence could be related to control of the disease. As with other diabetes complications, FM might be prevented by improved control of blood glucose levels."  You can read this study HERE.

As you can imagine, I'm not excited about making all of the dietary changes involved in a diabetes diagnosis. I'm not excited about the other health risks and worries associated with having diabetes.  Just as I wasn't (and still am not) excited about everything that goes along with having fibromyalgia.  In general, I feel pretty pissed off about it all.  I'm a 42 year old woman, who should be around half her life span.  Yet I'm trapped in the body of a 70 or 80 year old.  How many new diagnoses will I have by the time I'm 50??  What kind of condition will my body be in by the time I'm 50?  I won't lie, thinking about this causes me great pain and anguish mentally.  I'm an only child with aged ailing parents, and I'm single.  I have four children, but they're grown now.  My youngest has her high school graduation ceremony tomorrow.  They're all moving on with their own lives.  I'm essentially on my own now, and will be for the rest of my life.  With all of these health issues, that scares me for many different reasons.  

Hope.  Oh how I hope for a cure to be found for fibromyalgia.  The thing is, the more reading I do, ...the more research I do, ....the more I look into grant and private sector research donation numbers, the more hope slowly slips away.  There just isn't enough money, for enough real research to happen, for a cure to be found soon.  That's why educating people about this illness is so very important.  If people doesn't understand what all it really entails ...and boy does it entail a lot, then people won't be motivated to demand the funds so desperately needed for research.  Of course, I shouldn't say that there won't be a cure found soon, because even with the menial research being done "anything's possible", as the saying says.  That's where hope comes into play again.