After a jaw injury I had vitek proplast-teflon implants placed in my face. They were defective, contaminated, and recalled by the FDA. There is documentation that this company knew these implants would cause devastation of catastrophic proportions. In some people it actually ate through their skull and became imbedded in their brain. Within 3 months the implants had eroded the bones in my face and gone through my bloodstream affecting my entire body causing an autoimmune response. The implants were removed after 5 years, but not before the toxins devastated my body. I have a lot of pain in my head, neck, back, and arms from the instability and inflamed nerves in my face [Trigeminal neuralgia ]. I have pain, inflammation, and erosions in various organs especially the digestive system and bladder. The biopsy of my bladder revealed that 3 layers of tissue had been eroded. My thyroid has been removed. I had a breast lumpectomy. I have also been diagnosed with having toxic encephalopathy, severe chemical sensitivity, Fibromyalgia, and CFS. Several doctors have suspected MS, but I have chosen not to get a muscle biopsy. Most people find it difficult to believe what I am dealing with since I usually have a smile on my face. Trust me it is far less painful to be joyful than negative, bitter, and focused on your pain. I choose to be thankful for what I have and not to be complaining about what I do not have or can not do. Yes, there are days I am sad and lonely, days when I am delirious from the pain, days I don’t have the strength to feed myself…let alone make it to the store if I am out of food.
Yet, with all this I choose to be joyful and content in the Lord. For…the joy of the Lord is my strength. Every day is a struggle, but I will continue to praise the Lord. In His presence there is joy. In His presence there is peace. In His presence there is freedom from pain. It’s a choice and even though I might be crying on the outside…in my soul there is joy. “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12
- Update -
I want to clarify that not all jaw implants have been recalled. Not only did the implants I had fail, but the company used industrial grade Teflon instead of medical grade which contained unknown contaminants. Even though not all jaw implants have been recalled, long term analysis has shown that any implants in the jaw are not an effective solution. The jaw is just too complex of a joint and the face has many complex nerves and functions. My injuries were extensive. This was not just a case of TMJ dysfunction, not to dismiss anyone with this painful condition.
The disk in my right joint was completely dislocated, my face was distorted and the right side of my face wasn't functioning. The pain was so severe they thought I had a brain aneurysm. I spent three years in physical therapy trying to get the disk to relocate. In the meantime, the stress of my right side not working caused the left disk to become completely mutilated. Not only was the surgery considered my only option it was mandatory as part of my Workman's comp settlement. It was recommended by my doctors and physical therapist who were specialist in TMJ disorders. The physical therapist sent me to the same surgeon his wife went to and assured me he was one of the best in the country.
I thought I was making an informed decision. It was before all the documentation came out about the implants. I was young, it's been almost 30 years now, and didn't understand the consequences of foreign body reactions. I also didn't understand, nor did my surgeon I hope, the consequences of putting 8 metal screws into the skull of a person with metal allergies. My surgeon who had performed thousands of these surgeries had never seen anything like what happened to me. My head swelled up like something out of a freak show and I immediately was in severe pain in my lungs, stomach, colon, and bladder...not to mention my joints and muscles. As mentioned before, within 3 months it had completely eroded the mandibular condyles in my face and my neck swelled from autoimmune thyroiditis. I looked like I had the mumps.
I didn't think about having a metal allergy before the surgery. Back then I just assumed doctors always had your best interests in mind. I knew jewelry burned and caused a rash. I never thought about it...I just never wore jewelry. I was also never told they would be putting 8 screws in my skull. I would have thought the surgeon would have noticed I didn't even wear a wedding ring. Years later I contacted a surgeon who was doing reconstructive surgery with titanium implants. The first thing he asked was do I react to metal. When I said yes, he informed me that not only could I not have reconstruction, but I never should have had the original implants, not that they were good for anyone.
Having a metal allergy wasn't the only preexisting condition that complicated my recovery. I had celiac disease, hypoglycemia, and multiple chemical sensitivities. so my body was already set up for a major reaction not only to the implants, but to all the chemicals and drugs I was exposed to. I ended up back in the hospital several times with dehydration because I couldn't eat, drink or keep anything down. I am still terrified of throwing up, because I have too many memories of not being able stop and ending up in the hospital. I am however; grateful I had a preexisting faith in the Lord and loving friends who hold me up in prayer.
You words are wise and the Lord is most definitely with you. I'm encouraged by your positive attitude and inspired by your story. Thanks for sharing! :)
God bless, I wish you well. I would not be too surprised that the FDA knew a along also that this was a dangerious product as they allow many on the market even at this time.
Brenda, I so admire you for your ability to praise God in your circumstances. However, I think he lead you to me or me to you for a reason. You need to get those toxins out of your body!! There is a doctor right in our own church who can help you get started. His name is Dr. Molski (sorry I don't know his first name). His phone number is 972-542-3300. There is also a doctor in Plano, Dr Rao, that does chelation therapy which draws toxic chemicals out of your body. I have heard first hand testimonials of Autistic children saying their first word after one of his treatments. His number is 972-964-7373.
Call these doctors and see if they can help you! If not, ask them for a referral or recommendation. If you get nowhere with this, let me know.
There is a clinic in Mexico my friend just came back from. She had Hepatitis C - the bad kind. Doctors gave her no hope. She is now on the road to full recovery!
I believe God has given us everything we need for life and godliness. He does not desire us to be sick. Most of the times I've prayed for healing, instead of a miracle, God shows me what I need to do to get well. It's harder, but maybe He is testing me to see if I will obey and be a good steward of my body and the resources He has given me.
I urge you to take action!
God bless you!
Golden-Thanks. Unfortunately, the FDA lets too many companies regulate themselves and don't step in until there are catastrophic damages and the lawsuits start coming in.
Amy-Thank you for your concern. Unfortunately, the Proplast and Teflon in my body are petroleum based plastics that can not be chelated. God is the only one who can remove these toxins from my body and restore the bones and tissues that have been eaten away. I have spoken to physicians, surgeons, nutritionist, and physical therapist from around the country. I have had years and years of physical therapy. I have been to see Dr. William J. Rea from Environmental Health Center in Dallas. I have also spoken with Dr. James Balch author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."
Dr. Balch informed me that you can not chelate petroleum based plastics and all I can do is take care of my body...which I do...this rest is up to God. I feel I have done all I can do through the medical community. I don't have enough funds to maintain my frugal lifestyle, let alone to be going to Mexico. I am glad God has shown you what you need to do. Each of us need to listen to what God is speaking to us to do for our own life. I am praying for a miracle, but until that happens...I choose to be joyful and content in the Lord. For…the joy of the Lord is my strength. Thank you again. God Bless You.
Bren, don't know if what you had is what was suggested to me.....but they suggested an artificial jaw implanted...after the dentists suggested this, I saw my md, he said no.....no way. I didn't have it done. I'm praying for you!
Thank You Mike, I am being sooo blessed by everyone here. Your joy in the Lord blesses me every time I read your blogs...even when I don't always leave a comment. With the brain damage it's hit and miss when the thoughts connect and I struggle with having words to say.
Cindy Lou, it sounds like it might have been the same thing. There were a lot of different types of devises. Mine was the worse. Not only did they use Teflon, but they used industrial grade Teflon, instead of medical grade and it was full of contaminates. I am glad you didn't get an implant. Thanks for the prayers.
Wow I am so sorry you had to go through all this, and how things like this happen...shakes head. People like you help others to SEE how putting your faith & trust in the Lord makes a world of differance. I know as I have health issues Ive been going through and I know without the Lord right here with me, I be so lost!
I truly hate to hear of a life of a good person being upset by surgery that may, or certainly should not have been done. I have several rods in my leg as well as pins, screws etc. All made with titanium. The FDA has known for a good long time that Teflon is a toxic material, in any form. There are horror stories of people keeping the heat on their Teflon pans and being close to exfixiated. I had reconstruction to my right eye in the early 80's but it is made with a carbon material. It is certainly a great testament to your love for our Lord. I'm sure he holds a special place in his heart for you. I believe the FDA itself should be investigated as they are payed a large amount of money from drug companies to examine their products. It is said that more people die each year from these drugs than have any disease. The doctors alone are thought of to be responsible for some 250,000 death because of wrong diagnoses and the drugs they prescribe. Vaccines are a good example. They contain toxins unheard of that are extremely dangerous. "Squalene" to mention one, mercury, and even MSG. They also know that the "sunblock" people use will cause them cancer in 20 years or more. In the mean time they continue to make billions. When it's "discovered' to be dangerous. They will use the old "whoops" we messed up. After millions of people have suffered greatly for it. I have a list of common drugs that are dangerous that a group of doctors send notice in their newsletters. I hope you check with a legal advisor to see if you can sue the doctor or the company that claimed this was safe to use. No, it may not make you better. But it will cut down the amount of those who suffer again for the greed of these people. This really steams me!!
Golden - Sorry to hear about all you have suffered with. Thank you for sharing your information. I was part of a class action suit. The company filed for bankruptcy and all I received was around $4,000. That didn't even cover the co-payment on all of my medical expenses. I am on Medicaid now so my medical expenses are covered.
Yes...this was all about greed. This company had documentation that they knew these implants would cause devastation of catastrophic proportions, so they set their company up that when the law suits came in all they had to do was file bankruptcy and walk away to start a new company.
First off, I'm sure that I was posting to a blog of yours titled: "Why do bad things happen to good people." But then I submitted it there was an error. Couldn't find that blog when I came back but I did find that this one had the exact (or close) phrase that I saw in that one...you wrote:
"Yet, with all this I choose to be joyful and content in the Lord. For…the joy of the Lord is my strength. Every day is a struggle, but I will continue to praise the Lord. In His presence there is joy. In His presence there is peace. In His presence there is freedom from pain. It’s a choice and even though I might be crying on the outside…in my soul there is joy. “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12"
I saved my response to that other blog and I'm going to share it with you here by way of encouragment! Keep setting your mind on the things above sister! :-)
Hi Bren!
An equally good question is: "Why do good things happen to bad people?" Why does God bring rain on the just and the unjust? Well I'm not going to answer that question...you know it.
First what's bad? What's good? Who determines what is ultimately good or ultimately bad? If someone’s answer is "We do" then I'd say that's a real problem! That is the result of eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The temptation is to make ourselves the standard.
All we need know is that God causes all things to work together for our good. The discussion is over at that point. "Father I don't understand...but I know...that you cause all things to work together for good for me whom you have called, whom you have set apart for your purpose! Father, I glory in my weaknesses that the power of your Son be made perfect in me! I thank you that by your Spirit you give life to all of my mortal flesh! Father, I don't feel like that is true, it doesn't look like that is true, but I turn from my doubts, fears, and reasoning and choose to trust in you."
He does not exist for us but we for Him. I can think of many very scriptural reasons for this particular circumstance and [sic'em Mike!] doubt is in the list and so is the glory of God! The point being that it does absolutely zero good to focus on the problem! It does zero good for us to allow people to get us focused on our self! If it's doubt then He is the author and perfecter of faith; if it is a lack of knowledge then He is our wisdom and understanding.
So there are things that we absolutely know: that God alone is good, that it is impossible for Him to lie, that as many as may be the promises of God they are yes in Christ. So that is where we set our minds and then the thanksgiving and praise flow from the midst of circumstances that are screaming that we shouldn't be doing that!16:22 The crowd joined in attacking them; and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. 16:23 And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely. 16:24Having received this charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 16:25But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 16:26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and every one's fetters were unfastened. Acts 16:22-26 RSV
So why did Paul and Silas do that? Was is to try and "get" God to do something? You know, what I call "the praise method." Were they praying: "God you told us to go to Philippe how could you let this happen? Don't we have enough faith? Are you punishing us? Is this your judgment? Is this for your glory? etc, etc." Or were they perhaps praying: "Living God you rule the nations, thank you so much for counting us worthy to suffer for the sake of your Holy Son Jesus..."
The bottom line is, we never get anywhere speculating about what we do not know...well, we do get somewhere...we get depressed and get a mouth full of water! What we do know about Paul and Silas is that their focus was completely on the things above or they would not be doing what they were doing!
So from my perspective, I know that Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil and sickness is a work of the devil; so that is a good place to start, and from there we begin to focus on the things that are eternal! Not the allergies, not the problems, but on the glory that is to be revealed, on the goodness of the Living God. As we do that we find that our world will be shaken.
Please do not think of this as "Craig's three steps to XYZ." I'm not talking about some method to be used to control God and/or our circumstances; I am talking about setting our minds on what is really real...that which is intransigent and eternal. We build up an eternal weight of glory...while we look not at the things that can be seen but at the things that cannot be seen!
When we are sitting in stocks with a bloody back, is that something we do because we feel like it or is it something that we do in response to something that we know in our heart? And as we begin to set our mind on that which we know in our heart...the the earth grows strangely dim and our feelings actually become feelings of joy because it is His joy that becomes our strength...at this point ANYTHING can happen; those eternal realities become more real to us than the problems!
The war is with words. The war is with thoughts. The war is first in our own mind. No one can renew our minds for us.
So that is what you are doing Bren, so don't stop! Just keep adding more details to the paragraphs talking about the unseen realities until the seen side of things looks gloriously like the precursor to a miracle. :-)
$4,000.00, that's criminal. Did you check with the local (State) Consumer Protection Agency? Gingerly in the Attorney Generals Office. I have words in my mind right now that I have not thought of for many years. PLEASE let me know if this helps!! These people should be in jail. God bless!!
Thank you Craig, I am not sure I understand everything you have said...but thanks.
Thank you Golden, but this case was closed a long time ago. Several news shows like 60 minutes reported on it. The CEO of this company is hiding out in Switzerland...he had several death threats...especially from family members of loved ones who committed suicide. This is the way the bankruptcy laws work in this country.
I received your e-mail. i believe this person must be brought to Justus. God will deal with him in due time. But, there are others who will continue to commit these kind of crimes if nothing is done. I think you know how I would handle this in my case. I am not suggesting you take this into your own hands. I know, I would. no one takes advantage of the blood of my blood.
Oh Bren what on earth could I possibly say to make you feel better? I just know that God does not put more on us than He alone knows we can take. My heart crys for you. Keep up the faith my dear sister!
Golden thank you for your concern, but I have forgiven as I have been forgiven. There are many injustices in the world, it would be even more unjust if everyone took the law into their own hands. I do appreciate your heartfelt concern.
Janie, it is comforting just to know so many people care and are praying. He never puts more on us than HE can bear as we give all of our burdens to him. Thank you for your comforting words.
Bren, once again your strength in Christ shines thru. You are amazing and a beautiful person. Thank you for being real here with us. I care about you and when you share like this it helps us to know how to pray for you. Thank you for your friendship and love.
Preston, thank you, that is very sweet. It is important that people know how to pray. It is also easier for me to just refer people to this blog when they ask why I am on disability. As you understand it is a complicated situation and difficult to continually explain. Thank you for your friendship and love in Christ.
to reduce the ability or strength of; to cripple ability
Noun
pl-ties
1. possession of the necessary skill or power to do something
2. great skill or competence:
From reading through your blogs, I see that God has used your physical disability to mentor to you a great spiritual ability. Thank you Lord for Bren's faith and obedience. You are her everything. Her beginning and her end, her alpha and her omega. Glory Hallelujah to you Lord! Bren, you are favored by our Abba Father. He has great plans for you and your abilities! What Satan meant for harm has been used by God for good. Your spiritual faith lifts up many and gives me strength to carry on with out complaint. Thank you for sharing! Love in Christ, Jewlz
Amen! God Bless You Jewlz...you brought me to tears! This is awesome. Thank you for my new definition in Christ! Thank you Lord for Jewlz’s faith, obedience, and gift of encouragement. Lift her up and give her strength to carry her through the day. You are her everything. Her beginning and her end, her alpha and her omega. Glory Hallelujah to you Lord! Love you in Christ.
Bren, your strength! Wow! Jesus. God bless you. I pray the pain will go away. Dear Father, wipe away Bren's pain. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. We bless your name Lord. Thank you for being there for Bren. Thank you so much Father.
Thank You Bren for sharing just what you have had to endure So glad that satan could not rob you of your joy BLess Bren Lord in a mighty and powerful way, reveal Yourself to her in her pain, strengthen her faith and may all she comes in contact see Christ in her Amen.
You've been through a lot. I'm glad it didn't rob you of your faith, but rather it seems to have strengthened it. It will also have given you an ability to empathize with the suffering of others which many don't have, and which God will often use to bring healing to the wounded. You may be interested to read my blog Undisabled. God bless you.
Thank you Ase. Yes, going through my trials has strengthened my faith. I read your blog Undisabled. It was very moving. You have used your undisability to minister to others. God bless you.
Just got finished reading this blog again and all of the comments. Don't you just love the support from these mychurch people! I am so glad you are my friend here, because I'm honored to know another one of God's wondeful children. I lift you up in prayer and ask God to give you good days and nights, to surround you with love and to make you well.
What an inspiration! You show what faith is really all about. God is certainly using you to Glorify Him. Love & hugs, dear sister in Christ. You are truly a blessing.
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