Really need to find an excellent rheumatologist

[Joaniesmom]

I've been posting here for quite a while and have enjoyed every minute. Met some wonderful friends and some, well, very interesting folks. All to the good! Now I need to ask a favor.

I need to find a rheumatologist. I know some people associate a rheumatologist with aches and pains and swelling. Sure I have all that but I have additional symptoms which can threaten my life. I will require IV therapy.

I'm looking for the best rheumatologist available within a 50 mile radius of TV. I beg your understanding that I prefer to discuss this privately. If you can help, please contact my email or IM. I would be most grateful for any information you could provide.

[graciegirl]

I would try to find a doctor associated with Shands Hospital that is associated with the medical school at University of Florida in Gainesville.

[Trish Miller]

My husband is seeing Dr. John Gresh. He is located in Ocala and his number is 352-861-0100 and he is by far THE BEST RA specialist out there!! He is definately worth the drive and his staff is wonderful!! He is VERY caring and takes time with you. Highly recommended Dr.!!!!

[Joaniesmom]

Hi Trish,

I am so very grateful for your response. I just got a final diagnosis last Friday (Rheumatoid Vasculitis) after six months of awful pain, 11 doctors and uncounted tests and procedures. I only have less than a month and a half before our move to TV and I have barely begun on treatment. Seems like what I have is unusual (to say the least!) But I have come too far and gone through so much. I hate to have to start all over with some dufus. And, believe me, I have seen quite a few!

I will definitely give him a call tomorrow. Thank you so much for your help. If you haven't gone through this, you have no idea what pain can be. It eats away at your soul.

I do hope your husband is doing well. My idea of heaven will be to grab a couple of noodles and floating in the pools with no pain anywhere.

BTW we're on Forsyth, very close to Mulberry Recreation Center. Are you anywhere close?

Again, I am so grateful for your helpl!

Lois Mapes

[kb8tpw]

I was referred to Dr Kenneth Stark in Taveres by my oncologist, who is chief of staff at Leesburg hospital. Have been once only but I was very impressed and satisfied. In the process I found out that this speciality is very sparse in the area. Tele 352-343-7735 - 1613 Banning Beach Rd.

There is one (name escapes me) in the villages proper and he is not taking new patients, too busy.

[Trish Miller]

Hi Lois,

You are very welcome and best of luck to you :)
I'm in the Village of Pennecamp.

Take care,
Trish

[NotGolfer]

I sent you a private message!!!

[villager]

I agree with Gracie - Shands provides excellent care and since it is a teaching hospital is up on current care options. If I ever need anything major, that's the place for me! That being said, My rhumatologist is Dr. Bookbinder in Ocala. He has NO personality but that's not what I'm paying a doctor to have. He has excellent knowledge and I like the way he handles my case. He take more of a common sense approach for care. Good luck and I'm glad they finally figured out what was wrong! See you in a couple months, neighbor.