I was born deaf-blind due to Congenital Rubella Syndrome, also known as CRS. (Yes--part of the big 1960's epidemic here in the USA). As a child, I was raised orally, mainstreamed in public schools. Did not learn ASL (sign language) until I was 17. An unkown virus or infection led me to become profoundly deaf--hearing nothing at all--even with hearing aids--in an "unheard of" time span of two weeks. Ever since, I have been part of the Deaf community, immersed in the Deaf culture. <br />It took me 22 years to finish college due to various challenges I had to overcome. I now have a B.A. degree in Political Science from the University of Central Oklahoma. This degree was chosen to prepare myself in what I thought was the best way to approach working in the field of Disability and Health Issues Advocacy, as well as a foundation for my writing career. <br /><br />Due to many, yes many late manifestations of the CRS, I am now unfortunately unable to work full-time. So I chose to establish my own business, The Cayer Package, which is a writing service. I write occassional grants, maintain a couple of blogs--one my own, and another I am contracted to write for them. I also provide additional customized writing services based on whatever the client needs--regardless whether it is simple scrapbook journaling, or business related. (I am not advertising here--just explaining what I do). <br /><br />My additional intrests/hobbies include, but is not limited to, reading books & magazines--I LOVE to read--have been a bookworm since I was about 5 years old,scrapbooking, collecting beanie babies, doing volunteer work for Heart Bandits American Eskimo Dog Rescue as their nationwide transport ("Railroad") Coordinator--you may have seen me and my recently deceased Hearing Dog, Blossie, on Animal Planet's Pet Story: Eskie Railroad". In the rescue world I am affectionately called "The Eskie Railroad Lady". Last but not least, I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, and researching various health issues on the net. My most recent addition to my "hobby arsenal" is working out at Bally's three times a week with my hubby. This choice was actually for my own health--nine years of being obese has done a major toll on my health. <br /><br />Most of all, I LOVE animals. Especially dogs. Most paticularly the American Eskimo Dog. Miss Blossie was a pure bred Eskie. I was blessed with 14 1/2 wonderful years with her. I also have little Meriko, a deaf-blind albino ("lethal white"--a dog that is merle to merle bred, born deaf, blind or both, thus creating an albino) who shares my birthday, my birth place (Houston), AND my eye color--both our left eyes are blue, and right eyes are hazel! God truly meant for me to have this dog.....<br /><br />Lastly, but not least, as I mentioned earlier, the CRS has led me to have quite a few late manifesations of the virus. So far, I have been given the following diagnoses: <br />1. Psoriasis<br />2. Psoriatic Arthritis<br />3. Fibromyalgia<br />4. Glaucoma<br />5. Endometrosis--most removed july 2003 via vaginal hysterectomy--left ovaries<br />6. IBS<br />7. GERD<br />8. Major Depression<br />9. Scoliosis/Kyphosis (started at age 13, is now a severe 90 degree curvature)<br />10. PVC--Premature Ventricular Contractions<br />11. Hypothyroidism<br />12. Edema/fluid retention (cause still being investigated)<br />13. Hypokalemia (low potassium cause being investigated as it all started prior to starting duiretics).<br />14. Osteoarthritis (almost forgot that one!)<br />15. Narcolepsy<br />16. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (mild)<br />17. Mild COPD/ Empheseyma (sp?)<br /><br />I am sure MORE are coming, which is a royal pain in the behind! The reason I suspect Celiac Disease is because my Psoriasis does tend to worsen when I eat alot of grains or gluten, or have too much yeast in my system. Will get to testing for this whenever the timing is right--too many other health issues to take care of first, LOL. I do try the best I can to keep things light. <br /><br />I look forward to learning lots here.
