Hi Lynn,

There are many research papers on Beurgers, but as somebody who has lived with
the disease for fifty years I feel that I am somewhat of a specialist on the
subject. I was diagnosed with the disease when I was 23 and had been smoking
since I was 16. Little was known about the relationship between tobacco and
Beurgers until research started in earnest in the sixties and by the time I had
reached my late thirties the damage had been done. In fact there is no turning
back the clock and hope that the damage caused by tobacco can be reversed; it
can't.

I hope that I do not frighten you with the following, but if you have been
diagnosed with Beurgers disease you must never, repeat never smoke again. Due to
tobacco and the faulty genes that made me susceptible to Beurgers I have had
both legs amputated below the knee and suffered damage to both hands.

I haven't smoked for some 25 years and despite the false legs live life to the
full. The point is Lynn that you will recover, but if you do not want a life
that is filled with continuous pain, NEVER SMOKE AGAIN.

If you want any further advice please ask.

James


To: beurgersdisease@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2006 7:46 PM
Subject: [Beurgers Disease] Just diagnosed


I have tried to do research on this disease. My doctor is still in
the process of testing to rule out any other diseases, but is sure
that this is Beurger's. I have been on pain medication for one month
and it just dulls the pain. I have so many questions.... I am
terrified and can just cry all the time. My children have had to tie
my shoes, help me wash my hair.....Is there anyone in this group in
the Nashville TN area, or anyone that uses Sprint that I could talk
to, or even anyone that knows where I can go look for questions and
answers about this disease.
I am a 35 year old female who has smoked for almost 20 years. I have
just started taking Chantix to help me quit...
Thanks so much from someone who is scared to death....





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]