I haven't stung this particular area before and should have put some Benadryl on it, but didn't. It swelled quite a bit and my legs still feel awfully sore. Sitting on the stings all day doesn't help either. I don't often use salves or creams nor do I use ice to numb the pain while being stung. No doubt it will be better by tomorrow though and will leave behind a stronger feeling in my legs. It seems as though, very often, when the stings hurt more - or at least are more sore after a particular session than usual - the following day is a good one.

Went up to Franklin Mt. today and picked up a new batch of bees. The old ones are still alive and buzzing but after 3 weeks just don't seem to have the same 'buzzz' about them. I think it must just be the end of their life cycle. I believe bees only have a life span of 5 weeks, or so I've been told, so perhaps they are just aging naturally and going forward gracefully. I will set them out beside the new jar and allow them to live out the remainder of their time. . . doing whatever it is that bees do in preperation of meeting their maker.

Spoke with John McCoy, the beekeeper, and had a great chat and made tentative plans
for him to come down to our home so as to check out the possibility of setting up some
sort of hive in our cellar. Very exciting.

It has been about a week since I've stopped taking all those herbs prescribed by Elly Katz, the Israeli healer-herbalist, and I'm beginning to feel the difference, especially on the days that I don't sting. Not as much 'zip' in my schlep . . . but perhaps this is all in my mind. People dealing with MS do tend to respond to placebo effects of certain treatments. i don't believe this is the case but I suppose I'll have a better feel for it after I get back into the full herbal regimen again . . . on Sept. 28th.

Still taking the other herbs prescribed by Elly Katz, 10mg's of Baclofen - 2x a day, 50mg's of magnesium - 2x a day, 2000 mg's vitamin C, a multi vitamin/mineral, 50mg's DHEA . . . and, I've just started 50mg's of a B-2 and B-6 complex as had been suggested by Pat Wagner. Why start now? I don't know. Came across some past correspondence I'd had with Pat and thought, 'I should give this a try too'. Also, still having reflexology sessions with Alice Waag and of course daily meditation and prayer.

Now, here's an e-mail from Murray who's been stinging for a while. . . with mixed results - but defintely more on the positive side. Murray writes:

". . . Well I have been doing the bee sting now for about 6 months and I have been having very good luck with it. I did not know what to expect with it when I started I did not know if it was a cure or what but i understand now it is not a cure it just something to slow down the MS. I am not happy with the way my bladder is still not so good but I am still trying to get better.. .Murray" <atts@quadro.net>

I immediately recalled an e-mail from John that I'd posted on Day 135. John had written:

". . . I also did not understand to move my sting sites around and used the same sites for
months. It turns out that according to my acupuncturist I was on the bladder meridian and
that part of the blight is gone with normal function restored. . . ." <judge20@fidnet.com>

So feel better soon, Murray. It's possible!

And here's another e-mail from Paula updating the on-going events with Joey in California. Paula writes:

". . . I took your email up to Joey tonight. He was very excited. He received the book on
the bee therapy today and his sister sat and read it to him. Tomorrow a.m. they are going
to watch a video on it and tomorrow afternoon she sees apitherapist. Things are falling
into place now. I am looking forward to actually hearing honey bees buzzing around in a
jar. The convalescent hospital. staff (nurses, cna's) think we're chasing rainbows. And
what a fine rainbow to chase! . . . I'll keep you informed. In Peace,
Paula & Joey & (Valerie, Joe's sister)" <polywaly@quiknet.com>

Man! What a fine lady Paula seems to be. And yes, what a fine rainbow to be chasing, indeed.
"Bluebirds fly over the rainbow . . . so why then, oh why, can't I?"

Day 146 - 02:40pm - September 26, 1997 EST
Stung 24x this morning on my sides and hands. Started halfway up the trunk of my body - directly below my armpits and stung 6x up the left and right sides. When we reached the armpit and Carol was about to sting outward towards my chest - I looked down at her and asked, "My heart? Is it too close to the heart?"

She immediately pulled the tweezers back away from my chest. . . the bee still buzzing at the tip, and asked, "Is that bad?" Neither one of us really knew.
"How about my hands?" I said, keeping my eye on the bee, knowing it could break free
of Carol's grasp at any second. "They've been bothering me."
So I lifted up my hands and layed them atop the desk and, nestling the tweezers with the buzzing bee against my skin, Carol expertly used her other hand to lightly press the bee's head & stinger down onto my flesh, coaxing it to sting and release its venom.
"Oww," I cringed, it felt like I was being burned with a match-head - the difference, of course, is that this pain will disappear in a few seconds.
"Boy, you're getting pretty good handling these bees," I tell her a few seconds later - after regaining my composure She is.
"Well, as long a they're not flying around, they're easy to handle," she answers.
We've come a long way in 146 days, I thought.

So, that's how we got to sting the hands . . . 8x on the back of each. . . 1x, above each pinky finger . . . 1x, above each pointer and finally . . . 2x on either side of both wrists. And as I easily stroke the keyboard this afternoon, I notice that both my hands are quite swollen from this morning's stings. Puffy too, and they ache. But they aren't feeling all cramped and tight like they could be. Here's what I mean.

I've been taking a clay workshop with Elizabeth Neilds, an extraordinary artist and crafts
person. Anyway, I've been putting my creativity to the test but more importantly, my hands have really been going 'through the wrin`ger.'

"Wedging" the clay - which means kneading and squeezing it so as to remove all the air in the mushy, hard & massy mixture - brings about some real changes in my hands. I can tell you this, I've certainly not used my hands like this in a very long time. But after working in the workshop/ barn with Elizabeth for a few hours - mushing and mashing that clay - my hands have been getting real stiff and tight . . . and for hours afterwards I've been having a difficult time opening my hands wide. It gets better as the evening progresses and by the following morning, it's all back to normal.
Be assured, this is not the first time that I've experienced these feelings in my hands . . . and I don't like it. It frightens me because my hands, as you might imagine, are my connection to the
world. But if the bee-venom does indeed stop the dis-ease from progressing - as I am hopeful it
will - then I am unconcerned . . .and thus, go forward faithfully. I'm doing what I can, with what there is.

Now, remember the e-mail from the person in Fla. who, on Day 125, had written," . . . help me find someone here in central Florida that can give me the therapy I am alone and have no one to help me i have MS" . . . "?

Well, she's written me a few times, explaining more clearly just what her problem was. . . That her husband was an over-the-roader and was rarely home. She is new to the Florida area, hasn't any friends and doesn't get out much. I was feeling like Dear Abbey . . . and an idea finally came to mind. I wrote back:

". . . Is there an MS Society or something where you are? Or a church or synagogue or a
temple of any kind? You know, God knows no boundaries when it comes to giving and
'helping thy brother'. Try it. Call them. As the Quaker's say, "When you pray, move your
feet." Do it. Please, let me know. . ." Barry

And soon afterwards, I received this e-mail in return. Charlene wrote:

". . . . I have located someone about 80 miles away A little far but she can help me with information in Florida . I belong to a great church down here. Never thought about going thru them. . . . Thanks again for all your help.Charlene " . . . CCadby@aol.com

Wow! A happy ending to a new beginning. All the best to you Charlene. I hope you can get something going soon. Because, is not time of the essence?

And finally, I couldn't resist this one. . . an e-mail from a student nurse in Ohio. Laurie writes::

". . . I am a student nurse in Ohio and I have a report to give on bee stings and multiple sclerosis. I have not found much information for my report. i would appreciate any help you might be able to give me. Thanks! . . . " Laurie Knueven
mflem@bright.net

So the research has begun. If you've got any information to share with Laurie, why not share it. Perhaps this is an indication of things to come.

Day 149 - 03:37pm - September 29, 1997 EST
Stung 20x this morning on the trunk of my body. Started half-way down the trunk along the sides and stung 6x down each side. Then. . . continuing straight downward, stung 2x on my waist and finally moving straight down, 2x on the tops of either thigh.

Overall the weekend was good and my hands remained loose and limber. Will have another 'lesson in clay' on Tuesday so we'll see how the hands hold-up. But they're feeling fine right now, and this is good.

And, I made my daughter happy this weekend.
Katrina (11), has been pushing for us to go out for pizza - like we used to do once every few weeks. And this wekend, we did.

Tony's Pizzeria is the only pizza store in a nearby village, plus - it has a really accessible ramp. When walking was easier for me, it was a place for us to frequent. The ramp zig-zags about 40 ft. up - leading right into the dining room. From there it's another 20 ft. or so to the tables. If you don't have MS you're thinking, big deal, right? But for a guy like me - it's a trip.
In the past year I have not had the energy - even while holding on for support - to have even attempted making that journey. But I made it this past Saturday evening - up an into the restaurant, sitting, eating (salad) and then - reversing the trip and making the journey back to the car.

No. I wasn't graceful and I was self-conscious and embarrassed - doing more shleping on the way back out of the pizzaria than I would have liked. But I did do it. I did have enough energy to get up out of the car and go the distance - round trip.

Now I know, for at least 6 months before stinging with bees, I didn't have the energy, at all . . .at any time, to have even attempted this. Even at the best of times when I might have been feeling less fatigued.
And this experience was more than that. My legs and ankles weren't as stiff as they can be. I wasn't limber by any stretch. . . but I wasn't so tight like when my legs are just useless appendages hanging off the trunk of my body.
I'm not doing any serious walking, at least not yet. And this was no great feat, believe me, I know. And I don't even know if I can do it again. But, can these bees be keeping the dis-ease from progressing? - and maybe even getting me just a tiny bit better? Well, it's day 149 - moving onto 5 months of stinging - and I know Carol thinks so.

So many people who read this journal and e-mail me are still sitting on the sidelines watching and wondering - 'should I, shouldn't I.' This is not an easy undertaking. and I'm the first to tell you, it's not for everyone.

Here's an e-mail from Larry whose mother is the one with MS. But Larry is an extremely supportive son, involved with his mother's dis-ease, doing whatever he can to help. Larry writes:

". . . My mother is still in the investigative phase. I keep encouraging her to do the
therapy because I don't want her to give up. It seems like every single person that has
started BVT has at least felt that it stopped the progression of their MS, even if they
didn't get much better. . . She has considered the study in Chicago, [injecting bee venom
with a syringe] but I think the cost is a factor and it seems that many people feel that live
bees are more effective. . . she told me the other day that if I could find a doctor that
would let her come in and get stung just to make sure she isn't allergic that she would
start the therapy. I am looking and hopefully if I find one she will still be willing. . . " Larry <laskew@bm.behome.com>

I suggested perhaps finding a nurse health practioner. Someone with medical credentials
that often times are more open to new and alternative therapies.
Like I said, it's not easy. But with a son like Larry, something good is bound to happen.

And here's something that has nothing to do with bees. It's from a cyber-friend with MS
that's having a really difficult time now. It can happen to any of us. She's having a
difficult time at the computer, so her messages are always short and to the point - but she
needs support and prayer. Here's her last e-mail. Noreen writes:

"KEEP SENDING POSITIVE ENERGY"
cruisecrazy@webtv.net (Noreen Fogeson)

And, you may want to check out her home page - where you'll find not only her picture, but interesting links too. . . especially if you're into traveling. Noreen's Home Page

God speed, Noreen.

Day 151 - 03:25pm - October 1, 1997 EST
Stung 22x this morning on my legs. Started up on my thighs . . .3x on the outer part of each thigh and then. . . 3x on the inner part of each thigh. . . then 1x on either side of each knee. . . then 3x on either side of each shin - left and right sides and finally 1x on either side of the ankle behind the ankle bone.

Had another 'clay class' with Elizabeth Neilds yesterday, the ceramic artist and crafts person. I'd done a study of 'tools for fire' - candlesticks, candelabra, menorah etc. and was quite surprised and pleased by the final results. The pieces had to be fired and glazed and it was a good feeling to see what my hands were able to create. Not that these pieces are any great pieces of art - but it demonstrates, to me, what I am able to do with my hands.

The appendages on my body are of concern to me, not only my legs but my arms and hands as well. I need them to be as function-able as possible. That's why I continue to use my legs and schlep as much as is possible. . . to continue to use them - always fighting the urge to sit - fighting the urge to not get up and walk - whatever small amount that I can.

And so too with my hands. I must use them. This is the only way to really know how well I am doing. Because if I'm not using what I have - what little God has spared me of the physical - then I'm not making the most of what I've got. I've long ago given up on considering anything having to do with this body of mine as, an 'inalienable right' - just because I'm human. No, I must earn the right to own it each and every day.

So, the 28th of September was this past Sunday and I anxiously went back to the herbal drops prescribed by Elly Katz, the Israeli healer-herbalist. . . As I had anticipated, the effects of getting back into the herbs were not immediately noticeable. Herbs, like just about every other holistic or natural treatment, is cumulative. I did sense however, that while off of the herbal regime I had a feeling of decreased energy - but perhaps this was only a placebo reaction as is often experienced with people dealing with MS. Placebo or not, taking the herbs again, feels right.

Now, here's some e-mail from Ann who I've been dialoguing with for some time now. Here's a woman with two nieces and a daughter - all dealing with MS. One of her nieces has just begun stinging and the bee venom therapy seems to be doing something positive for her. Ann writes:

". . . .My niece in California is on the bee sting regime and has passed thru her "flu" days and still continuing. Her husband is keeping their journal, and told her mother that he observed her tapping her toes to the music in the room, which she has not been able to do for a long time, and while her
handwriting is usually legible only early in the A.M., he was able to read it in the late afternoon a couple of weeks ago, which, tho' small, were signs of encouragement. . . .My other niece is watching all, and may be convinced to try. . . . My daughter, Praise the Lord, is still in remission. . . Ann"
roundrock@plix.com (Ann)

Wow, here's a family that certainly has their share to overcome. But with a mother & aunt like Ann, they're certainly ahead of the game. She's been involved with all of them right from the start - and continues with all the support she can muster. What a great person.

Day 153 - 03:40pm - October 3, 1997 EST
Stung 24x this morning on my upper back, shoulders, arms and hands. Started on the upper portion of my back approximately 2"' from the spine - stung 3x straight up - left & right sides - to the neck. Then . . .2x atop either shoulder. . . then, 2x on both arms. . . then, 1x on each elbow and 2x on both forearms. . . 1x atop each wrist and finally 1x on the back of each hand - in the center.
Yes, the stings really burned and hurt today, especially the ones up around the neck. For some reason stinging about my neck is never easy. Carol wanted to go up even higher . . . but I pleaded for mercy so we flared outward onto the shoulders and arms.

Went to temple for the Jewish New Years yesterday with my family and, per usual, had such an overwhelming desire to be able to get up and walk. . . but alas, am yet unable. Like I've said, not walking is something I'll never get used to. But seeing the other parents there, 'normal' parents, with their children, made me feel a bit sad - disappointed in myself - for not being all that I can be. . . for my wife and for my children.
But then I had to stop and reflect on what I did have. No, I wasn't able to walk like everyone else - not yet anyway. . . but I was there. And when I think about how much worse things can be. . . especially with this dis-ease - I just have to be grateful and give thanks to God for what I do have and for what I am able to do.
This, I believe, is true spiritual joy - when you feel you've got every right in the world to be angry and disgruntled. . . but instead forcing yourself to see what there is - not what there isn't. Not in a Pollyanna kind of way, but rather in a realistic one. Yeah, I can sit back and feel sorry for myself. I can curse the Gods - feeling miserable - and in turn have everyone else around me feeling much the same.. Or, as Jesus said, I can 'let my light shine' and in turn let a light shine on those around me too. Easy? Not in a longshot!
And yes, I do want more - but who doesn't? And if it wasn't health that I wanted more of, no doubt it would be more of something else. Because that's human nature for you.

I'm not giving up even though it's been 153 days and I'm still not doing any real walking to speak of. And when people say to me, "Bees? Man, that's so painful - why are you still doing that?" I have to say - to myself - because there's more promise in this bee venom therapy than in anything else I've ever tried before. It's the only therapy, that at the very least, offers the possibility of keeping the MS from progressing. And although I'm not walking much better yet, I am feeling so much stronger since starting on this therapy. I feel that I'm not getting worse - and that's nothing to sneeze at. And as lousy as my physical being may at times appear to be, God knows things can be worse.

Here's e-mail from Gaylord whose wife, Judy, hasn't yet embarked on the bee stinging venture. But . . . she's doing - honey. That's right. But hey, whatever works. Gaylord writes:

". . . Judy doesn't think she could stand to be stung yet, so she is still waiting to see your
results. Maybe soon she will get the nerve to get stung. . . She gets very fatigue when
she eats sugar and also chocolate. They also cause her severe headaches. Interesting
thing we have discovered is that Honey used to sweeten her cereal or bake our own
bread, used as the sugar substitute, does not seem to cause her any problems. I have
read that there are left and right sugars. This comes from some chemistry articles. And
Honey is a right sugar. Don't know if this is important, but thought you might find it
interesting. . . " Gaylord <longgayl@stewardnet.com>

I don't know much about chemistry but it would seem to me that honey is natural so. . .
it's got to be a better sweetener.
Any chemists out there?

And finally here's some e-mail from my cyber-buddy Fred on the Weeping Willow Ostrich
Ranch. He's a fighter and his simple metaphors are indeed an inspiration. Fred writes:

". . .Just got in from feeding all the birds, . . . You know we've been raising these guys
for a few years and I've made some observations. When one gets sick, you can tell before
to long if he's going to give up or be a fighter. If he gives up he doesn't last long ,but
if he's a fighter, more than likely he will survive.This is the same thing in life ,I really
believe this. I've seen it so often . . .Some times it's hard to practice what you preach but
it is really so true.You have to fight against all odds and don't ever give up. . . just had
that on my mind and wanted to tell you .. . "
fsoly@SSVEC.ORG (Fred Soly)
Weeping Willow Ostrich Ranch

Just love getting e-mail from Fred. Fred had been stinging for quite some time, stopped,
and just recently has gotten back to it. Why? Because after having stopped he has come
to believe that during the time he was stinging, the bees may very well have kept the dis-
ease in check. Don't know for sure - yet - but sure hope so.

Day 156 - 04:36pm - October 6, 1997 EST
Stung 16x this morning on my back. Started in the middle approx. 1" from the spine and
stung 6x down the left and right sides. Then we flared out onto the hips, stinging 2x on
either side. Then we ran out of bees. Will have to make a trip up to Franklin MT. today.

My wife, Carol, is a Girl Scout leader and this weekend she and my daughter, Katrina
(11) went off on a camping trip. That left me and my son, Gavin (13) home alone.
The weekend was great, going on-line, eating whatever we wanted (Gavin loves to cook
and destroy the kitchen) cleaning out the garage, watching TV, swimming and more. Had
lots of energy, and this is good. But as I think about it, the best part of the day came first
thing in the morning when we were getting dressed. . . and Gavin, suddenly let out,

"Pop, Wow, look at you. Look how you're putting on you pants!"
He was watching me stand as I struggled to pull and zipper them up. As anyone who's
got a difficult time with MS will tell you, putting on your pants is one the day's daily
challenges. Usually I have to be sitting on the bed and push, pull and stick each leg in
and through each pant leg. Then maybe I'll lay back on the bed so as to wriggle and
squirm them up and on and over my buttocks. But today, after sticking my legs through
the pant-legs, . . .I just stood up and pulled them up. I've been doing that a bit more often
lately and Gavin's not usually around when I get dressed so that he'd never noticed. But
he was on Saturday and he was quite excited about seeing me pull my pants up more
normally. I know it was not a big deal really but it made him feel good. . . about the bees
and all. An indication that I'm not getting any worse, I suppose. And this is good.

And I received a call from my sister, Rivka, in Israel. Elly Katz, the healer/herbalist had
a vision and a thought of me that appeared in her meditations.
She has a new herb for me to take.
"This will give you an increased amount of energy," she said. "He will see quite a big
difference, I am sure," she said Elly had told her.
So I called and ordered it from the nearest health food store . . .and anxiously await its
arrival.

And now,. here's e-mail from someone who's doing pretty darn good without the bees,
but she's one of those people I like to refer to as "brave and smart."
Rita writes :

". . . I was very excited to find your Bee Venom Therapy Journal. I just started
bee venom therapy last week. I have had MS for approx. 17 yrs. I am still
walking without a cane or use of wheelchair, but there are days that I
probably should be using assistance. I have a lot of the "fun" symptoms
that go with MS. But, like you, I do not intend to let MS stop me. . . Rita"
"Scott Whitaker" <pp01413@ppp.kcc.edu>

Indeed, you're taking matters in your own hands, Rita, and doing what you can with
what there is. I admire you for it.

And here's e-mail from someone who's doing what she can to help a friend. Christina
writes:

". . . My friend has just begun treatment and has shown slight improvement. He is
running out of a supply of bees and will have to stop treatment soon if no more bees can
be found.
I am hoping you can help us. We live in Ontario (Markham) and are trying to locate bee
keepers in our area that we can get bees for BVT.
Do you know of a place or how I can get information to locate bee keepers in our area??
Christina. . . "
Stewart Hazell <shazell@accent.net>

If there's anyone that can pass on any information to Christina. . . for her friend. . . it would be greatly appreciated.

Day 158 - 03:36pm - October 8, 1997 EST

Stung 22x this morning on my thighs, legs and shins. Starting at the tops of my thighs, stung 5x straight down the center of each thigh. . . then, 1x on the center of each knee-cap. . . then 5x down along the center of each shin - up to but not including my ankles. I wanted to sting more but Carol looked up at me and said, "enough '. Not gonna' argue about that one.

The bees were fresh and the stings are red and sore this afternoon. I'd felt very energetic this morning and did more walking with my walking stick than usual. . . which doesn't mean all that much, really.

For hours this morning, I was just beginning to settle into feeling the positive effects of last Monday's stings - and even this last session's stings. . . but now the last thing I feel like doing is getting up to walk. . . or shlep. And although my legs were stronger this morning immediately after the seesion, I maintain for now, that had I not been stinging as I have been for the past 158 days, I would not have had any of the ability I had had this morning. . .

Picked up a new batch of bees at John McCoys Honey Farm yesterday and as always, it's
a thrill to pick up a fresh and lively bunch. There's even an hypnotic sensation when just
listening to bees. . . putting your ear to the lid of the jar with its tiny air-holes and
hearing their 'drone' . . . it gives me a feeling of things happening - sending a meditative feeling of calmness in and through my consciousness. . . .
Woah! I think perhaps I've been getting stung a little too much, ey? Maybe that's why Carol said, "enough".
But, I've read that there is healing power in certain sounds and its just possible that the sound of bees 'buzzing' may just be on that wave length. Maybe.

Went to town today and picked up the new herbs prescribed by Elly Katz, the Israeli healer/herbalist. These herbs are far more pungent than any of the others and perhaps
indeed these herbs will be even more effective than what I've been taking so far. I have
faith because when it comes to MS, what doesn't work for one, could always turn into the
miracle cure for another.

Here's e-mail from Jane. Remember her? She'd been taking beta seron and had
considered doing bee venom therapy too. Well, seems like she's really getting into it - I
believe doing both. Jane writes:

". . . I wrote to my Dr. at Vanderbilt yesterday and ask him if he would keep me as
patient if I quit taking the shots [Beta Seron]. My hands,as yours, are numb and stiff. I
can really tell a difference in them getting worse when stressed or tired. I cannot really
feel the texture of things. I mean I can use them but not feeling the dog's fur or even my
own head of hair is so very frustrating. My Dr. said that this had returned for some after
even 3 years. Don't I wish. . .
Up until now have not had hive of bees. I am now feeding them at least one quart of
sugar water per day. Man they eat a lot . . .The hive is within walking distance easily,
down by our barn, . . They are so interesting to watch work, constantly in and out a
steady flow of bees. They get to know you and you can just sit and watch forever and
they never get mad, just flying all around you in swarms. Gives some people the creeps,
but as you and I know we actually love to hear and see them. . . Jane" <law@compu.net>

I suppose there is something hypnotic about bees, just like Jane says. I remember reading
somewhere that people who had pets - cats and dogs - have fewer heart attacks. Maybe
people with MS that have bees have less exacerbations. I know, I know, it hasn't been
proven. . . but whatever works, right?

I wish Jane all the luck in the world, with the bees and with her doctor.

Day 160 - 11:36am - October 10, 1997 EST
Stung 20x this morning on my shoulders, arms and hands. Starting atop my shoulders, stung 2x on each shoulder. . . then, moving downward - 3x on each bicep. . . then 1x on each elbow. . . then, 3x down along each forearm and finally, 1x on each hand between the thumb and pointer.

The stings really hurt today - as usual - and burned, but they alawys do - especially along this part of my body. There was also swelling and red welts which I'm sure will be gone by this evening. The bees were quite frisky and wild and we had to refrigerate them for a while before our session. Perhaps they were overly anxious to be set free this morning. . . and here's why.

I've been keeping my bees outside everyday in the jar, especially over the past week when the weather here in upstate NY has been uncommonly warm. But last evening when I had my son Gavin (13) go fetch the jar from under the old oak so as to bring them back inside for the night, what do I see? Another kind of very large, scarey looking, insect sitting at the bottom of the jar, atop the paper-towel, sucking away on the honey-soaked towel. Somehow it was something I'd never expected and really took me by surprise.

So I brought the jar back outside, unscrewed the cap hoping that by the morning at least, it would be gone. But it wasn't. Matter of fact, by the early morning there were about 10-15 dead honey
bees laying on the bottom of the jar.

Watching the action more carefully, I see the intruding insect, which I later find out is a 'White Faced Hornet', attack any honey bee that happens by it. The honey bee, when attacked, responds by trying to sting and, in turn, probably loses it's stinger and dies. I knew that I had to get the intruder out - fast.

As I continue to watch, I see that the hornet isn't going into the 'hive - the toilet paper-roll - it was just crawling across the paper-towel, merrily feasting away in it's newfound haven of everlasting honey. And then, I had a an idea.

I went back into the house, retrieved a new mayonaise jar, poured a layer of honey across the bottom, placed a layer of paper towels over the honey - basically setting up a new jar. Then, with a pair of tweezers, I picked the toilet paper-roll out from the old jar and placed it into the new. The hornet stayed in the old jar along with a few unfortunate honey bees that hadn't been in the toilet-paper roll during the rescue operation. But I didn't want to let the hornet out so I quickly screwed the cap back on leaving the straglers behind.

So, I've lost a bunch of bees but still have enough for a few more sessions. But wow, who would have expected that? I tell you, I'll have to check out the jar more carefully before stinging from now on - that's for sure. Wouldn't want Carol stnging me with a hornet!

Still taking the herbs prescribed by Elly Katz, 10mg's of Baclofen - 2x a day, 50mg's of magnesium - 2x a day, 2000 mg's vitamin C, a multi vitamin/mineral, 50mg's DHEA . . . and, 50mg's of a B-2 and B-6 complex, reflexology sessions with Alice Waag and of course daily meditation and prayer.

Now, here's e-mail from Jim, whose wife is stinging her sister. Remember, they are part of a group of individuals that meet three times a week to help one another sting. Jim writes:

". . . Jeanne Rae took a two hour ride to Wellington to receive a number of stings
in her temples and in the skull. She has a problem with shaking. She has
difficulty walking and it is hard to understand her speech some times. But we
are praying that the stings will kick in . She is up to between 25 - 30
stings , 3 times a week and I beleive she told me that she has received her
one thousanth sting. My wife is taking a couple of hours vacation time once
or twice a week to take her to her therapy and she says that it is an
"incredible" experience to witness and take part in. . . . "Jim Tenucci@aol.com

Jim and his wife are incredibly supportive and doing what they can with what there is. I wish them all success and speedy results from the bee venom therapy. From what I can tell, Jeanne Rae is not getting any worse and this is good. Bee venom is cumulative so let's hope things kick in soon and there's some real improvement.

Finally, I'll be doing some upgrading of my computer equipment on Monday and don't
know if this will hold up on my journal postings. Hope not. But keep checking on me.
I'll never be far away.

Day 163 11:36am - October 13, 1997, EST

Stung 22x this morning along my back. Started at the top approx 3" from the spine and stung 11x down each side and onto the top of my buttocks.

Just a few bees remaining from the hornet massacre of last week. It seems as if many of the bees just left the hive - toilet paper roll - on Friday and never returned. Must make another trip to Franklin Mt. for more bees. I am surely fortunate to have John McCoy as a friend and bee keeper. Just read what Sharon, new to the stinging procedure, writes regarding her attempts to secure bees. Sharon writes:

". . . Well good news....I found a girl who lives 5 blocks from me and started me with the bvt YES!!!! . . . she is wonderful! . . . Our only problem is a very independent beekeeper, I was able to have 2 bee sting treatments......then my bees died. Have been waiting since Tues to hear from him, but he hasn't been available. I was able to find another today, who seems really excited about this. He wante to know what we were paying, I told him $10per 100, he was thinking more like $50 per 100, but said we would start at $10 & see how it goes. I am supposed to get them tomorrow . . . Will be starting over. . . "Sharon BRzzz@aol.com

Have had many more sessions with Alice Waag, the reflexologist, treatments recommended by Elly Katz the Israeli, healer-herbalist. Remember that session when I'd experienced tremendous fatigue - sitting in that overstuffed chair in her very warm and stuffy house?
I'd asked Alice for some kind of change in the actual place - her livingroom - in which
she administers her massage. . . and she has responded fantastically. She's really terrific -
and our sessions have been really pleasant.
Alice will meet me outside of her house. It's in the country - remote. There she is, moving about so sprightly for an 83 year old. If the days are nice - which they have been - we'll sit down outside, overlooking her pond. There's a nice sturdy, lawn chair that I sit in - it's easy for me to get down and up in. Perfect.
Carolyn, her 56 year old daughter brings out a basin of warm water for me to soak my feet. That's to make my feet soft and easier to work on.
The setting is exquisite, the temperature has been much warmer than usual for this time of year in upstate NY. I'm kind of enjoying this 'global warming'.
As she works on my feet she chats freely - constantly reminding me of the importance of seeing myself walking.' "Very important. You must see yourself walk." She's so optimistic and encouraging - convinced that I will walk, better than I do now, again - soon.

Well, my feet are certainly looking better then they have been in a long time. They aren't as spongy and swollen looking as they used to be before doing these reflexology treatments. And the color is now a normal flesh color, not an ice-blue look. And, they don't seem to be as cold as often anymore either the way they always used to be. If nothing else, Alice has put a bit more circulation in them and this is good.
"They look like normal feet now," Alice says to me as I raise up out of the chair and walk to the car , using my walking stick and Carol's shoulder for support. "They really do."

It's important to keep those legs in as good condition as poossible. I must be prepared to
walk if I am to ever really walk again.

Now, here's e-mail from some one who's doing bees. . . and then some. But he or she is doing what they can. . . . He - or she - writes:

". . . I started stinging where [I] had no feeling. Now i have feeling everywhere. Every
day I sting on the side where inflamation occurs.It takes away all infflamation and sting
where numbness returns.I sting about 10xs mon.,wed.,fri. . .I also smoke majauna
for my condition,MS. . . . I dont tell people that unless they have ms. Try it if you are
open minded enough to try something that really works . . . Its a pain but worth it,even
my family and friends are very supportive.. . . " Southern Calif. San Diego

Well, they're doing what they can with what there is but better than that, they're getting
great support from family and friends. That's the best.

And finally, the folks from Compaq for the upgrade were supposed to come today - but aren't.Perhaps today, tomorrow or the next. . . you know how it goes.. They'll be taking my computers apart soon enough. . . I'm sure.

Day 165 10:26am - October 15, 1997, EST

Stung 20x this morning on my thighs and knees. Started high up on the inside of the thigh. . . . stung 8x on either side of each thigh and then 2x on the left and right side of each kneecap.
Was very stiff and tight all day yesterday - my legs and ankles. Perhaps this was because on Monday, I hadn't stung down onto my buttocks far enough. . . down where I get a real reaction - that levitation - from the stings on my legs.

So today's session we concentrated more on the thighs. My father and mother-in-law are visiting from Tenn. so Carol and I did our session in the bedroom rather than at our usual place by the computer.
So I lay back on the bed and practically every sting had my legs levitating upwards.
The bedroom has more"stuff" in it and with the new and lively batch of bees what I had feared most happened. One escaped Carols tweezers and has settled itself somewhere - not on one of the windows, which is odd because they always head for the window. But not this time. My father-in-law says he is highly allergic so I haven't told him that there is one MIA. So we shut the doors to the bedroom and I suppose we'll get to it soon enough. Hopefully 'it' won't get to him, but I couldn't just sit in the bedroom all day waiting for the bee to show herself. I'll keep checking on it periodically.

My father and mother in-law are here and John and Joan are both very supportive - so I am not at all feeling uncomfortable about stinging.

Day 165 03:40pm - October 17, 1997, EST

Stung 20x this morning on my neck, shoulders. arms and hand and temple. Started on my collarbone. . . stung 1x on either side left and right, then 2x on the neck above it. . . then 2x atop each shoulder. . . then 1x on the palm of my left hand. . . then 1x on my left temple - on my hairline. . . then 2x on each bicep...then 2x on each forearm and finally 1x on each wrist.

It was a difficult time today, hurt as much if not more than any other time in the past 167 days. The bees were frisky, wild and more difficult to control than ever. That's how I got stung on my palm and temple. Over and over the bees escaped Carol's tweezers and twice they settled into her hair. But this time I came to the rescue. Both times that they settled onnthe tips of Carol's hair, I reached in with my hand and pulled them out. The first time I grabbed it in my palm. . . and it stung.That wasn't so bad. But the second time, after grabbing it with my hand, I immediately released it from my grasp - not wanting another sting in my palm- so instead the bee flew into my hair and got stuck there. And when I tried to get her out. . . she stung, right there on the hairline. Ooo!

Man, it's a weird sound when it's stuck in your hair even after the sting. Carol finally got it out with a brush but my head feels like I've had a nail hammered into it. It hurts and my face is red and tight. I'm sure it'll be O.K. but it was not pleasant and does not feel good.

Monday's missing bee never did materialize.

Yesterday I was still feeling very stiff in my legs and ankles. My walking is not improving yet, but the rest of me is still not getting any worse. This is good although I've not given up on being able to do better with the walking. Perhaps increase the number of stings per session, or maybe concentrate more stinging on my legs. Will give it more thought.

Now, here's e-mail from someone who's just starting out stinging. . . and is very excited about it and with good reason Mary J writes:

" . . .! Started read\ing your journal with great interest as I am being stung by our friend Pat Wagner. I am going into week 3 & have noticed minor improvement. (i.e. my left leg now can walk heel to to instead of on ball of foot.) Not looking for miracles here, but Pat is a wonderful person & I have a "gut" feel that this is going to do it for me.
MARY J <CDLG64A@prodigy.com>

Nothing like being stung by the 'mistress of sting'. How fortunate to be in a position to gain and learn from someone like Pat Wagner - a woman with years and years of experience. But that's Pat for you. She opens herself up to anyone looking for help. All the best, Mary J.You're in good hands.

And here's another e-mail from Sharon - the lady that was having a difficult time securing bees last week. I'd written her back with some ideas and had asked her about the friend she'd found that lived only blocks away and was helping her to sting . Her friend had MS too and has been stinging for some time already . . . with some miraculous results. Sharon writes:

". . . My friend, Denise... She was bedfast and crawling and alone
in 1/97, except for 5 yr daughter to help, she was in such bad shape. She
said they would have starved, but daughter knew how to make pancakes, so
thats what they ate. She stings everyday, 20 x's now. I couldn't believe
when she walked into my house, no assistance and carrying large purse. I can
only imagine and hope :))))).I use a walker and sometimes can't lift feet so
husband goes behind me and lifts my feet from ankles, when Denise & daughter
were here 1st time I needed to go to restroom, couldn't lift feet so Bill
helped. In a childs innocence her daughter said "Mommy!! I remember when you
were like that" It gsve me such hope, which I have been in desperate need
of. I use wheelchair when I have distance to go, but I irritate everyone
because I won't use it more, but feel you understand when I read of your
outing for pizza, I CAN'T QUIT USING MY LEGS OR I WILL LOOSE THIS
BATTLE!!!!Hope you are well today and have to check your
journal....... I did get bee's on Sun. they were healthy & HOT, can't
wait to sting tonight. I hear the sweet sound of their humming now, hope
these last better, but is encouraging to know it just takes time to learn to
care for them.

Have wonderful day :))))
Sharon BRzzz.@aol.com
."

I didn't edit this letter down because of the enthusiasm it exuded. And what a great story about Denise! Well, Sharon's got the stuff that makes for miracles. I love it. Bless you, Sharon. . . and Denise. And, I'm back on-line - still stinging. Day 167. I'm just about coming to the end of my 6 month trial period.

Day 170 05:55pm - October 20, 1997, EST

Stung 20x this morning on my back and buttocks. Started 3/4 of the way down my back and stung 5x on either side. . . then flared out slightly and stung 5x more on each cheek, moving outward after each sting.

Love stinging this area of my body for two reasons. First, it hurts less than on any other place - perhaps because psychologically receiving a 'shot' on the rear-end seems more civil. Secondly, I feel more strength in my legs after these sessions. Like today. After Carol pulled out the stingers, I was not only able to stand up without any support, but had the inclination to do so as well.

Time marches forward and the 6 month 'trial' period will be coming to an end in a few weeks. And at this point there's no question that I will continue on this stinging regimen for a number of reasons.

Firstly, as John had written to me, I believe on day 125. . . and I'm paraphrasing now . . . "It's taken you years and years to get yourself into this condition, wouldn't you think it would take you more than 6 months to rectify it?" I haven't heard from John since, and I'd love to - but that simple statement of his reverberates in my consciousness over and over again. He's right, you know, six months of stings just may not be enough time for these bees to successfully do their thing.

And secondly, I have really enjoyed not prescribing to lots of heavy-duty medications. Yeah, I know that shooting up with some steroids would kick me right up there again, making me feel better than ever. . . but I also know that it doesn't last very long - and of course all those side affects.

No. I'll hold off on those for a while longer. For me, the jury is still out regarding the true effectiveness of bee venom. I may not have gotten up and walked the way I had hoped I would 6 months ago. . . not yet anyway - but I still may. There are times that I feel stronger than at other times and I do feel that the disease has not progressed any. I can't really prove that, but I feel that way. In the past, this time of year, the fall, has always been a time of heavy exacerbation for me. But this year, so far anyway, my condition has remained consistent. And in this game, consistency is what you're after when your condition is stable.

I will be reflecting on this and what my options are in regard to the continuation of this therapy over the next few weeks. There is nothing proven when it comes to bee venom so there are perhaps alternative ways of how and when to sting. But suffice it to say that my intention is to pursue this therapy well into the winter months. . . . in one form or another.

Now here's some e-mail from someone who is starting bee stings. . . again. They write:

". . . Just restarted bee stings after not doing them for about 3 years. I only did about 75 stings then and noticed an improvement in my wrist. But when I ran out of bees I didn't pursue the stinging. I believe Donna was one of the people who sent me info over Prodigy when I first started. . . A person I met at a support group set up a BS [bee sting] party at her house and about 6 of us with MS are stinging. I'm in the 2nd week and doing about 8n stings a session. All so far on the back. I enjoy reading about your progress and encouragement. Please continue letting us know how it is going. . . . " paulineb@dnvr.uswest.net

Well,from tupelware to bee stings but it sounds like a pretty cool idea to me. It certainly is a fantastic way to support and help one another to sting. . . and to keep at it. Support is so critical - in MS and certainly in stinging with live bees.Please guys, keep us posted as to how it goes.

And the person in the above e-mail mentions Donna Chandler. Again, can't say enough in regard to her selflessness. With all of her own problems-and you know she's got her own 'row to hoe', she is a constant supporter of many, many others. Here, for example, is an e-mail - one of many - she dashed off to me last week. Donna writes:

". . . I see a new Barry after the almost end of the 6 months. Think of it, I am over 9,000 stings still going strong and doing my thing .. . . After 4 1/2 years. . . with God's help and love, I continue to stay just the way I am. . . . helping other people find out about the wonders of BVT, and holding the MS progression at a stand still. . . "

Then she fills me in on some of the people she works with. Donna continues:

". . . I am working with a 9 year old boy, dx. [diagnosed] about 5 months ago. Already using a cane and no bladder and bowel control. . . We have a group in his state that is working with him for the past 6 weeks and I am proud and also very emotional to say, Eric is. . . walking around the house without the cane and has regained control of his bodily functions. He does use the cane outside for support, but this has me so hopeful . . that with our love and help, [Eric[ will lead as normal of a life as possible. . . This little guy's wish is to ride a bike. How can I even think of feeling sorry for myself? How dare I even miss one thing I can't do anymore? I am so proud that somehow God brought this little boy into my life. Not only him, but all of you. I do love and care for each person that has contacted me. My blessings and prayers are with all of you. . . " Donna don1948@halifax.com

Gets it all in perspective, doesn't it? I've got a lot of admiration for that little 9 year old. Man! And what can you say about Donna? My blessings and prayers go out to her.

Day 172 - 04:04pm - October 22, 1997 EST

Stung 20x this morning on my legs and feet. Started at my knees and stung 2x just above, and 2x just below, the sides of each kneecap. Then, moving onto the calves, stung 2x on the left & right side of each calve, then. . . 2x on each ankle and finally, 2x on the top of each foot,

Bees are going into their second week so they aren't as frisky as they once were. This means Carol is able to reach in and snag them a lot easier. But she's still got to be careful. Because when they do escape the jar or her tweezers, and they always do, they tend to metamorphosise into their normal wild selves.

This morning, one zipped out from the jar and flew up her sleeve. That's right. This was a new one for us. We heard the buzzing, but at first couldn't figure out where it was coming from. When we did, boy did Carol jump. Fortunately, the bee didn't sting her as she gingerly peeled off her blouse, pulling down on her sleeve. Once unclothed, she was feeling even more vulnerable and she hurried out of the room. I was then able to easily find and release the bee from the sleeve by turning the garment inside out. It flew to the window where Carol was easily able to retrieve it when she came back into the room.

Another bee escaped after that one, and that one is still missing. I'm keeping my ear out for her, but who knows, there was one last week that had also disappeared and has never materialized. I suppose they just die of natural causes after a while.

Had a flu shot yesterday at Dr. Jim's and wasn't feeling all that energetic for the remainder of the day. I don't know if . . .hmm, just noticed that missing bee on the window behind the computer. . . .

Carol says, leave it alone for now, but. . . I think I'll reach over with the tweezers and return it to the jar. That's where she wants to be anyway. They like being clustered together in that toilet-paper roll.. . .

. . . Okay, mission accomplished.

Anyway, felt tired yesteerday but perhaps this was a slight reaction from the flu shot. I'm feeling pretty good after this mornings session though. There's always that feeling of strength in the legs after getting stung - along with the soreness. But it's worth it. Because had I not stung this morning, my legs would probably be feeling numb and asleep. Probably real cold as well. But not now. At this moment they're buzzing and alive and I'm able to stand easily and 'shlep' into the kitchen, for example. This is good.

Here's some e-mail from Anne, who has been stinging for quite some time already. She tells of how she'd first gotten into it with Charles Mraz, the father of bee venom therapy, plus a few other things she's doing. Anne writes:

". . . I have MS was DX [diagnosed] in 1985. Went down hill a lot, was paralyzed four times before I found BVT. I saw an article in the Dallas newspaper about Charles Mraz using bees to help a man with Scleradoma. At the bottom of the article it said several people around Charles with MS had been helped & were walking again! I called Charles.
He agreed to train me over the phone. West Texas is a far piece from Vermont!
My husband of 33 yrs. was delegated to get the bees. Our CPA had some old hives his father had at the back "forty". . . I do have balance problems which I am working on by using Hippotherapy. For two yrs.
I've ridden the horses. Currently, I'm riding Max. He's a roping horse from Mexico. He's strong, has a very quick step. After riding Max, I do so much better the next day.
I can never say thank you enough to Charles for helping me. BVT - turned my life around! The Bees are truly God's Gift to us.
. . . I pray it works for you. Like Charles always told me, whatever you do Anne JUST DON'T GIVE UP!!. . . "Anne Cotter444@aol.com

Well, it's obvious that Anne is not a woman that gives up easily. She's doing all she can and, it seems to be working. I'd heard about horseback riding but had never before actual testimony as I do from Anne.I wonder if there are others who've experienced any benificial results from riding horses? And what's Hippotherapy? Well, what's so wonderful about this letter is how much Anne is doing to control her situation. She's doing what she can, with what there is. Good luck, Anne.

Day 174 - 04:21pm - October 24, 1997 EST

Stung 22x this morning on my shoulders, arms and hands. Started at the base of my neck, stung 4x along the neck - left and right sides -, then. . . moving straight outward. . . 2x on each shoulder then. . . continuing out - 2x on the arms. . . then, 2x on each of the forearms, and. . . 1x on the top of each wrist and finally, 2x on the back of each hand - once in-between the thumb and pointer.

The stings swelled quite a bit for the remainder of the day, especially those on my arms and even now my hands are swollen and puffy. I'd suppose all the other stingsites are swollen too, allthough I can't see them so I don't really know. But I can certainly feel them - and they are sore.

But the stings have really given me a boost today, and I'm feeling better than I have been over the last few days. . . since having taken the flu shot on Tuesday. I know some people say 'no' to the flu shot and others say 'yes' but I prescribe to the 'yes' because the few times that I've come down with the flu it really knocked me for a zinger. So I suppose this slight reaction is worth it - to me anyway.

Still considering the options for stinging when the 6 month trial period comes to a conclusion in a few weeks. I have already determined that I will continue, but in what capacity?

One option would be to begin to concentrate all the stings in one area - perhaps on my legs or lower back. . . as John had said worked so effectively for him and his bladder when he had inadvertantly stung his bladder meridian over and over again.On the other hand, Pat Wagner doesn't approve of this methodology, insisting that MS is a "total body disorder" and should be treated accordingly. Well, in truth, MS being the kind of dis-ease that it is, what works well for one may not always be the right answer for another. And of course, it is all still quite experimental.So, one never knows, but we must do what we feel is best. . . for ourselves as individuals.

But I received another e-mail from John yesterday. Interesting, he is one of those people who is not using live bees to sting with, but rather is being injected with venom exxtract under a doctors supervision.. In his letter, he tells me how he's doing and how well he expects to be doing in the near future. Love is optimism. John writes:

". . . I still believe! In my brief note to you last month I said how I
had put all stings (10 alternate days) in the bladder meridian and the
bladder and bowel problems were gone. They still are although I am now
using the "stomach" meridian which has the immune system boost point.
Why would we need a boost -- I would think a slow down. Actually we
neeed a readjustment in the immune system. I hope to walk well in a few
more months -- we'll see.

I first read your page a day or two after you first walked after popcorn
or something and amazed your son; . . .
Barry this is great improvement! You want more of course but it is
coming! Keep the faith.. . . " John <judge20@fidnet.com>

John is very inspiring and I love his enthusiasm. But more than that, these are not empty words. Things seem to be really happening for him. I have a feeling, John is on his way. Great hearing from him.

And here's e-mail from someone who cares about someone else. . . a lot . . . and is determined to do something about it. San writes:

". . . I have someone in my life who lives with MS. I met him by having my hair cut!
He's an awesome stylist, and an awesome person. He's 50 yrs. Married w/grown
children. All who seem not to be included in his search for freedom . . .
He is very interested in beesting therapy. I would like to help him find a way
to try it, if I have to sting him myself. . . . Can you help us?" San
Sanzoku@aol.com

Well, support is what it's all about. I've written and given mine. I wish San lots of luck. But most of all, San's friend is a very blessed man. It still amazes me at how much certain people just give and give. San's friend is finallty getting some decent support. Let's hope that the bees can do the rest.

Day 177 - 05:27pm - October 27, 1997 EST

Stung 22x this morning on my back, buttocks and hips. Started on my lower back approx. 2" from the spine and. . . .stung 4x on either side of the spine. Then, flaring out slightly. . . stung 3x on each buttock, then . . . stung 4x alongside each hip.

Weekend was good, all residual affects of the flu shot are good and gone. But still feel tight in my legs and ankles and knees.

Still taking the herbs prescribed by Elly Katz, the Israeli healer-herbalist, 10mg's of Baclofen - 2x a day, 100 mg's of magnesium, 2000 mg's vitamin C, a multi vitamin/mineral, 50mg's DHEA . . . and, 50mg's of a B-2 and B-6 complex, reflexology sessions with Alice Waag and of course daily meditation and prayer. The swimming season in the pond is over for at least the next 6-7 months and I have not worked up an alternative exercise routine - yet. But I am missing the swimming.

Okay. More options to consider for the continuation of this bee venom therapy. That letter from Sharon a few days ago got me thinking. In that letter she describes Denice, her friend who is helping her to sting. Denice began stinging in January of '97. . . and she stings 20x every day. . . and experiencing some really incredible results.Wow! That's an awful lot of stinging. As for me, I have to say, I certainly look forward to those alternate days when I don't sting. It's like, I need a break just to make it handle-able. But, hey, if stinging everyday is going to make the difference - can I afford not to handle it? I mean, would it not be worth it? Certainly something to ponder.

I haven't had any correspondence with Denice hereslf, just what I've been told by Sharon. She must be quite a trooper though. Well, stinging daily might be an option, but again, one that is not endorsed by Pat Wagner, the 'Queen of Sting'. In her manual, How Well Are You Willing To Bee, she reccomends stinging on alternate days - 3x a week - each session on a different section of the body, spreading it out . . . because, she maintains, MS is a 'total-body dis-order'.

Went up to Franklin MT. yesterday for a new jar of bees. Spoke with John McCoy, the beekeeper, and he assured me once again that he will be coming over to my house very soon to see about setting up a hive in my cellar - one from which I would be able to pull out bees throughout the winter. "It will take some experimenting," he says, "but we will give it a try." John's just a really super guy.

And talking about bees, here's an e-mail from Sharon, the one who's being stung by Denice, the woman who stings herself every day. Sharon, who's just starting out with 4 stings per session, describes how the bees arrive from Ferris in the mail. Sharon writes:

". . . Ferris has been wonderful to deal with as far as a source. He ships on
Mondays, I received on Thurs. They were healthy, come in a small wooden box,
little bigger than fishing lure box, top is plastic with holes punched all
over. There is a little nitch at each end so you can get 1 bee at a time.
Works well. You just have to be able to get from mailbox as soon as
delivered, so he ships them to neighbor for me. So, hopefully I am on my way
to a regular stinging routine, and better health. . . " Sharon BRzzz@aol.com

Next, here's e-mail from a devoted man in Chicago that's looking for some support for his brother. Jeremy writes:

". . . I have a severly incapacitated brother in Chcago who has MS. Is there someone in Chicago that can institute and monitor a bee sting program in his home? Please E-Mail or call me. My office # is 800 584-2937. . . " Jeremy Thayer JThayer578@aol.com

So, is anyone out there in the windy city? If you're there and there's anything you can do - please do it. What goes around, comes around.

Day 179 - 04:32pm - October 29, 1997 EST

Stung 20x this morning on my legs, ankles and feet. Started on the center of each thigh - way up on top, and stung straight down each leg. . . stung 3x on each thigh, then. . . 1x above and 1x below each knee, 3x on each shin, then, moving straight down. . . 1x on the ankle and finally 1x on the top of the foot.. Those toes really curled upward getting stung there.

Well, the six month trial period will be up by next week and I continue to review my options regarding this bee venom therapy. I'm considering concentrating and stinging one area and one area only - like my legs. Or perhaps I'll start a regiment of stinging every day - as opposed to every other day like I do now. Or maybe . . . I should start all over again.

I've read that with any drug or medication your body can easily grow accustomed to whatever it's taking. Perhaps after doing 20 stings every other day my body has grown too accustomed to it and I need to wake it up. Carol and I have been talking about possibly stopping all stings for a week and then starting the process all over again. . . starting with 2 stings the first week and increasing the number of stings by two weekly - like we had done at the beginning.

I remember there was a point that I was really feeling better and better every day. Have I just become accustomed to feeling better all the time? Not a bad thing to become accustomed to, I'd say. But I want to feel even better. I want to be able to walk. . . a lot better than I do today. Is there a plateau that one reaches in the sting therapy? Maybe 10 or 12 or 16 stings every other day or every week would be the ideal dosage. Or maybe the healing process slows down after the initial 6 month period.

Perhaps stopping for a week or so and starting all over again is a way to figure out just what the perfect and appropriate bee venom dosage is - for me. I know that Pat Wagner in her book How Well Are You Willing To Bee says that after the 6 month "jump-start" period, one should continue on an "as-needed basis." This might be a way of determining just what that amount might be.

Must call and order more of those herbal prescriptions prescribed by Elly Katz, the Israeli healer/herbalist. I am continuing to take them as I am continuing the bee therapy, but I feel that I've reached some sort of plateau. I'm not getting any worse, and this is good. Except for a small bout which I consider to be a bad reaction to the flu, I've been pretty darn stable for the past 6 months. . . since I began this bee venom therapy. And I've managed to really stay away from those heavy-duty drugs. Like Dexamethasone, a steroid, which I was on . . . in low dosages. . . for years. And Cylert, a minimum of 75mgs a day. And Methotrexate, a chemotherapy treatment. . . 7.5 mgs a week. And on and on. Now all I do is bee venom - pure and simple. 60 stings a week - 20 stings every other day.

Now, here's e-mail from Fred at the Weeping willow Ostrich Ranch. Fred is back into stinging, after having given it up and then starting again when he realized that perhaps bee venom had been keeping the dis-ease from progressing, Well, Fred has discovered some further bee benefits as well. Fred writes:

". . . Do you remember the lady that substituted honey for sugar, said there
were good and bad sugars.Well she's right.With honey I don't get that
high and low feeling and it satisfies my sugar craving.Thats what's
great about your journal.I never would have found this out if it were
not for people sending things in like that... . " Fred soly@SSVEC.ORG (Fred Soly) Weeping Willow Ostrich Ranch

Fred's a true cyber-buddy and I really enjoy his e-mail. But honey seems to be a smart substitute for sugar. And best yet, sounds like it's working for him.

And here's an e-mail from Amy who has a father who's dealing with MS. He is another individual who is receiving treatment via injection. Amy writes:

". . . I received your e-mail about the hormone study... I called my dad and
shared it with him too. . .Anyway, my father is now doing BVT [bee venom therapy] and has only received the equivalent of
3 bee stings. I talked to him today and he seems down in the dumps a little. I'm afraid he is expecting immediate results. I pray all the time that he receives some type of benefits, just so he can have some hope. I told him that everything I have read about BVT say it takes time. I spend many hours on the internet looking for information on alternative therapies
and information on BVT . . "
<AMYSMITH@integrityonline.com>

Sounds like Amy is really doing what she can. And her father is a very blessed man. There are so many people out there dealing with MS. . . without any of that support. Good lady, Amy and good luck, Amy's father.

Day 181 - 04:02pm - October 31, 1997 EST

Stung 20x this morning on my lower back and buttocks. Started 2/3 of the way down my back approx 4" from the spine and stung . . . 4x on the left and right sides. Continuing straight down, we then stung 6x on each buttock. Some of the stings really brought about the involuntary raising of the legs, levitating them upwards. I really like stinging this area because it brings about an immediate response and improvement in my ability to move my legs. The bees were real lively today and this was good. Here's why.

I'd asked my son, Gavin,13, to put some water into the bee jar. Usually I'll wet a paper towel and squeeze it over the lid through the air holes. Gavin . . . let's just say, over did it. When I noticed it the following morning - yesterday - I went through this whole trip of switching jars. But this time, I had to switfh toilet-paper rolls too. The one all these bees were huddled around was sopping wet. And so were the bees.

So I set up a new jar - honey across the bottom, paper towel and the whole deal - and took the jars outside along with a pair tweezers and made the switch. And, oh boy, things didn't go as smoothly as I'd planned.

As I tugged the cardboard roll out from the drenched jar, part of the toilet paper roll suddenly crumbled from the wetness and a large clump of bees fell to the ground into a pile of dead leaves. I was horrified . . . but I kept my wits about me quickly scooping up the batch of water logged bees . . . they were harmlerss .. . and dumped them into the dry jar. Many more were lost in the foliage and there was no-way I could pick them out of the leaves. So I laid the jar - the' hive'- on the leaves in the sun hoping they'd dty up and fly back into the new jar . . . and make themselves at home in the new toilet-paper roll. I wasn't sure if they would - but they did. And by that evening, when it was time to bring them inside, they were as lively and healthy as ever.

Anyway, back to stinging, I deviated from my regular routine this morning because normally I would be stinging my upper body - the neck, shoulders and hands. But today, with my 6 month of Basic Bee Training coming to an end. . . I'd decided to live dangerously! It's this area that I would concentrate on if I decide to sting one area repeatedly. But I'm not yet sure in which direction I'll go. . Let's say . . .. I'm testing the waters as it were.

Although I've already determined that I will continue to sting in one form or another the question remains - in just what capacity? Stinging one specific area for longer periods of time over and over again? Stinging on a daily basis as opposed to an every-other-day basis? Starting all over again - beginning with 2 stings & increasing the amount by 2 stings each week. . . as when I had first started this bee venom therapy? Or. . . perhaps . . . and here's a final option. . . just continuing on stinging as I am. That's right. Don't take a break in the action. Don't increase or decrease the number of stings. . . just go on stinging 20 stings every session on alternate days as I have been doing for months.

This idea is appealing primarily because if nothing else, I do feel that to date - over the past half-a-year, all this stinging has certainly kept the dis-ease from progressing. So why fool with what seems to be working? Answer is. . . because I want more. I am certainly pleased with the results so far because 'not getting worse' is getting better. But I want my condition to improve. I want to enter into a state of remission. I want to walk far better than I do today. And somehow I feel that by employing this bee venom therapy in just the right and perfect way for me, it can happen.

Now, here's e-mail from Ann whose 2 nieces and daughter are dealing with MS. One of the nieces has started the bee venom therapy with some real results. Ann writes:

". . . My niece in California is continuing with the bee stings. Got through the
flu stage, and her husband says that he can read her "evening" handwriting now.
Used to lose it by early afternoon. Also noticed that she was tapping her toes
to music, and hadn't seen that in ages. Gives some hope. He is keeping a
journal. If she continues to have even small signs of improvement, our other
niece in Portland OR may try it. Will forward your latest news to them both.
Thanks, . . . " Ann roundrock@plix.com

What a great lady. So supportive. She was the one that had first alerted them to this bee venom therapy. And now, good things are happening. Just fantastic what a little support can do, huh?

And here's e-mail from Donna Chandler in response to Fred's e-mail about honey. Seems like indeed, honey is a workable substitute for sugar. . . and then some. Donna writes:

". . . About honey, we use quite a bit of it too. Great with peanut butter on
toast! I just eat it out of the jar. I have a sweet tooth and this
seems to satisfy that craving. I make our honey mustard dip. We used
it on baked chicken, pork chops, etc. Good as a dressing for salads
too. If Carol decides to cook with it rather than sugar she needs to
half the called for sugar amount. Anyway thats enough of honey talk.
It's good and natural-one's body can only approve. One more last tip,
if you have trouble sleeping eat a spoonful or two.. . ." Donna <don1948@halifax.com>

Sounds good. And I'll have to try that part about sleeping. In the past, I always thought that sugar kept me up. Can honey be a relaxant? Donna should know.

And finally, here's something really special that you've got to check out for yourself. Donna's put together a personal home page entitled "My Life & Fight Against MS, in which she talks openly and candidly about her life, her bees and the MS she's managed to kick into remission. Highly personal and inspirational, it's a must read for anyone interested in the miracle of bee venom therapy. You'll

Day 184 - 05:03pm - November 3, 1997 EST

Stung 20x this morning on my shoulders, arms and hands. Started on my upper back approx. 4" from the spine and stung. . . 3x - left and right sides, then, 2x atop each shoulder, then, 2x on each arm, and 1x on each elbow, 1x atop each wrist and finally 1x on the center of each hand.

All right Ready for this unexpected news? John McCoy, the beekeeper of Franklin MT., came down his mountain this weekend to see what needs to be done to secure bees for me over the winter. And he had quite a surprise for me. He's going to bring and set-up about a dozen hives right here at the edge of our property. Here's why.

John feels that if I have only one hive in the basement and we pull bees from that one hive all winter long there is a good chance that we'd completely deplete that hive. Because the bees don't multiply through the winter, they just stay dormant.

As it so happens, at the top of his mountain he's got about a dozen hives that just don't winter well because of extreme cold and windy conditions at that particular spot on the mountain. . He suggested bringing them all over to my place, leaving them here all year round, and during the summer months he'd come by every few weeks to do whatever he does with the hives. Basically, the hives and its honey belong to him and I'd have the use of the bees - all year long. He'll show us how to get the bees out of the hives - even through the winter - and in this way we'd be taking bees from different hives so as not to deplete any one in particular. The details still have to be worked out but. . . man isn't that great? Here I'd been meditating on bees and hives not knowing how it would turn out - and God delivers.

Had a good weekend and my legs and ankles were not as tight and stiff as they usually are. This was good. Perhaps because I gave my lower back an extra sting session on Friday? The 6 month Basic Bee Training is up this week and I've been getting some interesting e-mail - really good people sharing their own thoughts and feelings about bee venom therapy.

Donna sent me this e-mail after digging back into her own journal notes, about her bee stinging routines - along with her personal rationale as to what makes the bee venom work in fighting Multiple Sclerosis. Donna writes:

". . . I stayed with [stinging] 3 times a week for about 8 months. Then it appears I went to Tuesday-Thursday for over 6 months. After that we played with it. I didn't miss a week until my 3rd year. Now sometimes if I feel good I will go two weeks. I am only doing once a week for the last year and few months...unless I get really tired. . . .My opinion is that the body gets use to the three times a week too. . . I think it works for me to keep it to the point that it doesn't know when it is going to get it. . . In my opinion and totally not science proven, I believe that we are injecting into our bodies a toxic or poison so the immune system fights it instead of us. That's why we see no progression. . . We keep things so screwed up it is confused! We also play with the number of stings, one time 6-8, next time 20-30, or whatever I decide for the day. . . ." Donna don1948@halifax.com

Donna's theory of how and why the stings and venom work makes a lot of sense to me. I definitely feel that the bee venom has kept me in a status quo condition- and this is great. Now, I have to figure out, what number of stings works for me. Perhaps my body has gotten used to 20 stings every other day. Maybe I need to wake it up a little.

At this point I know that I'll continue to sting - because I feel so much better since I'd started on May 6th - 184 days ago. And there have been days that I 've really felt strong over the past 184 days.

Here's e-mail from Paula, a very wonderful and caring music therapist that has taken upon herself to secure a bee stinging regiment for her friend Joey - who is convalescing in a home out in Calif. Joey is getting closer. Paula writes:

". . . Saw Joey today, & his sister. Was delighted to hear she got the bee sting
prescription filled, we are now just awaiting bees. Should start the
process next week. His sister is going to do it for a week. Then the
activity director at the facility (with biggest heart) has volunteered to
sting him. Keep your fingers crossed, we still have a bridge or two to
cross concerning the corporation allowing a staff member to do the
stinging. Don't know what's involved there, and just know if we got this
far the universe will open the appropriate windows and doors. . . " Paula

"polywaly" <polywaly@quiknet.com>

I hope that once Joey starts on bee venom therapy and there is a noticeable change in his condition for the better, the road will be an easier one. Let's hope. I wish them all the best.

Day 186 - 03:39pm - November 5, 1997 EST

Stung 18x this morning on my thighs, knees and ankles. Started on the inside of the thigh and stung. . . 3x on each thigh - left & right sides. Then. . . stung 4x - above & below - on either side of each kneecap, and finally 2x on each ankle - behind and in front of each ankle bone.

Woke up this morning feeling awfully stiff, much more so than usual.Could be because I hadn't taken the 10mg's of Baclofen before bedtime that I normally take. Just trying to shake things up a little. So the bee stings this morning were welcome - especially the ones on my thighs that had my legs jerking and levitating upwards in reaction to the stings.

The stings this morning also had me running to the bathroom so that we had to break in mid-session. Going to the bathroom is a common occurrence during a stinging session and my personal take on this is that it's the body's natural desire to protect itself and to expel the poison.

Tomorrow will be exactly 6 months since I've embarked on this bee venom therapy but the exact time is really irrelevant. Believe it or not, I still haven't come to a definitive decision. To sting more often, to sting less often, to sting one place repeatedly or to stop for a week and start the process all over again. I still have about 40-50 bees in my mayonnaise jar from the last fill-up on Franklin MT. When it's time for more bees, I will make my decision. Certainly no sense in wasting good bees.

But I continue to get supportive e-mail from my cyber-friends who have there own suggestions as well as there own decisions to make regarding bee venom therapy. Jane writes:

" . . .Don't stop the stings, I thought about it, it took several years to get this thing and does it go away in a few months or maybe even years, NOT!!
Have patience, it is a virtue, and believe in the great MAN upstairs. . . I am not any worse, so as you have said I know I am better. . . Still on beta-seron, just don't know what to do. I want to quit badly
but after 2 years I just don't know. Last nite I decided to quit and when the time came for a shot, I took it. I know the time will come for me to quit, I just don't know for sure when. Sure don't like putting that stuff in my body. Wish someone could tell me for sure what the stings along with the shots did! Whether they worked against each other or with each other. Am at complete loss, I know what I want to do but I think it will take a bolt of lightning in the shape of a B or something
else in that order to yell out at me. . . take care amd keep up the stings and the great web site. . . " Jane <law@compu.net>

Jane is a real terrific cyber-friend and a very sweet and sensitive person. I know it's a difficult choice that she's got to make. . . and in essence she makes it everyday. But, I admire her because she's not just sitting back and hoping for miracles. She's doing what she can. . . and as far as I'm concerned, she's doing great. Because none of us really know - yet.

Now, here's an e-mail from my cyber-buddy Fred at the Weeping Willow Ostrich Ranch. Fred writes:

". . . It seems that the ms hasn't progressed up to this point since you've been doing the bees.That's a plus for sure. . .
I think ,and this is only me talking that as long as your doing some form of bvt [bee venom therapy] then things will remain positive. Maybe take a little time off like you said and then start up again.See I didn't do that, just kept stinging for two and a half years non stop.I don't think that was the route to go.But who knows,just another thing for you to think about.. . "Fred fsoly@SSVEC.ORG

Wow! I hadn't realized that Fred had been stinging for that long before he'd started up again. And he started again because as he'd said in previous letters, and I'm paraphrasing here, 'The MS hadn't progressed until I stopped the stinging. 'Well, he's certainly someone to pay heed to.

And another e-mail from my cyber-chum, John, who is doing his bee stinging with injections. He certainly keeps me on the straight and narrow. John writes:

". . . I vote to keep on with what you are doing with forays into any trouble
area. I can see no advantage to reducing' maybe stopping a month and
restarting but not reducing and then coming back to full strength. But
there are no experts. . . "

John <judge20@fidnet.com>

The main thing I got out of this, was to keep on stinging. And he lets me know it's my call. I really appreciate his support.

And finally, if you think the type has gotten larger - it has. My darling wife Carol was looking over my shoulder the other day and said, "Really honey, with all the trouble people have with their eyes, don't you think that type should be larger?" I love her.

And, oh yeah, I e-mailed Pat Wagner. Might as well ask her too.

Day 188 - 05:43pm - November 7, 1997 EST

Stung 18x this morning on my lower back, buttocks and hips. Started on my lower back approx. 8" from the spine and stung 3x - left & right sides - then, continuing down. . . stung 3x on each buttock , and, moving further down, stung 3x on each hip.

The bees, going on its second week in my man-made hive are doing quite well. After their near demise due to over watering last week, I am actually surprised by how well they're doing. The stings hurt as usual but being on my lower back they were easier to handle.

Must get in touch with Elly Katz, the Israeli healer-herbalist and find out about the herbs that I've been taking. Seems to me that they are not as effective as the herbs she had prescribed for me over the summer. Those had me feeling more energetic. . . or perhaps they worked more powerfully in conjunction with the bee venom. I would like to go back to the original herbs she'd prescribed, but I won't do that without consulting her first. Elly insists that she prescribes these herbs for me in her capacity as a spiritual healer - after meditating deeply upon me and my condition - and not so much as an herbalist offering herbal remedies. I will contact my sister, Rivka, in Israel, and take it from there.

Anyway, besides the herbs, I'm taking 10mg's of Baclofen - 2x a day, 100 mg's of magnesium, 2000 mg's vitamin C, a multi vitamin/mineral, 50mg's DHEA . . . and, 50mg's of a B-2 and B-6 complex, reflexology sessions with Alice Waag and of course daily meditation and prayer. And I have yet to come up with an alternative exercise routine for swimming. Summer's over and I might as well own up to it. I suppose my getting up and trying to walk - 'shlepping' - is worth something.

Received an e-mail from Pat Wagner yesterday, the Mistress of Sting as I so fondly refer to her as. What a woman.With all that she's got to deal with in her own life, her own battle with MS, she remains in the forefront of this method of treatment. She does so because she believes in it so strongly. And her belief is not unfounded. In 1992 she was bedridden due to the MS. You can read about her miraculous story for yourself in her book, "How Well Are You Willing To Bee". Through bee venom therapy Pat has turned her condition completely around, becoming one of it's strongest advocates in the process.

And Pat has another suggestion, one that I hadn't thought of myself. It never ceases to amaze me. Whenever I think I've got it all figured, up comes something totally else. Pat writes:

". . . Good to hear from you. . . . Rather than stopping then starting with 2 stings, why not start decreasing the amount of stings by two each week until you get to that comfortable amount? When I get a chance to get stung, I usually get 10 to 16. [When] I didn't get any stings for weeks . . . I could really tell I needed them. I finally got 10. Then, two days later I got 12 . . . bee well.. . . " Pat Wagner <beelady@olg.com>

I tell you no lies, it was Pat who first brought bee venom therapy to my awareness and I will be forever grateful. I have to say, her suggestion makes an awful lot of sense. I suppose I'll just have to experiment and feel it out for myself. That's the thing about this dis-ease. No two alike. It's every man and woman "to decide" for themselves. Well, one thing I've decided and that is to keep on stinging - in one form or another. Because I feel that if nothing else, it's kept the dis-ease from progressing.

Now here's e-mail from a man who's ready to do what he can for his wife but needs a little extra support. Mark writes:

". . . Enjoyed reading your journals. My wife has MS and desperately wants to try
the Bee sting therapy. I want to support her but am not sure where to start.
Can you tell me who in Canada, I am from Toronto, would assist in getting us
started. . . ." Mark M1pearl@AOL.COM

For you guys who've done it starting out on your own, why not let Mark know he and his wife can do it too. Better yet. . . is anyone up there in Toronto?

Day 191 - 04:16pm - November 10, 1997 EST

Stung 18x this morning on my shoulders, neck, arms and hands. Started on the center of my back right below the neck line and stung 3x to the left and then 3x to the right, then. . . moving out onto my shoulders stung 2x on each shoulder, then . . .1x on each elbow, then. . . 1x on the outside of each wrist, and then. . . 1x on the top of each hand.

Then I said to my lovely wife, Carol,"Let's do the neck." And she asked, "Why?" And I answered, "Because everyone says it's supposed to be a good place to sting." I hate stinging on the neck and have avoided being stung there for weeks. But I went for it this morning and we ended up finishing the session with 2 final stings just below the hairline. But ooh, man, those neck stings always hurt so much - and no different today as the stings burned and left their red welts. As I look at my hands, I see that they are still swollen this afternoon - but they aren't as numb or cramped and feel alive and limber. This is good .; . . as the fingers move easily across the keyboard.

So I 'm past my 6 months trial period of stinging. . . and continue to sting - with enthusiasm, knowing that it is the right thing to do. . . for me.

I've been dealing with MS for too many years now and realize that in 6 months all of my symptoms - all of the havoc this dis-aese has brought about to my physical body over the last 20+ years - could not have possibly been rectified in only six months time. Yeah, sure, I wanted that big miracle to hit on me. But sometimes big things start out in small ways. As the Chinese philosopher said, "The longest journey, begins with one step."

Six months ago I was taking weekly dosages of steroids and chemotherapy along with daily dosages of amphetamines and sleeping pills. Today, I'm feeling better than I had 6 months ago. . . and all I'm doing are "bees".

But, I'm not yet convinced that doing "more" stings is necessarily better. Perhaps it is, perhaps it isn't. But for now I will continue to sting as I have been - every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. What I will be looking for is to see what happens with a few less stings each session. I've had such terrific energy over the last 6 months. . . . with fewer stings, will my energy level decrease? And if so, at what number? Or, will my condition improve overall with fewer stings . . . because there'll be less soreness to my body?

Here's an e-mail from Mike who's been stinging for a while and makes some interesting observations about the number of stings he does per session. Mike writes:

". . . I 've been stinging since Feb. of '97 and all I do is 18-20 stings, three days a week. It seems like if I sting more than that, I feel really blah the next day. Should I stay at 18-20 stings or do more? I feel good if I don't increase the stings. My strength has improved, but still have problems with my balance. . . . I tried only stinging twice a week, like Pat had said, but that did not work to well. My legs didn't agree with that. I don't think I have reached my goal on getting better to cut back on the stings, so I think it's a good idea to stay stinging three days a week. . . I'm doing things better everyday . . ." Mike <mwolve@wolv.tds.net>

Seems like Mike has got the same things to figure out as I do . . . as we all do. Well, only time will tell what the right and perfect amount is and where all this is leading. And as it does, I'll continue to tell it like it is. But Mike's not quitting either. Seems like he's been having some real positive results too. Great.

And here's an e-mail from Dr. Jim, my physician. Like always, he tells it to me as he sees it. Dr. Jim writes:

". . . It must be a bit discouraging, not seeing a lot of reversal of symptoms. On
the other hand, there's a lot to be said for lack of progression of symptoms,
so I wouldn't get too down at this point. I think you should continue with
the bee stings. . . " Jim

I received my first stings, from Dr. Jim, in his office, and he's been supportive of me and this whole trip right from the start. Couldn't have done this without him. Well, i guess I'll just have to listen to "doctor's orders".

Day 193 - 05:13pm - November 12, 1997 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my thighs, knees and calves. Started on the tops of my thighs and stung 4x on each thigh - outside and inside, then. . . stung 2x on each knee - left and right sides, and finally, stung 2x on each calve - on the muscle.

The stings stung and welted and my legs are sore. . . but feel good - awake and alive. Could have done more but my wife, Carol, said, "Remember, we're experimenting now and want to see how your body reacts to fewer stings." I suppose old habits die hard, even painful ones.

But I'm beginning to feel the accumulative positive effects of all these bee stings over the past 6 months. It is really becoming a part of my total, everyday, body experience. Hadn't stung my legs last session - Monday's session - but on Monday and yesterday, Tuesday, my legs felt stronger anyway - not numb and lifeless like they used to. Still not walking, still "shlepping", but "shlepping I am and not feeling any worse. This, along with my overall energy level - my desire and ability to get up and do what needs to be done, are what the benefits of this bee venom therapy are all about, for me, so far.

As I peer out the window and see snow falling, I know that time is moving along and something will have to be done soon regarding setting up those hives somewhere out back. How I will be able to pull bees from these hives is still a mystery to me but John, the beekeeper, has said he has some ideas and will experiment with them. Well, I'm beginning to feel a bit skeptical. But still faithful.

I'm in need of a fresh jar of bees. This last jar is going on 3 weeks and I haven't been able to let them out and buzz free because it's just been too cold. I'm not sure the remainders will make it till Friday. So I'll journey up Franklin MT. tomorrow and see, if nothing else, if John can supply me with another batch. But I don't know. Looks awfully cold out there. Will he be able to extract bees from a hive? Has it gotten too cold already? I've been reading more about "wintering hives" and it does not appear to be all that simple. There is a possibility that an entire hive can be destroyed in the process. Wouldn't want that to happen.Well, if I can't get bees from John I'll have to send away to Ferris, the mail order place. For those who might need that number.

Ferris The Largest Supplier Of Honeybees For Bee Venom Therapy In America! 1-800-787-4669 Open Monday-Friday 9:00am- 5:00pm EST P.O. Box 143 Marbury, MD 20658

And some of us are just not all that lucky. I received this e-mail from Paula, the music therapist in N. California, who's been doing everything she can to get her friend Joey onto some sort of bee stinging regimen. Joey is not doing well, suffering with his fight against this "dis-ease" in a healthcare center that's giving him zero support. Paula writes:

" . . . As for my sweet friend Joey, he got the bees and his Dr. bailed on him. Told the facility where Joe
lives, that he would not touch this apitherapy with a ten foot pole. So then the facility gets all shook out of shape and insists that if Joey gets stung , it must be off the premises. Had to let the bees go, (so near yet so far!) Joey's sister really jumped through all their little hoops and we still are fighting the battle. I saw Joey on Sunday afternoon, he said he talked to his roommates doctor (roommate also has MS) asked if he might like another patient. The Dr. said "sure". But Joe didn't ask him how he felt
about apitherapy. Meanwhile , time marches on for my friend Joey. He has the patience of Jobe, guess he doesn't have much of a choice, but how he continues to smile and joke through it all is a total inspiration to me. I guess we're back to square one, but not quite, at least now we know where to get the bees , and which hoops to jump through, maybe we just need more
practice jumping. At any rate, we're keeping the faith. I trust and believe in the universe and know that God will take care of the details. Just have to let go of them myself and let the universe flow. . . " Paula & Joey "polywaly" <polywaly@quiknet.com>

Wow! Can hardly believe what I read. My heart goes out to Joey. I just can't understand it. There he is, nothing of consequence are they able to do for the man and yet the "establishment" will deny him the opportunity to at least try something new and different - something that might have a positive effect on his condition. I mean, where are these people's heads at? So determined to be "right"?

I can only send my prayers towards the west and admire Paula who continues to hang in and hope for miracles. And in this case, the miracle would be nothing more than some common sense. Meanwhile, I count my blessings today for nothing more than having the freedom of choice.

Day 195 - 04:27pm - November 14, 1997 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my lower back and buttocks. Started on my lower back about 4" from the spine - left & right sides - and stung 8x down either side going straight onto my buttocks.

Practically used up the last of the bees from my old jar - about 6 remaining. Let's see if they hang-in till Monday morning. If they do, they'll get the "longevity" award. I've never had bees last longer than 3 weeks in a mayonnaise jar.

The bees were lethargic this morning and the kids were home from school because of snow so Gavin, my 13 year old, was anxious to do some stinging. And sting he did and when he left the jar open the bees didn't even try to escape and when they fell off the ends of the tweezers they didn't go airborne. But it was good to have Gavin involved and I know he really enjoyed being part of the experience.

The stings stung but I don't believe they had the same "bite" to them that a fresh batch normally has. Are they as potent? I would think so. I'm certainly as sore as ever this afternoon.

Went up to Franklin MT. yesterday to fetch another batch of bees and my dear friend John, the beekeeper, came through for me again. The snow had stopped yesterday, Thursday, and the sun was shining and John said he hadn't any problems retrieving the bees. He has also been cutting holes in the hives and doing whatever it is that he is doing in preparation of "wintering the hives".

John said that perhaps this weekend he will transfer the hives onto my property - he's been waiting for the weather to be really super-cold so that the bees are dormant and quiet during the transfer. Sounds right to me and I'd say this weekend could be the time. As I look out my window behind my computer screen I see a white landscape as snow and sleet continues to fall. Schools out today and we're expecting 4" to 6" inches - the first major storm of the season. And as I look over at my fresh batch of bees I feel grateful and fortunate that here it is mid-November, snow falling, and I still have an allotment of bees to sting with.

My cyber-buddy Fred, from The Weeping Willow Ostrich Ranch sent me this e-mail after reading my last entry. I thought it important to pass along. Fred writes:

". . . I was reading you journal you said you might have to get bees from Ferris. The box I
received today had a note on the box that said "We will be on vacation
Dec.5-14. Bees will be mailed on Dec. 8 but must be ordered by
thursday, Dec. 4. Please call us if your check gets mailed late, etc."
Thought you might want to know. Fred fsoly@SSVEC.ORG ) Weeping Willow Ostrich Ranch

Now, here's some e-mail from Ray who started stinging last month. He's really into it and it sounds like he's not giving in and is determined to give this thing a fair try. Ray writes:

". . . I just received my second round of 20. Body is definitely acclimating. I am a 40 year old white male in Pensacola ,Florida with CPMS [chronic progressive multiple sclerosis]. Alertness, energy, and bowel / bladder control all seem better. Still waiting for the 'cure' or miracle or something. . . . I have been "at it" for a little over a month. My wife and I went to DC around October 1, 1997 and we went to Waldorf and met Pat. I walked into her house and "announced" that I just wanted to ask her some questions. She basically said "On contrair mon che-ir", and stung my butt 8 times. I stayed
up the next few nights until 11 or 12 P.M. Definitely had more energy. . . I went thru 2 BAD phases as I suspect my body acclimated to the venom. On these two occasions I literally was unable to get out of bed. The second time I fell and busted my head. Nice 1.5 inch cut above my right eye. . .
My "sting" buddy Mark S. got a similar reaction and quit the therapy because of it. He said it was all he could do to roll over and urinate on the floor. I understand he wants to start it again and I will help him if he wants. . . . I did it alone for the first period (maybe 2 or 3 weeks). My wife and others are not too keen on it. It is much easier to have my wife "do me". . . My dexterity is not that good. Though I think I could manage. I find a spray bottle of water VERY helpful. If they escape, or even if they don't, just spray them down and they cannot fly and are much easier to pick up. . . " Ray Rayseal@aol.com

Ray has lots of enthusiasm - and a great tip about spraying the bees down. I want to give him all the support he needs and deserves. He's a determined individual and with that, there's nowhere to go but up. Thanks for sharing your experience, Ray. It's good to know we're not alone.

And here's some e-mail that I really enjoyed. It's from someone who is into supporting in any way she knows how. Julie writes:

". . . I'm a 12 year old girl and my father has had MS for as long as I can remember
and I hope that bee sting is the one... the one that is going to cure him.
Where can he get it or more information on it? Please Write Back!" Julie Jole220s@aol.com

Well, I have written back - and so has Katrina, my 11 year old (going on 12). I want her to know that I really admire her. She's into it and what more can you ask for? Because with her support of her father, all things are possible. Without it, none of this is worth beans. . . uh, or should I say, bees.

And finally, take note of a new link at the bottom of the page. It's called Health BBS. I'm adding this site as a good place to go for some interesting dialogue. It's a Dutch outfit so it's an "open-minded forum" and the fellow who runs the site, Jaap, seems like a real decent person. Check it out.

Day 198 - 04:14 pm - November 17, 1997 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my back, Started at the top between the shoulder blades approx. 1" - 2"' inches from the spine and stung 8x down each side of the spinal column to the waist.

Well, the remaining 8 bees in that last jar had lived through the weekend. They'd survived more than 3 weeks in the mayonnaise jar - a record amount of survival time in captivity. When Carol and I finished those off we cracked open the new jar that we'd gotten from John, the beekeeper, up on Franklin MT. last week.

The new bees were a lot livelier than the older ones - constantly trying to escape the jar. But Carol, my wife, has indeed become the expert. She easily snags them firmly between the tips of her tweezers and pressing the tweezers with the bee 'buzzing' against my flesh - she nudges it gently downward with her index finger, coaxing it to sting. And today, once they stung, I couldn't detect any difference in the actual burning of the "sting" itself - between the old bees and the new bees. Are they both equally as potent? I would think so.

Received an e-mail from my sister Rivka in Israel. She'd spoken with Elly Katz, the Israeli healer-herbalist. Elly reminded Rivka to remind me that these herbs she was prescribing were meant specifically for me based upon her deep thoughts and meditations on me in particular - not as an herbal remedy for people with MS.

I had e-mailed Rivka a few weeks ago saying that the herbs I was presently taking did not appear to be as effective as the previous ones Elly had prescribed for me over the summer. She passed this onto Elly and in response Elly has suggested that I now take a break from the controversial herb she'd prescribed - an immune system enhancer - for the next 12 days - before re-starting on it again. She also suggested I resume taking the herbs I had been taking through the summer.

So far, taking all these herbs in conjunction with the bee venom seems to have kept my condition in a "status quo" state and perhaps has even improved it. Certainly my increased stamina and noticeable decrease in daily fatigue has been prominent. But the legs are still stiff, the knees and ankles not bending enough to be doing any serious walking. But truth be known, I feel that it is the bees which is doing most of the good work on me. Although, the herbs are not to be under-estimated. They indeed are quite potent and invigorating.

Along with the herbs, I am taking 10 mg's of Baclofen - 2x a day, 100 mg's of magnesium, 2000 mg's vitamin C, a multi vitamin/mineral, 50mg's DHEA . . . and, 50mg's of a B-2 and B-6 complex, reflexology sessions with Alice Waag and of course daily meditation and prayer. I've also started a daily morning ritual of stretching my body. Nothing fancy and nothing specific.

Carol has been doing Yoga stretching exercises for years and I've decided to pull up a chair next to her in the living room as she goes through her routine. First I watch her and see how beautiful a body is when it is whole and healthy and responsive. Then I twist and pull and stretch in any direction I am able in my own inimitable fashion.. Nothing very pretty (my stretching, that is) but I figure I'll see where it goes. Can't hurt. I just know that it's important to do something. As the Quakers say,"When you pray, move your feet." I wonder what sort of exercises other people dealing with MS do - if any.

Now, here's e-mail from Jim whose sister-in-law is undergoing bee venom therapy. She gets about 30+ stings every other day. She had begun stinging in a group where folks get together to sting and to be stung. Here's an update. Jim writes:

.
" . . . I hope things are going good for you too. . . Jeanne Rae [my sister-in-law] is doing fine and she feels that the stings are helping....I'm not with her every day so I really don't see improvement...but as long as she feels better. My wife [who helps with the stinging] has noticed a change for the better (more healthy looking) in her facial features. Also, Floyd (the bee man) had an addition put on his shanty by his church so that he can accommodate all the people who are now going to his home for therapy. . . " Jim Tenucci@aol.com

Sounds great. People taking matters in their own hands and doing what they can with what there is. My best to Jeanne Rae and. . . my hat goes off to Floyd. A man who deserves many "kudos". Yet another beekeeper that is obviously a wonderful and giving individual. I don't know what it is about