Hey Gerhardt,

This is good karma for your pursuit to have kids because I got a newsletter today that had an article about a study recently done regarding TNF blockers and Male fertility. Here is the link:

http://www.spondylitis.org/press/news/361.aspx

It sounds quite promising for you. Good luck to you and your wife. Kids are amazing. I had my three before my nightmare with AS started. Life is about having Joy and so you guys should totally go for it!!

As for your trip, my doc gave me a slow-release shot of steroids (120mg) and it lasted for 3 weeks (while I waited for enbrel). The doc explained why the shot was better than oral prednisone, something about the oral version makes spikes and drops in our good chemicals, the shot makes a big spike and a slow drop. And wow was it ever effective. I haven't felt that good in a couple of years. Of course it wears off eventually, but it sure felt good for 3 weeks to be normal!! I didn't even need pain med. Wow!

Take Care,
Donette