I hate always going to docs too. I feel like my life is in the docs office or my bed room. Vent all you need we all understand how you feel, it is hard to be so sick all of the time.

yes yes and yes!, i honestly feel like my life fits round my docs appointments, if its not the dermy its the rheumy, or my own doc (im sure he,s sick of looking at me)

Phoebe...your not alone...I put off dr.s appointments because I dread going to them so much. I think this is completely normal for us to feel. I also have bruises and cuts all over my hands and arms and always think the same as you. Either people think Im a "cutter" or being abused. Having this disease can affect us in so many more ways then just physically. It can be very emotionally draining at times. Vent away as we all understand. We all have bad days, weeks, months. As for the bruising you get. Try buying some arnica gel (completely natural) and put it on your bruises or your arms right after you have blood work. I have found that this stuff really helps with bruising.
xoxox

There is always long sleeves. Thank god it's winter time. I don't like going to the doctor either. But I always feel better after I go. Its better than letting things go to long I guess. I admit I put off the appts too. With Lupus it seems like we have a doctor for everything. I wish there was just one know all doctor we could find. Rhumy/Neuro/Nephrologist/Cardiologist/Endocrinologist would be perfect for the long haul, I wish. I figure my rhumy is also an internist so they can still order specific tests a little outside their range.

yes i do feel like this it feels like that is my job now to go to appointments not only for myself but for the kids and my husband

Amethystchic,
Yes, Blah for doctors appointment.
But look, this time of year is the worst to be sick, especially with all that needs to get done for the holidays. You may really enjoy getting out of the old routine and have a nice time with your hubby. I know it is hard to get out of a rut, especially if you don't feel well--But think of it this way, Your husband and you need to get out and do the social thing once in while, we all have to. Our life needs to go on, despite our illness. This is where the "superwoman" comes into the picture. We all have her in us....
Get yourself looking pretty, and have a good time--don't worry about what anyone else may think. If they know you've been sick, they will probably think, "oh but she doesn't look sick!" So thats a good thing....Try to have a good time, I hope you do! =)