Expert: Suzan Jackson - 3/5/2008

Question
Susan,

I'm sorry to read about all the trials you have with your health and that of your children but I also know that because of this, you understand the unique challenges these diseases pose to anyone unfortunate enough to be afflicted with them.

Here is my question: I was diagnosed with both CFS and FM 16 years ago by Doctor Charles Lapp, in Charlotte, NC. I was living back east at the time but my husband & I have relocated to Idaho and I need to find a specialist close by...maybe in Washington state, or in Oregon??? Even though I really like Dr Lapp, my health is in a definite downturn and making a long trip to see a doctor is out of the question.

         Thanks for any wisdom you can give to me!

Answer
Dear Julie -

How wonderful that you were able to see Dr. Lapp for awhile.  I've heard he's excellent, and I've read many of his articles.  I'm sorry to hear that you're doing poorly.

I know of an assortment of good CFS doctors around the country, but unfortunately, the Northwest region is one area where I can't think of anyone.

I did a bit of searching for you and came up with a few resources that might be able to help you find a doctor close by.

Information on CFS in Idaho was a bit scarce, but the CDC lists a person who is available for support.  She might be able to help you:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/cfs/support/states/supp_id.htm

Here are support people/groups listed for Washington:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/cfs/support/states/supp_wa.htm

In Oregon, there's a state CFIDS association. Here's the contact information from the CDC's website:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/cfs/support/states/supp_or.htm

Here's the Oregon CFIDS Association's own website:

http://www.portlandcfids.org/

Finally, you can check the Co-Cure Good Doctor's List which includes one listing in Idaho:

http://www.co-cure.org/USA_ID.htm

I hope one of these resources might be of help to you.

You might also want to check out my blog:

www.livewithcfs.blogspot.com

I sometimes write about treatments that have helped me or my sons.  With this link, you can see only those blog entries related to treatments:

http://livewithcfs.blogspot.com/search/label/CFIDS%20treatments

I plan to add a new entry in the next couple of days about a new treatment that has helped me immensely - more than anything else in the past 6 years - so check back at the main blog site.  I just need to get a few more facts and resources before I write about it.

Good luck finding a good doctor and getting better!

Sue Jackson

www.livewithcfs.blogspot.com