Great topic, Hope...I was very lucky in that my fibro did not go full force until my youngest was 11. Big difference than infants...I have condsidered fostering, now some women who do, with fibro, and it works for them,,because you do what you have to..but, keep in mind it will take time and energy away from you existing kids, marriage, and household...lots to think about..I am glad you are thinking it through...whatever you decide will be the right answer for you...Cathi:)

I also was lucky that my fibro hit when my kids were grown up and out of the house. I do however have an 8 year old step-daughter that we have on weekends and a 1 year old grandson. I work a full-time job and by the end of the week I'm beat. I love spending time with the kids but I'm glad I don't have them full time. I would set down and make a list of the pros and cons. And really take a good look at it that way. This is a hard one. I wish you good luck in what ever you decide to do.

Hi. I can appreciate you wanting another child. I was so glad that I did because they play with eachother and entertain eachother. In fact, I have to cut this short because one of my kids is gone, and my little boy wants me to play a game with him. I would like to comment more at another time. I would like to say that I think it will be hard because of the FMS, and especially if your husband doesn't really want one. Also, if you have to work, I just don't know how you will do it. Taking care of both my kids and husband is tough enough. I'm on disablity which helps but we are still always financially strapped which makes it hard too. We do get by though. I'm so glad I have both my children, and they are my biggest reward, challenge, and accomplisment, not to mention blessing. You need to really talk with your husband about this. Do you have extended family that would help you?? I sure would hate to see you reach an age that you are unable to have a child, and regret not having another one. I don't know how old you are so I'm not sure if that's a valid concern or not. I know I had to jump on the bandwagon when I had my second. I was 35. They are 8 and 10 now, and it was much more difficult when they were younger that's for sure. As a family, we have all learned to cope with it quite well. So much for keeping it brief, sorry! Take care...LindaF

I think maybe u should also concider the pain u have from the FMS and the difficulty of pregnancy alone. I couldn't imagine being pregnant with this. I have 2 kids..12 and 7 and I know I couldn't handle another one. It's hard for me having to work, care for the kids and my husband and the house...sometimes I babysit my friends kid and that made me know for sure (she's one). this is only something u and ur husband can decide...maybe borrow a small kid for a while and see how it goes. God Bless U!

Thank you, everyone, for your thoughtful replies. Its given me a lot to think about. FYI, if we do it at all, it would be adoption through the foster care system b/c I seem unable to carry to term again.

We are taking it slow and thinking hard. If you have any other insights or experiences to share down the road, please do!!!