Stung 16x this morning on my sides, back, hip, thighs legs, calves and feet.

Started and stung 1x on each hip. Then, 2x on the outside of each thigh and 2x on the outside of each calve. 1x atop each foot- above the large toe. Then, 1x on the sides of my back and 1x to the right and left sides of my tailbone. Had taken a little spill the other day and landed on my tailbone which is a little sore now. Thouht a couple of stings might help. Can't hurt.

That head cold seems to linger on although it is still centered only in my head. That's still important. But man, it just doesn't seem to want to go away. The snow has started to fall over the past few days again and it is quite beautiful. But yesterday's storm put the brakes on those fellows who were to videotape here yesterday. We had to cancel. Oh, well. They'll be back soon enough.

Regardless of the weather however, will have to brave the outdoors today and make it into town. It's Katrina's birthday on Sunday and I want to get her some gifts and cake and all the rest. She'll be 13 and it is a big day for her. And I'm determined to make the most of my children's childhood events - at least doing and being involved in whatever I am able. And whether the Bee Venom Therapy is making me walk better or not - it certainly gives me the energy to live life and be involved to the fullest. And this is what life is all about - really.
 
 

Day 675 - 1:02am - March 8, 1999 EST

Stung 6x this morning on my sides.

Stung 3x down either side.

Had a big snow storm here over the weekend and although the sun is shining today I can't expect the kids to go down and fetch bees today. Over a foot of snow. But, I did have 6 little guys remaining in the jar so that's all I was able to do. It's okay, though. The important thing is to just keep some venom getting into the system.

Talking about bees and how long they last, here's a letter from Diane, a real committed stinger. Diane writes:

". . . JUST READING YOUR JOURNAL, AND I WAS READING YOU MENTIONING
THE "BEE HOTEL"--BARRY, I ORDERED MY HOTEL FROM DICK JOHNSON, AND MY
BEES LASTED 2 MONTHS THIS TIME. THIS WAS THE LONGEST EVER. THEY USUALLY
LIVE A MONTH OR SO IN THERE, BUT MY MOM GOT MY BEES ON JANUARY 1, 1999
AND THEY LASTED TILL MARCH 1, 1999!!!! I JUST HAD TO TELL YOU THIS. MOM
GETS THEM FROM A DEAR SWEET BEEKEEPER FRIEND OF MINE. EVEN HE COULDN'T
BELIEVE IT THAT THEY WERE LIVING THAT LONG. I KEEP THEM IN MY
BEDROOM CLOSET.IT IS ABOUT 60 DEGREES IN THERE. I GOT MY BOX IN SEPTEMER
1997. IN THE SUMMER WE PUT THEM OUT ON NICE DAYS,ANDTHEY FLY AROUND,
DEFICATE, AND RETURN TO THE BOX, BEFORE DARK, JUST PUT THE LID BACK ON,
AND BRING THEM IN. JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU THIS. FOR ME, THE BEE BOX
WORKS VERY WELL. YOU JUST REMOVE THE SIDE LID,TRANSFER SOME INTO THE
PREPARED JAR, PUT THE LID BACK ON THE JAR AND BOX----THIS TAKES 2
PEOPLE---- AND YOU'RE ALL SET !! HEY BARRY, THIS PERSON IS ME SOMEDAY
---THRU BVT---GETTING OUT OF A WHEELCHAIR !! YOU TAKE CARE, BEE BETTER,
DIANE

MUMMYBEE@webtv.net (Diane Hostler)
 
 

Great letter from a really pleasant and enthusiastic person. And I've borrowed that logo she'd sent and put it under my name. Just love it! Diane is a smart young lady.

Well, many have written and asked about that Bee Hotel and I'd say Diane says it all. I've spoken to Dick Johnson on the phone and he is a very, very nice man who has been a beeker for many, many years and is quite friendly with Charles Mraz.. He doesn't have e-mail - but, here's his phone number. 518-734-4629. Call him if you're interested in one of his hand-made Bee Hotels. They run somewhere between $45-$60 (can't recall exactly) but it seems like it may well be worth the investment. My friend David who comes and collects bees from my hives for himself has one - and swears by it. It is very well crafted and very handsome looking. If you call Dick he will give you the low-down on just how it works and how to make it work for you. And mention that you read about it here - I'd like for him to know. And I believe he has brochures of some sort.

Day 678 - 3:25pm - March 11, 1999 EST

Stung 13x this morning on my hips, thighs calves, feet and finger.

Started and stung 1x on each hip. Then, 2x on the front of each thigh. Then 2x on each side of each calve. Then, 1 bee stung me on the tip of my pointer finger while I was trying to press her down. Finale, 2x atop each foot.

Man, I'd never stung on the tips of my fingers and it does hurt as I press on these keys. Going to keep it at a minimum today.

My good cyber-friend Wally just had an article published entitled, A Reporter Confronts His Feelings and you've got to check it out. When you click on the above highlighted title it will take you to New Mobility Magazine. Once there, click on "Small Town Advocacy" under featured articles, March '99. It's really good. Wally does not have it easy - not by a longshot - yet he has such perseverance and creativity, is very much involved with helping others & has been stinging for about a year - Incidentally, I believe his town is honoring him this evening with a special award for Public Service. Mr. Walt Dudley is one heck of a guy!

Day683 - 10:10am - March 16, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my neck, sides and chest.

Started and stung 1x on each side of the base of the neck. Then, 5x down either side. Finally, 1x on each side of the chest just below the crack of the armpit.

We've had our share of snow but when it melts and the sun comes out my kids, Gavin (15) and Katrina (13) have no problem in going and retrieving bees. Gavin went out yesterday afternoon and brought back a rather "full" jar.

Have been feeling okay. That head cold I had has mostly given way although it lingers slightly. My tail-bone still hurts a bit too from that "spill" I'd taken a week ago. But most of all I miss going out and swimming. There's still plenty of snow out there but I can "sense" sunlight at the end of the rainbow. Spring in a few weeks and I'm that much closer to that time of year.

Josh & Ryan, the documentary filmmakers have contacted me again and want to finish their shoot of the family this week. Perhaps on Thursday.

And here's an e-mail from my dear friend Donna who helped get me started into all this stinging to begin with. Donna writes:

". . .: Just an update on me...saw my neuro on the 5th and heard
those wonderful words again and a few others....No Progession...you are
a miracle! The end of the month, I will be stinging for 6 years. I
usually see him every six months and since we've done so well, I am
going now once a year. My pocketbook says yea, or his ego, says good
grief!. . . " Donna don1948@halifax.com (Donald Chandler)
 
 

All right, now! Yes, great news indeed. Donna is a living example of the benefits of Bee Venom Therapy. She was one of those smart and lucky ones who started stinging soon after diagnosis. And if indeed this therapy keeps this "dis-ease" under control - Donna is living proof. A great and special lady. In case you haven't been to her WebPage entitled My Life & Fight Against MS you might want to stop by and say hello. It's a "feel good" place to visit on the WWW.
 
 

Day686 - 11:35am - March 19, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, ankles and feet.

Started and stung 3x on the front of each thigh.Then, 1x on the outside of each knee. Then, 2x on the outside of each calve. Then, 1x on the front crease of each ankle and finally 1x on the outside of each ankle.

Woke up this morning feeling real good and energetic - but stiff. That's the strange thing about this "dis-ease" sometimes you feel strong and energetic and other times, well, you know. I've really been experimenting with the Baclofen - taking 1/2 a pill (5mgs) in the mornings. Especially on days on which I sting.

Well, the documentary guys couldn't make it yesterday so we're going to try for it again next week. It'll happen.

Here's an email from Lynn who is a committed stinger. She sends some information regarding that Bee Hotel - and more. Lynn writes:

". . . I wanted to let you know the bee hotel is available from Honeybee Health
Products. I just received a new catalog from them and they have added lost of
new stuff for BVT.

Also there is a 3 tape video series now available titled "The Art of the
Sting" dealing with BVT and you can obtain it thru Brushy Mountain Bee
Farm.

They are broken downlike this:
Video 1-Bee Venom Therapy,
Video 2-Nerve Centers for Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis
Video 3- The Care and Maintance ofBees for Bee Venom Therapy by
lecturer James R. Higgins.

The 3 videos are 39.95 and the item # is 955. You can oder by calling
1-800-233-7929.

That's the buzz from this end!. . ."
Lynn

LYNN GIBSON <l.gibson@usa.net>

Very thoughtful and considerate of Lynn. Well, we know about that Bee Hotel but haven't heard anything about these videotapes. I know I'd thought about making a "how-to" video on bee stinging but it's good to see that someone else has done it. I wonder if these tapes actually demonstrate the procedure.
 
 

Day 690 - 10:59am - March 23, 1999 EST

Stung 6x this morning down the sides of my torso.

Started and stung 3x down either side.

Major snow storm came through here Sunday night and we had all our power - electricity - go out until this morning. That was 36 hours without the conveniences of 20th century living. . . like running water and heat. But it was a good "dry-run" for Y2K. Carol, my wife, really has things together though and between the woodstove, candles and bottled water we fared pretty well. But I certainly wouldn't want to live that way for very long.

Anyway, with 18" of wet & heavy snow out back I made do this morning with the few remaining bees that I had left in the mayonnaise jar from last week. Although I could have used a few more stings, I feel that the important thing is to just keep a continuum of venom in my system. And alternating the amount of stings per session is probably a good idea as well. For me, anyway.

Here's an e-mail from my good cyber-friend Judy. Judy has had some remarkable results with Bee Venom Therapy. And she continues to benifit. Judy writes:

". . . You know - one year ago I was house-bound the entire winter. I had only been on the bee venom for 4 months ... that was December of 1997. Now I KNOW the venom works long term
because I was not only able to get out in the cold - travel a long distance in the winter time - but, wheel myself outside WITHOUT uncontrollable shivvers and WITHOUT all the discomforts of 1997. It was fabulous.

. . . I was totally paralyzed when Andy first started stinging me and now, I'm only
partially paralyzed. My arms or hands and fingers didn't work at all ... and,
now they do. They are NOT 100% ... but, they function. My mind is clear -
and, it wasn't. There is not a clinic in the world that can do this. There
is not a machine in the world that can do this. . .

Good news! For the first time since I began stinging ... my hand swelled up
twice it's size. I've never had swelling before - not like this ... and I am
thrilled! Usually, I get a little pea size welt that disappears right away
... but this! I am proud because for the first time ... part of my body
responded to a sting like a normal person's response. I could hoist my hand
up on a flag pole and wave it to the world ... cause it looks like a helium
balloon and I'm proud of it.. . ." Judy JAlva76117@aol.com

Judy is a fantastic person - very intelligent and very enthusiastic. She has such strong convictions and belief in this therapy for only one reason. She has seen - and continues to see - what it is doing for her in her life. And after all this time she continues to see improvements - certainly she is not getting any worse. Can we ask for more? I wish her all the best and more and more success and improved health.

Day 693 - 9:39am - March 26, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started high up and stung 3x on the outside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee. Then, 2x on each calve and 1x on each foot - just above the large toe.

The weather is still quite cold here in upstate NY but we are expecting much improved temperatures next week. I can feel Spring in the air - and those "lazy, hazy days of summer" & swimming in the pond - only a few months away.

Hadn't stung that much earlier this week so that the sting session this morning felt real good and energizing. That seems to always be the case. It's never disappointing.

Here's an e-mail from Bob and his wife K with their experience using the Bee Hotel. They write:

". . . We keep 400 bees at a time in the hotel. We actually have 2. Each time
Dick delivers bees, he takes the old one back and cleans it. There is a
certain amount of mortality (therefore wasted bees). I'm thinking about
leaving the hotel open on the porch in the summer to see if that cuts
down on the mortality. Generally the bees last us about 6 weeks. I
feel it is worth the investment, as there is no one here with the
knowledge or the time to tend hives. This is handier for us and Dick. . . " Rob & K
rob1mit9@webtv.net
 
 

Another positive report regarding that Bee hotel of Dick Johnson's. Rob, I know, has been having a bit of a difficult time over the past several months - but he perseveres and continues to sting. And it seems as though that Bee Hotel is really making it all do-able for him. It's hard enough of a regiment to just get stung. Making the bees as accessible as possible makes a whole lot of sense. I wish Rob lots of good luck and good health.

Day 697 - 8:47am - March 30, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning down the sides of my torso, my shoulders, arms and elbows.

Started and stung 4x down each side. Then, 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 1x on each bicep and finally 1x on the outside of each elbow.

The snow is melting, melting, melting and although the pond is still a frozen mass it's only a week or two away before it too melts. Katrina went down to fetch bees for me from the hives and they appear to be getting more active. Spring is springing!

Easter this week and Passover too - and we will be having company over for the Seder meal tomorrow evening. Again, thanks to the Bee Venom Therapy, the energy and desire is there to do what I want - to spend quality time with friends and family. No matter how much I want to be totally and completely whole and healed from this "dis-ease" I am forever grateful for what I do have and for what I can do.

Here's an e-mail from Marcia. She is "standing by her man". Marcia writes:

". . . my boyfriend also does beestings 3 times a week, monday wednesday and
friday. sometimes we do see a difference and sometimes we don't.he does
20 stings each day the stings are done. he is 53 yrs. old. doctors have
tried many different types of medications. beta seron, avonex, and
copaxone. the side effects seem to be very hard on john.do you have any
helpful hints reguarding any other treatments concerning ms.we live in
central ohio and there seems to be a lot of people ending up with
diagnosis of ms. .. . . any info or input
you could give us would be deeply appreicated. i am desparate to help
john - i am a nurse myself and it is very overwelming
not to be able to help john get better. . . It
always is encouraging for us to hear from someone else who is
experiencing the same difficulties,but continues not to give up. . . " Marcia

"Marcia Grove" <mglpn@hotmail.com>

Marcia sounds like a very committed women and John is a very blessed man to have a partner such as her. But I understand how she feels - the two of them - out there on their own. Well, that's what support is all about. If you've got the time and inclination perhaps drop them a line. They seem to be very "good" people.
 
 

Day 700 - 9:42am - April 2, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, legs, feet and hip.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the inside of each knee. Then, 2x on each calve and 1x on each foot - above the large toe. Finally, 1x on each hip.

The days are getting warmer and overall I`ve been feeling pretty good. Had a great Passover Seder with friends and family. The sting session this morning was real good too. Really stimulated my legs and got me up and "schlepping".

Coleen, physical therapist, was here this morning and this was really good too. I feel that whatever exercises I do, whether alone or with Coleen's help, is really important and helpful. If nothing more than just loosening up all those parts of my body that are usually just asleep. Coleen is fantastic because with her assistance - holding down my feet so I don't slip & slide - I can do push ups and sit ups for example, that I just can't seem to manage by myself.

Now, here's a letter from Wayne - a great supportive husband. Wayne writes:

" . . .We are building up to a total of 12 hive's this year and
planning on a 100 next year. And should be able to send Bee's to people
at a decent price in the very near future. I only wish that every one
who needs the help of the little girls could have their on hives and not
have to rely on bee's being ship in to them.
Have A Super Day
Wayne And Linda

Wayne Sanders <csad@InfoAve.Net>

Wayne is a super guy and so supportive of his wife. He's actually taken up beekeeping just to be closer to the therapy process himself. What a guy! He's also sent me the most adorable photo of his dog Patches down by his hives - but I seemed to have lost it somewhere in my computer. If I can dig it up, I will post it. But in the interim I've been meaning to post this because I am so moved by this man's devotion to his wife Linda. Linda is a very blessed woman indeed.
 
 

Day 703 - 1:42pm - April 5, 1999 EST

Stung 20x this morning on my shoulders, neck, back legs and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down each side of the spine. Then, 1x on each buttock. Then, 2x on the front of each thigh and 1x on each calve. Then, 2x on each foot - 1x on the crease and 1x on the out-side of each foot.

Had an appointment this morning with Dr. Jim - a 6-month check-up. All is well and he once again recommends that I continue to sting. As far as he can tell - I seem to be holding my own. And that's without any other major medicine to speak of. This is good. Very good. But Dr. Jim says that in truth, only I can tell how I'm faring. And all I can say is, when I get stung I can feel my body awaken. And I don't feel any worse. So I'll just "keep on keeping on." But I am so looking forward to swimming again in the pond. It's coming.

Now, I just wanted to add to my last entry. You must check out Summer's Honey Ranch on-line. This is Wayne & Linda's 10 year old granddaughter's web page on and about her experience with honey bees - and it is really adorable and inspiring. I enjoyed it so much and I know how proud Wayne & Linda must be of of Summer. And for good reason!

Day 706 - 10:52am - April 8, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on y knees, calves, feet, hands and lower back.

Started and stung 4x on each side of each knee. then, 1x on each calve and 1x above each large toe. Then, 1x on each side of the lower back and finally 1x on each hand between thumb and index finger.

Woke up this morning to the chirping of birds. The pond is fully melted and Spring is becoming more and more of a reality. Too cold to get into the pond as of yet - still in the 50's & 60's and low 30's and 40's at night - but it's coming.

Forgot to mention that when I'd visited Dr. Jim on Monday I'd also taken that blood test to determine whether I have that HHV-6 Herpes virus. There has been some studies that point to this virus as being the culprit of MS and de-mylenation. If this is the case - and one does test positive to having thet virus - there are drugs available to combat it. These drugs are supposedly not "invasisve" type drugs and are not devastating to the rest of your body. Anyway, I'll get the results soon and if I do test positive to the virus I will explore the options more deeply and pass on any information I learn.

Here's an e-mail taht my friend John had sent me a while ago regarding this HHV-6 deal. John writes:

". . .I seem to think I remember you saying your Doc said you needed to first
test for HHV-6 if you were going to try that scheme. Did you? My venom
buddy, Mary Eleanor decided to see about it. (It is so much easier when
your family is all MD's) Any how she tested over 300 per what I don't know
but normal of the population is less than ten. So she is now trying the
HHV-6 anti-viral medicine with the complete support of her husband and son
both MD's.

My take is that if this can check the deterioration we will be able to
restore our nervous system with the bees and I will use acupuncture too.
Barry, we will win!. . . "John Brackman <jbrackman@fidnet.com>

John is always on top of things and always prodding and reminding me to "take care of business". That's what support is all about, really. A gentle nudge. Perhaps there are others who have some more knowledge on the subject?

Day 710 - 10:22am - April 12, 1999 EST

Stung 6x this morning on my back.

Started and stung 3x down either side.

Well, just when it seemed like warmer weather was here to stay, it snows about 3" yesterday. I'm sure it will melt fast but there is a layer of white stuff outside my window this morning. I'd planned to send the kids out for more bees yesterday afternoon but it didn't happen. So I used the last few bees remaining in last week's jar. And it's okay. It's important to just keep some venom in the system and varying the number of stings per session is still a good thing.

Here's something I'd been thinking about. I wonder how many dealing with MS has had their tonsils removed. I know I'd had mine taken out at a young age. I'd been talking with a friend of mine this weekend who suffers from diabetes. He'd heard that there was some discussion that the immune system may be connected with the tonsils.The doctors want to remove them from his son - and he has protested.i know taht in my family of 3 sisters and a brother I'm the only one with MS and without tonsils. Hmmm.. .

Day 713 - 9:15am - April 15, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my thighs, legs, calves and arms.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x behind and on top of the crease of each knee. Then, 1x on each calve. Then, 1x on each bicep and finally, 1x on the outside of each elbow.

Well, the sun's coming out - the snow has melted - and the days are in the 50's again so Spring is back in the air.Sent Katrina down to the hives to fetch some bees and she came bck with a nice jarful. Missed not stinging my legs last session and have been feeling a bit tighter than usuasl. Perhaps it's the change of weather. Especially when it's cold and then warm and then cold again in a very short period of time. Like those changes of season.

My daughter, Katrina (13) will be leaving this afternoon to Miami to visit my sister. She's so excited. I'm missing her already.

Here's a letter and photo from my cyber-friend John. John writes:
 

". . .This a photo taken a few minutes ago. I am now resting with a beer. I was not fond of this job when I was able; I am less so now but as you repeatedly remind us, with stings we still function. Yes, I stung this morning. You asked if I had tonsils. No, out at about five years old. Well, back to the grass cutting-- formerly two hours; now two days but with venom I can still do it.. . ." John <jbrackman@fidnet.com>

What a great letter and photo. John always makes a lot of sense and always keeps his eye on the ball - so motivating and inspiring. Yes, a picture is indeed worth a thousand words. John's been at it for a while now and as you can see, he' commited. And for good reason!

Day 717 -11:35am - April 19, 1999 EST

Stung 16x on sarurday morning on my shoulders, buttocks, legs and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 1x on each buttock and 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calve. then 1x on the crease of each foot and 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Had spent a few days this weekend at my good friends Bob and Nita and had decided to have a sting session on Saturday morning before leaving. This was good and gave me a bit more energy to get to Bob's and enjoy the weekend. But the 21/2 - 3 hour drive got me feeling a little tight by the time we arrived. I guess that "oomh" that I get just after the session had gone. But, I did manage to climb the 6 steps up into the house. No, it wasn't pretty - but I did make it up and in. And was it well worth the effort! We had a great time and what a beautiful old Victorian house it is. Just grand!

Also received word from those documentary filmmakerts that the video about BVT is complete. They will be sending me a screening copy soon. Will let others know what it's like and how and when and where it might be aired.

Day 719 -10:55am - April 21, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my shoulders, back, hands and calves.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down either side of the spine - approx. 3". Then, 1x on each hand between thumb and index finger. Finally, 1x on each calve.

Have been feeling pretty good this week. Perhaps too stiff but lots of energy. The sun is out this morning and I am looking forward to spending a good amount of time outdoors today. No swimming yet - water's too cold. But soon.

I've been receiving some e-mail lately regarding "Incline Therapy". Has to do with the importance of gravity and health. There seems to be a lot of people who are experimenting with raising the head of their bed 6" - and experiencing some dramatic results.

Here's a letter from my cyber-friend Fred - with a link. Fred writes:

http://www.InsideTheWeb.com/mbs.cgi/mb405491
". . . Anyway that message board link has some interesting things to say.I plan
to redo my bed to make it a more permanent instead of the pillow
routine.
I have noticed some improvement but reserve further comment until more
time has lasped. . . " "Fred Soly" <zappedms@vtc.net>

Well, I don't know much about this yet - certainly can't hurt. I'll be continuing to sting but I'm always open to new "non-invasive" type therapies. So I'll be reading up on this. Remember, there isn't any known cause or cure for this "dis-ease" so I'm leaving no stone unturned.

Day 722 -1:05pm - April 24, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this afternoon on my thighs, knees, legs and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the outside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee. Then, 1x on aech calve and 2x on each foot - 1x behind the outside of each ankle and 1x on the crease of each foot.

Have a dinner party to go to this evening so I'd decided to hold off my stinging session until today. It'll require a little bit of "schlepping" so I thought I'd make the most out of what I've got. The bees.

My daughter Katrina, 13, will be returning home tomorrow from a 10 day vacation in Miami visiting my sister.. Oh, I'm sure she'll have lots to talk and tell about. My cyber-friend Ray writes and says, "If you think you miss her in Miami, just wait till she gets married." But I always thought it was something like, "gaining a son-in-law."

Here's a letter from Becky whose husband Dan is dealing with MS. Becky writes:

". . . I am from Hermann, Missouri. First of all thank you for your site, it is
probably the reason I finally convinced my husband, Dan to begin BVT.
We have been investigating BVT for about a year, but your positive
attitude and up beat page have helped convince us it is something we
have to try. I have also talked to John Brackman, he is a judge in
the county where we live (small world isn't it), he was very
supportive before we began and we are looking forward to talking to
him now that we have started. We just began last week, and Dan is
tolerating the stings well. But he is itching like mad and of course
he can't scratch them (YET). Do you have any suggestions to help this
problem. We have tried Benedryl creme and it help briefly. Thanks

Becky"Becky Wright" <bwright12@hotmail.com>

I wanted to post this letter so that others might share with Dan and Becky some of their own experiences and methods of making this experience as "do-able" as possible. Going at it alone is not easy and support is very important. And I know that there are a lot of great folks out there who can share some vital information - like my cyber-friend John.Personally, I want to wish Dan and Becky all the best in their venture and hope and pray for their health and success.

Day 726 -10:55am - April 28, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs and legs and side.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the inside of each knee. Then 2x on each calve and finally 1x on each side.

Have been feeling pretty good this week and the weather is beautiful - cool and stable. Just not warm enough yet to swim.

Received the results from that blood test I'd taken last week. indeed, it seems that I am susceptible to that HHV 6 Herpes virus and Dr. jim has offered me a prescription for a 7 day anti-biotic. I plan to fill the prescription this week and see what happens. I know there has been nothing proven in regard to all this but, as the Quakers say, "when you pray, move your feet." That means doing what I can with what there is. And I'm game to try things that are "non-invasive".

Of course, I will continue to sting. Because the stinging is the one thing that continues to prove its worth every session. Matter of fact, I'm awaiting a telephone call from my cyber-friend Wally. He is going to interview me for a book he is writing about folks like me - whatever that is. Should be interesting and you can be sure I'll mention the bees.
 
 

Day 729 -11:12am - April 30, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my lower back, thighs, knees, calves and ankles.

Started and stung 2x on the outside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each kne and 1x on each calve. Then, 2x on each foot - 1x behind the inside ankle & 1x atop the foot just above the large toe. Then, 2x on each side of the lower back.

Started on that anti-viral medication - Valtrex- prescribed by Dr. Jim, yesterday - and it's too early to see what effect it has - if any. The theory is that if indeed a herpes Virus is what brought on this "dis-=ease" -= and it is still alive in my system - then ridding it should halt the progression. So we'll see. Would be nice to experience some real improvements as well. Will keep you posted.But in the interim, these bee stings continues to make the difference in the quality of my life.

The weather here is grand and my family - parents & 2 of my sisters - are planning to come upstate here and visit with us tomorrow. I look forward to their visit - haven't seen my folks since last summer.I just don't travel all that much.

Had a Physical Therapy session with Coleen this morning - after stinging - and it was very good. Had lots of energy and once again Coleen commented on the extreme difference there is on the days that she works with me after I've stung. I was feeling nice and loose.

Now, here's a joke my son Gavin (15) left for me and insisted I pass along. He's really into computers. Gavin writes:

". . The residents of Silicon Valley are more confused than usual after a
billboard campaign by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of
America used this line in an ad slogan.

"MS: It's not a software company."

Exploiting the fame of a certain company to draw attention to an
altogether worthier cause. Requests to comment on the campaign have
been met by a surly silence by Microsoft which doesn' t relish the
association of ideas, but is painfully aware that it can' t afford to
appear insensitive over such an issue.

Seasoned IT professionals will have no trouble telling the two MS's
apart:

One is a debilitating and surprisingly widespread affliction that
renders the sufferer barely able to perform the simplest task.

The other is a disease. ..." Gavin@gilbertsville.com

Day 733 -10:54am - May 4, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my chest, neck, back, arms and wrists.

Started and stung 4x down either side of the spine. Then, 1x on each side of the neck. Then, 1x on each side of the chest. Then, 1x on each wrist - palms down.

Ooh, hadn't stung many of these areas in some time and they certainly did burn. I don't use any ice or anything, just sting and move on as rapidly as possible. And I have to credit my wonderful wife Carol. She has become a real master at this moving right along with me at quite a clip.

Had a really great weekend. Got to see my folks and sister and her new 3 month old daughter, Sarah. The weather was nice and somewhat warm (70 degrees). We sat under the trees and some friends stopped by, we had lunch with the and talked and . . . this is what is all about, isn't it? It's what the bee stinging is all about - being able to have the energy to live life in a qualitative way. And yes, I want more - and I'll never give up trying to walk as much as I can. But I must remember that life goes on - making the most of what I do have - what I am blessed with and with what I am able to do.

Still taking the Valtrex - anti-viral drug - not feeling anything in particular - but not really supposed to. Hopefully it will add to stopping the progression of the "dis-ease".

Here's an e-mail from Robin who has been stinging for quite some time. She offers some more information on the "Virus" subject. Robin writes:
 

". . . Ive been stinging for about 2 years now and Im sure it has contributed to the stability of my condition. I was very interested to read that you took the HHV6 test and showed positive in your results. As you probably know, ~ 90% of the entire adult population carries this virus in an inactive state. People with active MS very, very often test positive for active HHV6. Please let your website visitors know about the Herpes Diagnostics website http://hhv6.com/where they can get more info. Also the Harvard/Mass General MS Forum shares information
found on this virus. There is a lot of work being done centered around the MS/viral connection and it is VERY promising. As soon as I have the cash, Ill be getting tested, too. Sting on. -R "Robin Haine" <robo1@spa.net>

Great letter from a smart lady who is "moving her feet" and doing what she can with what there is.
 
 

Day 736 -10:54am - May 7, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x atop each knee. Then, 2x on each side of each calve and finally 1x atop each foot just above the large toe.

Well, the weather here is really great and I hope to be back swimming in he pond by next week.Rainy but warmer.

Want to just take a minute here to realize that it is now 2 years since I've started on this journey of Bee Venom Therapy. People ask me all the time, "Well, what do you think? Has it helped?" Well, I can honestly answer that it has well been worth every sting. No, it hasn't been easy and it requires a real commitment. And of course there are times when you just don't want to do it. I mean, man, who in their right mind wants to be stung - 12 or 16 or 20 times? Not I! But after every session - after having been stung and I "feel" the difference in my system - the warmth, the easing up of the tightness and the ability to stand up and "schlepp" around a little is there - I know how good a thing this therapy has been and continues to be - for me. And if - literally - it wasn't such a "pain" I'd sting every day. I don't need a blind or double-blind test to convince me of how well this works. I am just grateful for the knowledge and to the people who've turned me on to all of this and to those family and cyber-friends who support me in all of this. I am blessed.

I don't know what things would have been like had I not stung. We all know that with this "dis-ease" things can go either way. But in these past 2 years I definitely feel that I've kept things somewhat at bay. AND, that's pretty much all I've been taking - other than vitamins and such,
 
 

Day 740 -10:45am - May, 11 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my sides, thighs, knees and calves.

Started and stung 4x down either side. Then, 1x atop each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on the inside of each calf.

I've taken the last of the Valtrex - anti-viral medication - and I hope that it does what it's supposed to do. Stop the progression - if MS is a viral thing. If not, not. But it was worth a try. And now. . . I'll continue to sting. Still a little too chilly for me to begin to swim. in the pond. Mid 60's. But towards the end of this week it should be in the mid-70's.

A number of folks have been continuing to experiment with that Bee Hotel. There continues to be pretty positive results. Here's a letter from my friend Wally. He writes:

" . . .I recently purchased a �Bee Hotel' from Dick Johnson
(re: his ad in various BVT publications). I essentially was having
real problems keeping the bees alive. The whole first double batch
(200-400, who knows...they wouldn't sit still to be counted:) died
within 4 to 5 days.

The problem wasn't the Box or the care procedures...it turned to be the
local tap water used to make Dick's prescribed sugar syrup for feeding.
My local water is laced with Chlorine, plus a touch
of Formaldehyde (!) to keep bugs away...and the bees wouldn't touch it
(would you?) So I tried distilled H20 and the latest bunch of bees have
been munching to their hearts delight.

I wholeheartedly recommend Dick's Bee Hotel and sugar syrup concoction
... but make sure to check your water.. .Wally <wallass@rocketmail.com>
 
 

A glowing recommendation from a very smart and shrewd individual. Wally was together enough not to "throw out the baby with the bath-water" - but to persevere and figure it out. The remarkable thing about the Bee Hotel is that hundreds of bees seem to survive for months at a time. Pretty outrageous. Each one is hand-crafted by Dick Johnson - a beekeeper - who stands behind each Hotel he sells. And, I'd suggest bottled water for Wally. Formaldehyde?

Day 742 -12:33pm - May, 13 1999 EST

Stung 8x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the outside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on the inside of each calf. Finally, 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Feeling real good with lots of energy. Have been doing lots of work designing web pages and sites and I have to say that without the bees I don't think I'd have all that much "oomph". No walking isn't everything and I must remember that.

The weather here is getting better and better and by this weekend it will definitely be warm enough to start swimming. Still a bit cool but it should be in the 70's by Saturday.

John McCoy, the beekeeper from Franklin MT. who keeps his hives here on my property and allows me to use the bees, was here yesterday to check on his hives. Well, they didn't do all that well over the winter. Three hives were lost. I feel a little guilty but there wasn't much I could have done. So now I've got eight hives out back - unless he wants to add some more.

Day 746 -11:58am - May, 17 1999 EST

Stung this morning on my hips, thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung on each hip. Then, 2x on the sides of each thigh and 1x on each knee. Then, 1x on each calf and 2x on the sides of each foot.

Well, this weekend I finally made it into the pond. Very cold - but very refreshing and invigorating. Only swam a few laps but will increase the number slowly. Never want to over-do it. The mind is always willing - but the body has final rule.

Decided this weekend to put a call through to Charles Mraz, father of Bee Venom Therapy. Had never spoken with him before but Dick Johnson had called that morning, the beekeeper who makes those Bee Hotels in which bees seem to be able to survive for weeks at a time, and he'd insisted that I call Charles and introduce myself. So I did.

Wow, what a nice, pleasant and coherent individual - especially at 93 years of age. He was very open about himself and we chatted for about a half an hour or so.

"MS," he said, "Oh, that's a wicked disease. Oh boy. But. . . you feel that it is helping?"he asked. "Yes," I answered. "Very much so. But I want more." He chuckled. "You've got to experiment and see what works for you. Don't stop trying to sting in new and different places." And that's what I do. He was really interested in hearing about me and my personal experience with bees and what I feel the bee venom does & and has done for me. I asked him if he thought if after 2 years of stinging I would still see any further improvements. "I'd say if you feel that it has stopped the MS from progressing - that's pretty darn good!" And he's so right, of course. And finally I asked him where he thought the best places were to sting - for me. "I'd say," he answered, "wherever you feel that it's numb." Makes sense to me because those stings certainly wake things up.

Charles Mraz's phone # is 802-388-2995. Call if you like. He's happy to chat and make suggestions as to how and where to sting. To me, it was wel worth the "dime". And let him know that you got his number off of my journal. He'll like that.

Day 749 -9:54am - May, 20 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning down my sides, elbows and hands.

Started and stung 4x down each side - from below the armpit to the waist. Then, 1x on the outside of each elbow and 1x on each hand - between thumb and index finger.

Been doing a lot of work on the computer this week and my hands have been feeling more tight and numb than usual. Figured it's a good opportunity to sting them. Always important to move those sting sites around less the body becomes to accustomed to it in any one particular area.

Well, the weather has warmed up but after that first day of swimming I haven't gone back in. I guess it's still a bit cool when the wind blows and the temperatures don't get above 70 degrees. Or am I just looking for an excuse? I feel that the exercise is very important and I should force myself to get in that water regardless as to the temperature. Besides, coolness only invigorates me and I feel so great afterwards. Still. . .

People have been writing and asking me about that anti-biotic herpes medicine I'd taken a few weeks ago. All I can say is , I feel pretty much the same. But if it is doing anything, it's keeping the "dis-ease" from progressing.
 
 

Day 753 - 10:01am - May, 24 1999 EST

Stung 10x this morning on my hips, thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 1x on each hip. Then 1x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calf. Finally, 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Had a pretty good weekend although the weather has been somewhat rainy. The few times I've been able to get into the pond and swim have been wonderful. And it's only the beginning of the season. I am so looking forward. And I have been feeling pretty strong too.

Took the kids to see Star Wars this weekend. Not that I really wanted to see the movie - although it was pretty good despite the hype - Gavin (15) and Katrina (13) really wanted me to go see it with them. So, I took the scooter and we went. Of course, I would have preferred to have walked all the way but it was way too far, too much for me to do. But again, I must remember, walking isn't everything and thanks to the bees I had the energy AND the desire to go to town and spend the time with my kids. This is very important and meaningful - to me - in my life. Being involved with life as much as is possible.
 
 

Day 756 - 10:30am - May, 27 1999 EST

Stung 11x this morning on my sides, hips, thighs and belly.

Started and stung 3x down either side. Then, 1x on each hip. Then, 1x on the front of each thigh and finally 1x just below the belly button.

Katrina, 13, went out yesterday afternoon to fetch some bees. She was wearing a pair of "baggy" jeans and wasn't very careful. I've warned her that she must tuck those pants into her socks - easpecially now that the hives are more active. Anyway, 2 bees flew up her pant leg and stung her on her thighs."Ouch" - but what a trooper she is. She whined a little looking for sympathy but was very cool. Only problem for me was that she only brought back 11 bees. Oh well, they'll do I suppose.

Have continued to feel pretty good and the weatherman promises really nice swimming weather this weekend. So I look forward to getting into the pond and getting into a "groove". Summer is here!

Here's a letter from a very supportive woman whose brother is dealing with this "dis-ease". Jessica writes:

". . . i'm jessica and have been briefing through your story. my brother,
who lives in seattle, has ms and just had another attack which has taken
most of his sight and energy. he has tried some drug therapies but has
quit them all stating that they don't work. he is not very open minded
to any treatments but was somewhat interested in learning more about
bvt. so, i am gathering as much as possible for him. i am going to
seattle this weekend to help him . . . his entire family lives on the east coast and he
really need to be closer to us.

he is very depressed, he says that going out and going
to the doctor just reminds him of his disease. ???go figure???like
sitting in a room all by yourself everyday doesn't. maybe it will be
better if he moves over here. at lease we can try to get him out with
us. i think he would go out if he didn't have the "bladder realated
problems" he refused treatment for that too...or at least only tried it
for a short time try. stubborn-yes, but i am still going to try. he is
29 and was dx four years ago.

did you have any sight problems? he is leagally blind in one eye and
20/400 int he other (glasses don't help since it is nerve damage
causing the problem) does bvt help with sight problems?

do you know anyone in Tacoma or Seattle who can assist with the bvt. my
brother and i are starting it this weekend but he needs someone to help
after i leave.???? . ..

his phone number is 253-661-0141 Cord Ferrari if anyone in that area is
willing to help or even does it professionally for fee. he was going to
come back but wants to see if he can handle this out there instead. he
said he will be happier if he tries to stay. . . how could we findsomeone outthere who can help?

. . . " Jessica <Jessica_Ferrari@med.unc.edu>

I've written to Jessica and she is now with her brother in Seattle. I've shared with them as much information as I have been able. They are very anxious to start and to hear from others. Perhaps there is someone out that way that can lend Cord a hand - just to get him started. In general, any support you send there way would be great too. So much going on. so much hope. This is the beginning for these folks. I know that Bee Venom Therapy has made a major difference in my life. I wish him all the best.

Day 760 - 11:16am - June 1, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet and hands.

Started and stung 2x on the inside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the inside of each knee. Then, 2x on the back of each calf and 1x atop each foot. Finally, 1x on each hand - between thumb and index finger.

Well, the weather here was very much like that around most of our country - except S. Dakota. Very hot. On Monday I used the electric scooter to travel down the roads a piece to visit with my artist friend Irwin. But it was a long trip - about 7 miles - and the heat made it feel even longer. It was probably more than I should have attempted - considering the `90 degree temperature. When I got there I needed lots of ice - to cool down. So, I did it although I'm not quite sure why. Perhaps because I just want to do what I want - when I want. And we all know - that is not always possible. So when there are "things" that I think I can accomplish - I just throw caution to the wind and go for it. Not that these things are of any great accomplishment. But I keep reminding myself - all I'm doing is Bee Venom Therapy. And I want to "keep on keeping on".

And when I finally got back home I just "fell" into that cool pond, did some laps and energized myself. Other than my hands feeling a bit too tight from "squeezing and depressing" the mechanism on the handle bars for hours at a time - I feel pretty good.

Day 763 - 10:33am - June 4, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my sides, neck, elbows and wrists.

Started and stung 4x down either side. Then, 1x on either side of the neck. Then, 1x on the outside of each elbow and finally 1x on each wrist - palms down.

I've started back into my routine of swimming in the pond again - as often as the weather permits as many times during the day that I can. After the long winter it takes a little more effort to "push" on and swim as much and aws long as I had been. But it's always the same. After I'm in the water for 5-10 minutes and I've done a couple of laps - I feel so good and energetic. Part of it, I know, is the coolness but another part of it is just the stretching of the body - stretching it in ways that I just don't do otherwise.

And I'm in touch with the humidity too. When it's humid out my whole body just feels "heavier" sluggish. But when it's dry out, the body is "lighter". And the Bee Venom Therapy, well that just gives me the desire and ability to just do it. Because after a sting session - at least for a few hours - I feel my body awake and alive.
 

Day 767 - 11:04am - June 8, 1999 EST

My last stinging session was a dandy.

Katrina, my 13 year old, and I went out yesterday afternoon to fetch a jarful of bees. Whoa! Were we in for a surprise. The bees were all out on top of the hives and Katrina said, "Hey, this is easy. I'll just scoop up a bunch - easy!" Well, easier said than done.

After dipping in on them, she came running up the incline with dozens of bees buzzing all about. Unsettled by all the activity, she called out, " Pop! You'd better get back! I'm going into the pond!"

It was very hot yesterday, about 90 degrees, and you know how daring kids can be. So - in she went - clothing, sneakers, gloves, hat and all - tossing the jar of bees in my direction. I missed the toss and watched it roll in the thick grass before coming to a stop about 10 feet away. I rode over in the electric scooter and picked up the jar - and to my surprise, the lid tumbled off! In her haste into the water Katrina hadn't secured the cap successfully onto the jar.

So there I sat with a jar full of angry bees in my hand, it's cover resting a few feet away in the grass. My mind raced surmising my predicament as more bees shot up & out from the jar buzzing around me with a vengeance. Moving fast, I leaned down, scooped up the cap, wedged the jar of bees between my thighs so as to be able to screw the lid back into place and at the same time use my other hand to depress the "speed - control" lever on the scooter and race for the cover of some trees. As I scooted across the yard, twisting the lid back into place as fast as I was able - which wasn't fast enough - a good number had by now hoplessly tangled themselves up in my thick, wavy hair. The sound of "buzzzing" played stereophonically in my head as the familiar "pinch" of the stingers locked onto my scalp. For about 15 minutes I raced around the property - our Beagle puppy, Tonto, racing and yelping in my tracks fending for himself. What a scene it was.

In the end, I received about 5 or 6 stings on my scalp and several on my hands and arms. In 2 years I'd never had such a natural and "organic" session. Nor had I had that many stings on my scalp. My head is a bit sore this morning but other than that - I feel pretty good.
 

Day 770 - 09:43am - June 11, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves ankles and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calf. Then, 1x on the outside & behind each ankle and finally 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Well, today's session was far more normal than the previous one. Hadn't stung my legs in a bit and I can feel the difference. And it was good.

Having problems with our well this all week so water has been at a premium. We're still not back to normal - after days and expenses.

Coleen, the physical therapist who usually comes once a week so as to assist me in exercising parts of my body (legs and feet) that I have a hard time exercising on my own - will be here tomorrow after a 3 week absence. Boy, have I missed her! She's really fantastic (and reasonable) but she will be moving out of state this September. I'll have to come up with someone new (I hope) or discover other methods of exercise. Come winter, I won't be able to swim either.

Here's a letter from Debbie - a person in search of answers. Debbie writes:

". . . My name is Deb, I'm 44 yrs old and I was diagnosed 4 yrs ago this Summer
(turning 40 was, indeed, traumatic!). I was doing very well, mostly
numbness, until November of last year, when I had a 'real' exacerbation.
All of it...no energy, no balance, my legs quit working, buzzing ears, loss
of some hand coordination, etc. I'm a bit of a naturalist (not anti-drug,
by any means), and I am having a real hard time with the thoughts of
steroids and I certainly don't like the odds of the MS meds out there...they
just seem to effect 'all' of the body...I'm so healthy in every other way,
that to mess with my immune system just doesn't feel right. Sooo, I did not
go to the Dr. I knew what they would prescribe and I wanted to see if my
body could rebound on it's own. It took awhile, but most of my energy has
returned, tho I tire easily now, 80% of my balance is back...I feel nearly
normal except for my legs. I can no longer go on my long walks...about 3-4
blocks is the limit. And the last couple of weeks, both legs are very stiff
and sore (spasticity, I'm sure). I did experience some stiff/soreness
before last Winter, but nothing like this......So, here I am, back to trying
to decide where this dis-ease is taking me....

Here's the deal I have in front of me...My husband and I have just moved to
the country... My husband is very much a believer in
alternative meds. .. message, acupressure, etc... He has decided to start keeping our own bees neadlessto say, I was NOT excited about being stung and I get real nervous when I'm
told I'll have to continue indefinitely. Especially when my symptoms did
not really interfere with my life. Not the case any longer. So, now the
bee therapy seems like something to think about....I have times when
self-doubt attacks and I think that maybe I'm stupid not to do as the Dr's
want, and go on the MS drugs . . . My
husband would be willing to do the stinging (I, too, have been blessed with
a supportive family). Do you think I have time to wait?? I'm torn, scared
and anything else you can relate to. I know the decisions are mine to make.
Since I found your web site, I don't really think I was seriously ever
considering being stung...guess I thought I wouldn't get worse. And, if I
did, seems easier to pay the big bucks and 'shoot up' the MS drug.

I'm not sure why I'm sending this....just someone to relate all this to, I
guess. And maybe someone to relate to once I decide to take this on for
sure. Sometimes you just have to respond to something, and that's what I'm
doing. Thank you for writing your diary. To 'hear' from a real person who
is doing this controversal 'treatment' is a lot different then reading the
books. . .I havesuch a hard time imagining having to 'sting' for the rest of my life...or
until a cure comes up...whichever comes first. I honostly think that is my
BIGGEST reservation....even more than the pain of the stings! Has anyone
else contacted you with similar reservations?? . . . " Deb "rdkos" <rdkos@smig.net>

A lengthy letter indeed filled with hopes and fears and doubts and indecisions. Sound familiar? Sure, because Deb is a "real" person facing all those things any normal-minded individual would be confronted with in a similar situation. But the truth is - it's up to her - to all of us as individuals. Although support is so vital the decision is ultimately our own.

I know that there are many women - and men - out there that have had - and are continuing to have - fantastic results with Bee Venom Therapy. Maybe they can relate to Deb and share their positive experience with her. All in all, Deb is in quite an enviable position.
 

Day 774 - 12:13pm - June 15, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my shoulders, back and neck,

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 4x down either side of the back. Finally, 1x on each side of the neck.

The past week or so has been really fantastic for swimming. I've been going in at least once a day if not two. But the weather has cooled off a bit and is hovering in the mid-60's. Well, if the sun is out - I'll swim anyway.

And I really feel a difference. Much stronger and much more loose. And my feet seem to respond better too. Sometimes, in the water as I swim, they just stick to each other. Feel like a mermaid. But the more I sting and then swim - I feel as though I have ore control over them. More oomph, that's for sure.

But regardless how "wasted" I feel upon entering the pond, after 15 minutes I am always metamorphosed. Always. I may have to drop into the water - but I'm always walking out!

And finally, our little puppy beagle, Tonto, was just killed this morning out on the road by a pick-up truck. Carol's real upset and I'll have to deal with it with the kids when they get home from school. Oh boy. . .

Day 777 - 9:49am - June 18, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet, wrists and neck.

Started and stung 1x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calf. Then, 1x atop each foot - above the large toe and 1x on each side of the neck just below the hairline and finally 1x on each wrist - palms up.

Well, It's been raining for the past few days and this is good for our water supply and plants - especially those weeds. Hopefully this weekend should be good and dry - swimming weather.

Today is last day of school for the kids although Gavin has two "regent" exams (state exams) next week.

Bad time to have lost our puppy - we were all just getting used to him. In the end, it seems as though our cat, Pocohantis, is missing Tonto the most. They were really good pals and now she just walks around "meowing" - night & day.

My good cyber-friend Wally will be going into the hospital this week. I've been thinking about him a lot. Wally writes:
 

". . . just a quik note...just found out i'll be heading
into the hospital next week to get the baclofen pump
put in so wish me luck...i had to wait for the red
tape to clear.
hope i didn't weird you out when i told you abut the MS
shifting into high gear. you?? hell, it's weirding
ME out. too many thoughts at nite...so i just talk
to the bees...they listen you know ::))
and speaking of bees, your tale of your new method of
stinging made me chuckle...remember what i do...i
name them all then train them to heal!! (it's the
baclofen... too much baclofen!) by the way, the pump
dosage will be about 1/4 what i'm taking now cuz it
goes straight into the spinal cord. hmmm...
bee box still working well...one month and counting
and there are still a gzillion in there...
it's o'dark thirty so i'm off to bed...
bless ya guy... Wally <wallass@rocketmail.com>
 

Well, I certainly wish Wally all the luck in the world. Such a smart & great guy! He's going ahead with this thing because he just can't seem to get any kind of relief any other way. He's been dealing with this "dis-ease" for many, many years. But I'm posting this letter because with all that he's doing - and I so admire & respect him because he is doing "whatever he can with what there is" - Wally is still stinging! Why? He's stinging because he sees what the bee venom still has to offer him on a day to day basis. It may not be the entire answer for him, but it obviously is doing much in many different areas. And what about that bee hotel? "one month and counting and there are still a gzillion in there.." God bless you, Wally!

Day 781 - 1:19pm - June 22, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my back, hips and arms.

Started and stung 4x on either side of the spine - approx. 4"'s. Then, 1x on each hip and finally 1x on each arm.

The weather here is really fantastic so I am exercising and swimming in the pond every day. And I am beginning to feel the difference in just the swimming and the number of laps I am able to do. Also, much more looseness in my legs overall.

I received this e-mail from Donna after that last fiasco I had down at the bee hives. Donna writes:

". . . Wow Barry. I just have to comment after reading your latest entry. What a
tough guy you are but what can you do? Hope you counted the stings! I
could visualize the whole episode - excuse me for saying but it's kind of
humorous after the fact of course. Told Mike about it and he's in sympathy.
He still gets his own bees and a few times they have come after him.
Now-a-days he gets them early in the morning before they get too active. We
have them next door to our berry field and they are really busy pollinating!
As always enjoy your journal. . . Donna "Mike & Donna" <sweetwaterberryfarm@sierratel.com>

Well, I really appreciated this letter from these committed stingers. And I took Donna's advice and what a difference!. Katrina & I went out this morning for bees and, yes - seems like earlier in the am is an easier - a lot easier a time to mess with the hives. No problems today. Also, those bees were hotter today than usual - probably because they were really fresh and raedy for action. Anyway, I suppose as long as the kids are out of school I can get them to fetch bees in the morning when I need them.

Day 784 - 12:03pm - June 25, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet and sides.

Started and stung 2x on each thigh. Then, 1x on the top of each knee - above the kneecap. Then, 2x on each calf - on either side and 1x atop each foot. Then, 4x on the sides of my back - 2x on each side.

This morning Katrina, my 13 year old, was the one who helped administer the stings. And she was quite fantastic with it. Carol, my wife, seems to have come down with one heck of a "summer" cold - coughing, sneezing and all the rest. So Katrinna enthusiastically pitched in. She's really something - fetching bees for me & stinging and removing the stingers. I'm real proud of her.

Here is a letter from Jessica who is assisting her brother with the Bee Venom Therapy. Jessica writes:

". . . hi, how are you?? i think cord is going to stop. he just gets so sick
after the stings and he hasn't had any improvement at all. he has been
on the sting 3x week and is up to 15 stings each time. he has been on
them since the last week in may. what do you think?. . . : jess Jessica_Ferrari@med.unc.edu

Well, what can I say? I wrote back and made some suggestions but in the end it is an individual's decision.

I'm posting this letter because as much as I believe in Bee Venom Therapy the truth is - this therapy is not for everyone. Perhaps it has to do with how each person reacts to the venom on an individual basis. Or perhaps it depends on just what a person's condition is. Like I have always said, "desperate times call for desperate measures". Perhaps Jessica's brother, Cord, is in a lot better shape than he realizes.

But what's most dis-heartning - to me - is that if indeed BVT keeps the MS from progressing - as I believe it does - this therapy would be so much more beneficial to a fellow like Cord now - today - than later. But who knows. It's all so experimental and subjective. Regardless, I wish Cord all the best. Because whatever he decides to do is the "right & perfect thing" - for him.

Day 787 - 11:21am - June 28, 1999 EST

Stung 8x this morning on my sides and thighs.

Started and stung 3x down either side - starting just below the armpits. Then, 1x atop each thigh - just above the knee.

The weather here is certainly been hot and humid these past few days. Been spending time in the pond to cool off but also hanging out indoors in the air-conditioned space as well. It's really the humidity that can drain you dry. It isn't humid like this around here very often. Now I know how my dear friend Ray feels down in Florida!

Day 791 - 9:29am - July 2, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my thighs, knees. calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calf. Then, 1x on the crease of each foot and 1x atop the foot - above the toe.

Well, the heat and humidity persists and we're into the full swing of summer with the 4th of July weekend upon us. But I'm not complaining. Between the pond and the exercise that I'm getting swimming laps, I'm feeling pretty good.

I hadn't stung since Monday and my body must have been missing it. I even dreamed about not having any toilet-paper rolls and mayonnaise jars to fetch and keep them in. I awoke feeling very frustrated. Uh-oh! - am I in trouble?!

On Wednesday we all made a big trip to Cooperstown, NY so as to apply for a passport. My son Gavin (15) will be going to Israel next week to visit with my sister and her family for 3 weeks. It will be the first time he's been away for that long a period and he is really looking forward to it. And it was a long and drawn-out event in Cooperstown getting it all together - and the heat didn't make it any easier. But again, thanks to the Bee Venom Therapy - I had the energy and stamina to do what needed to be done. This made me feel very good.

Day 795 - 10:19am - July 5, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my sides, calves, and feet.

Started and stung 3x down either side. Then, 1x on each calf and 2x on each foot - 1x above the large toe and 1x above the small toe.

Woah! Talk about heat and humidity. 98 degrees here these last few days. I've been feeling pretty good but spending time either in the pond or indoors. As much as I love the sun - can't sit out in it for nore than a little bit before fatigue sets in. But I just want to say how many letters I have been receiving this summer from folks who are doing Bee Venom Therapy and have been really holding their own through all the heat and humidity. It is truely remarkable. I know the difference it makes for me.

Also, I want to welcome my good cyber-friend Wally back from the hospital. He has that new Baclofen-pump and I wish him all the best with it. And through it all, Wally is still stinging. What a smart dude! A man that is "doing what he can with what there is".

Day 798 - 12:22pm - July 9, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, calves, feet and hands.

Started and stung 2x behind each thigh. Then, 1x on each calf and 2x on each foot - 1x atop the crease and 1x just above the large toe. Finally, 1x on each hand - between thumb and index finger.

Finally, the weather here has cooled off and the cooler temperature is much more bearable. Legs have been feeling more stiff and tight than usual but when I get into the pond and swim for a while it really loosens up a whole lot. And of course, the bee stings always works for the first 4-6 hours after getting stung. Then, the next day, still feel pretty good but after 2, 3 days - need to sting again. But it always works - while at the same time keeping this "dis-eaase" under control. And that's what is most important to keep in mind when you begin to wonder . . .

Gavin, my 15 year old, took off to Israel on Wednesday and we all saw him off at the Albany airport. He'll be gone for 2-3 weeks and we'll all miss him. But what an experience it is for him. It's "growing-up" time!

And finally, check out this report entitled MS Treatment Discovered"about a local nurse on a quest to help herself and thinks she may have found a treatment that can help the hundreds of thousands who suffer from multiple sclerosis." Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Day 802 - 10:43am - July 13, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, back, arms and wrists.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 4x down either side of the back - approx. 4" from the spine. Then, 1x on each arm and 1x on each wrist - palms down,

Katrina has really been great since she's been out of school - getting the bees and stinging me as well giving Carol, my wife, a break. Really great.

Lots of bees out there now - can hear them buzzing as the day heats up.Even my friend that drop by and visit are not as nervous as they once were. But when they begin to swarm - then. . .

My good friend Wally is back from the hospital with his Baclofen pump. I'd asked him about it and how it works. He was nice enough to really open up with me. Wally writes:

". . .Because of serious MS spasm problems in my legs, my neuro thought we
should try using this pump method of delivering Baclofen, seemingly the
anti-spasm medication of choice. I concur. I was taking 50 to 60 mg.
orally everyday which is a high dosage. Somehow because of the compound
needed to deliver the drug orally, it has side-effects like drowsiness
and systemic weakness. The pump method uses roughly 1/10 the dosage as
it is fed directly into the spinal column.
To wit: The pump is surgically inserted into a pocket fashioned on the
side (my lower left just opposite the appendix). Said pump is the size
of a hockey puck and causes but a small bulge. Then a catheter is run
beneath the skin to the spine. For me, at L4 (lumbar). This location
is derived at from my MRI pictures and the neuro's hands on testing for
spasm activity. My initial MRIs showed a wide spread activity...but as
of late it had settled from L4 down, basically below my waist, and
predominately the legs. Other than that, I'm feeling quite
healthy...even after 26 years!
The surgery was rather minor...or so I am told. I wasn't there
(z-z-z-z-z- :). It took one dosage adjustment and I'm set. I'll go in
for a "fill-up" every 2-3 months.
By the way, this little $11,000 pump is controlled via an inboard
micro-computer, and adjustment is done by another computer via a
mouse-like (as in computer mouse) gadget. You Star Trek fans do realize
that makes me part of the BORG! ::))
I am more than pleased; besides it's just part of the adventure... Wally <wdudley@pop.ctctel.com>
 

I am so impressed with Wally because he really is a fighter. He is determined to make the most of what there is so as to make his life as "livable" as is possible. Wally, a writer by trade, is currently finishing up his 2nd book. He is a spokesman for the "dis-abled" in his community, and a confirmed bachlor who is living & loving life to the fullest. He is "one tough dude". And again, Wally is still a "stinger" because he knows that there is something that the bees continue to deliver.

My feeling is that Bee Venom Therapy really helps at keeping this "dis-ease" from progressing - and for some it even brings back certain functions that had been lost. This is so important because so much can go "wrong" with a "dis-ease" like MS, so why not do what you can to keep what you've got. I know Wally feels that way.

Day 805 - 9:55am - July 16, 1999 EST

Stung 10x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each knee. Then, 1x on each calf and finally 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Been feeling good and energetic but also have been feeling those tight and stiff legs.So stinging this morning on my legs and feet felt really good. It always feels good - like a release of tightness and rigidity just after stinging. Sometimes the affects last longer than other times - but it's always worth the dis-comfort.

Here's an e-mail from a really smart lady and a very committed stinger. Johanne has been at it for a while and "knows" the benefits. Johanne writes:

".. . Just thought I'd drop you a line and give you an update. It'll be 2
years in August that I've been doing BVT. Last time I saw my neuro in
April, he told me to keep doing the bees since I'm still stable.

I know the bees are helping this summer because of the very hot
temperature with high humidity we've been having since May.I spoke to
many MSer's who aren't doing BVT and they are all complaining how the
weather is really draining all their energies.

Since the start of June I've been working inside our new van. We bought
a big cargo van that must be customizes inside. My husband and I are
doing the work. It's a slow and difficult job but we should have it
completed for our August vacation. I've been doing the work all day in
all this heat and sun. Well because of the BVT, I haven't had any
relapses or fatigue.

I'm down to 16,10, 16 stings a week now and I think I'll try to go down
some more , maybe 12,10,12. We'll see. I'll be seeing my neuro again in
September.

Don't stop writting in your journal. I know it encourages many and helps
others decide to do it or not.. . " Johanne Fournier <johannef@sympatico.ca>

Johanne is a good cyber-pal and e-mail from her is what encourages me. She's doing all the right things - varying the number of stings and making it work for her. And look how she's got the energy - and desire - to do things like . . . put together a customized van so that she and her husband can go out and do even more. She's not sitting around be-moaning her fate. This is what Bee Venom Therapy is all about. It keeps this "dis-ease" under control while at the same time giving one the ability - and will - to live life to the fullest. Thanks for the support, Johanne!
 
 

Day 809 - 10:45am - July 20, 1999 EST

Stung 12x this morning on my shoulders and back and thighs.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 4x down either sidee of the back.Then, 1x on the front of each thigh. Then, upon closing the lid on the jar Carol, my wife, got stung on the tip of her index finger (not the first time she'd been stung) - & that was it. Oh, it pained her so and she brought the session to a close.. I told her it was good for her but she wasn't buying any. "It hurts! I don't know how you can stand it," she said sympathetically. Well, 12 will have to do for now.

Man, it has really been hot and humid here this past week and although overall I have been feeling pretty strong this summer - these last few days have been tough.

Went to a play Sunday night at the Franklin Theater, The Dog in the Manger, and really enjoyed it. Gavin (15) is still away in Israel so Carol, my wife, and Katrina (13) have been spending some good quality time together. But half-way through the last act the power went in the theater. The play did go on but let me tell you - it had to have been 100 degrees in there. I made it out okay but was really wasted by the experience. The day before we'd gone to an art opening at the Bloom Street Gallery. This too was a terrific event but - it was well in the 90's. Now, I'm not complaining because "thus is my lot in life", but - my point is, that without Bee Venom Therapy I don't think I'd have survived - let alone even attempted going - not in the steam bath we'd been having. Yes, it was tough but all in all it was well worth the dis-comfort and I did have a graet time.

Didn't have any bees yesterday until Katrina went down to the hives to fetch some. And it was good - very gooood! I needed it today.

Day 812 - 10:23am - July 23, 1999 EST

Stung 17x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet and hips.

Started and stung 2x on the front of each thigh. Then 2x on each knee - 1x on either side. Then, 1x on each calf and 2x atop the left foot and 1x atop the right foot. Then, 1x on each hip and finally 1x further up on each side.

I suppose I picked up where I'd left off last session - stinging the legs. Between the stinging and the swimming and Coleen (physical therapist - once weekly) I'm feeling pretty loose. Not as loose as I'd like - but at least I'm moving and doing.

Also, Charlie Mraz's (father of Bee Venom Therapy) 94th birthday is July 26th. I've heard through the grapevine that he hasn't been feeling that well recently. I certainly wish him all the best - and if I had his "snail mail" address I'd suggest sending a card. As it is, send a blessing.

Now, here is a letter from a committed stinger - a man with a message and a mission. Jorge writes:
 

" . ...Barry, Hi I hope your doing fine. I am doing well and continue to sting but
only minimally and on as needed basis. FYI, since my MS onset in 84, and
initiation of BVT in 95, I am still ambulatory and glad to be around enjoying
parts of the roller coaster ride.

The reason for this note:
After much thought, I have written a message to assist in educating and
uniting the disabled community and increase public awareness, sensitivity and support.
The theme is one of strength through unity for individuals with any type of disability.
If you will post a copy of it, that would be nice. If you don't, no problem.
Regardless, I will continuing to pursue my goals of sharing disability
public awareness and sensitivity. , , ," Jorge

THE STATEMENT
Become Pro-Active
People that are not dealing with disabilities are not aware and sensitive to
disabled individual's special needs.
We the disabled are individuals living with physically challenging disabling
conditions. Sometimes these conditions are physically obvious other times
symptoms are present without physical manifestations. These conditions
include limited physical mobility, weakness, disabling fatigue or pain just
to name a few. Many times our conditions are worsened by minimal exertion,
temperature changes or even the medications that we take, etc..
Disability effects everyone in society directly and indirectly. Modern
technology is making sure of that. People are living longer and not all are
fortunate to be a 100% physically able, individuals that once might have died
are living with disabilities and physically disabling diseases are being
prolonged, etc.
The result of that is the disabled community is growing in size. Actually,
I've heard that the largest growing minority are the disabled.
Now, I believe that the individuals in this society should accept the reality
of modern technology and unite to help the disabled. This will help in
assisting to improve the quality of life for many disabled individuals while
at the same time providing some type of social insurance just in case the
disabling experience becomes a reality.
Individuals who would like to show their support can do this by patronizing
institutions , stores, etc., that are demonstrating awareness and
sensitivity to humans that are facing life with disabilities. This support
is appreciated because providing accommodations can be expensive. The
disabled appreciate the communities support because we too have a right to
pursue activities of daily living, employment and independence.

Jorge,U2 RN with MS
 

Jorge M. Castillo
1041 Maple Street
Turlock, CA 95380
(209)667-4034
U2rFree2BU@AOL.com

Please feel free to forward a copy of this message, share with a friend or to a local editor

Well, there you have it. I can only say that I admire and respect this man very much indeed. He is doing all that he can to make this world a better place - for all of us.He doesn't have to. He could sit back and with the problems he must deal with on his own, nobody would think any less of him. But he is committed. He has the desire and energy to "do". I'm sure this has to do with his own sensibility as a man. But again, perhaps it's the Bee Venom Therapy that is giving him the ability. Good man, that Jorge!

Day 816 - 10:51am - July 27, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, back, buttocks, calves and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 2x on either side of the spine. Then, 1x on each hip and 1x on each buttock. Then, 1x on each calf and finally 1x atop each foot.

So Gavin, 15, has returned from Israel after 21/2 weeks.He had a great time with his cousins - a terrific learning experience. I asked him to go down and fetch some bees for me yesterday. But he just dragged his heels all through the morning, afternoon and evening. And in the end it was Katrina, 13, who got them for me once again. Gavin is much more apprehensive about the hives than is Katrina. In other words - he's a lot more frightened of getting stung. He's never yet been stung. . . while Katrina has been stung numerous times. Anyway, Gavin is much better at coaxing the bees out during the cold winter months - when the bees are hibernating and not at all active while Katrina - filled with energy and fearlessness - rushes headlong into the lions den. Kids, they're all wonderful but oh so different

Now, here's an email from Robert with some details: Rob writes:

". . .Barry, according to Dick [Johnson, beekeeper, inventor of Bee Hotel, supplier of bees to Robert, good friend of Charles Mraz (father of Bee Venom Therapy) & all around terrific man] Middlebury is a small place and everyone knows
Charlie.
If addressed:

Mr. Charles Mraz
Middlebury, VT 05753

it should get to him.

rob1mit9@webtv.net (Robert Mitchell)

So, for all of you who have as of yet not sent any prayers for Charles' good health - there's still time to send him a birthday greeting. He was 94 on Sunday. God bless him!

Day 820 - 9:41am - Ju;y 31, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, hips, thighs, calves and feet.

Started and stung 1x on each shoulder. Then, 1x on each hip. then, 2x atop each thigh. Then, 1x on each calf and 1x atop the foot above the ;large toe.

Well, I don't have to comment on the heat wave that's been searing across the country - from coast to coast. Bee Venom Therapy is great but still - it's important not to "push the envelope".

Now, here's an e-mail from my dear friend Donna. Donna is the one who had really sot me started on doing Bee Venom Therapy over 2 years ago. I hadn't heard from her in some time - and here's why. Donna writes:

". . . This is one of the hardest letters I have had to write in almost 7
years. However, first let me say I am so glad you are doing well. I
talked with Pat Wagner last night, it was also her birthday, and she
suggested too that I write to you because our �stingers� need to know
this from an old experienced stinger like myself!

You know that I have always burned the candle at both ends. I am strong
and a fighter and very, very hard-headed. In Dec. 98, I saw my doctor
with a minor flare and in March 99 was having a great day and he ruled
no progression once again. What you and the others didn�t know I was
working over 50 to 60 hours per week, coming in answering email until 1
to 2 in the a.m. and sleeping if I was lucky 3 to 4 hours and repeating
it all over.

I was not stinging�..goodness I could hardly find the time to do dishes
and clothes. I did not sting for over 6 months. On April 19, 99�.I
woke blind and couldn�t move. Yes, boom just like that. For the last 3
months I have been in one major flare up. Also my blood pressure was
240/140 and that�s stroke city! I have ON both eyes this went from
blindness to ok vision. I still do not read small print. A wheelchair
was added�.a walker�.a cane�The bathroom was converted into a place
where I could take a shower without help. I had full body tremors,
muscle spasms that left me in tears, and even had to learn to cath
myself. We spent 2 &frac12; months doing steroids and all the other meds for
the muscle spasms,etc BP meds, Lasix because I, from the steroids, had
pitting edema, which is horrible swelling of the legs from the knees
down, this could also have caused Congestive Heart Failure.

Now, I walk unassisted for about 20 steps. The eyes are still not back
as of Friday��I have 20/300 vision in one eye and 20/100 in the other
eye. I am very lucky because the optic nerve is still very pink front
to back. As we all know that�s a very good sign. Other than these two
little things I feel like we are now coming out of this. My muscle tone
is very good and strong and Pat told me that since I have been off the
steroids for a month to hit it (sting) hard again. I will today! I
look so forward to getting those girls again.

This was a lesson learned the hard way. In the year 2000, Feb we are
expecting our first grandchild, in May, Christi graduates with her
masters, and in June her marriage to her college sweetheart. As you can
see, I do not have time for this.

In addition my doctor decided the only way to make me put me first
(hahha) was to apply for disability, which has gone through. You know I
hate this but after all that's happened, I have no choice.

All I can add to this is please keep me in your prayers. Once again, I
will win this fight! . . ." Donna don1948@halifax.com (Donald Chandler)

Well, there you have it. There are no guarantees on this trip we're on. All I can say is, that I still believe that the best chance you have with this "dis-ease" is to just keep stinging - to at least keep some of that bee venom zipping through your body. Do I know this to be fact? No. Had Donna continued to sting once a week or once a month - would that have made the difference? Don't know. All I know is that when I sting - my body responds in a positive way. This, to me, means that for a short period of time at least, my body is doing "better".

I wish Donna all the best in the world and a speedy recovery. She is a very strong woman and has always been so supportive with everyone else in the past. She deserves only the best. And with God's help - she'll get it. I'm thinking of her often.

Day 823 - 11:42am - Aug. 3, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, sides, thighs knees and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down each side of the torso. Then, 1x high up on the side of each thigh and 1x atop each knee above the knee-cap. Finally, 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Well, the weather has really been beautiful and is expected to remain so. I have been swimming and moving in the pond a few times each day and am really feeling the difference. My arms and legs are stronger - still stiff legs except on the days that I get stung. Not thinking about the winter, that's for sure.But I am enjoying the summer - visiting with friends down the road and going places with Carol and the kids. I know that the Bee Venom Therapy makes the difference - for me.

Here's an e-mail from Cindy who can also see the difference in Bee Venom Therapy. Cindy writes:

". . . I had thought that because it's summer and with the TMJ "stuff" in question
and then also Charles Marz talking about reaching a plateau I could take the
summer off of BVT. I've always felt soooooooo much better in the summer.
(Thought I had this stupid MS under control or is it even MS???)

I made it 2 weeks. The fatigue was unbearable!!!! I missed a family
reunion and missed taking my son to Winnipeg to fly out for his UN tour. I
got real frustrated, real quick from looking at the ceiling above my bed!

I got myself another jar of bees from my friendly neighborhood Bee Guys and
lo & behold I feel like a human again. I was able to make the trip to pick
up my oldest son back at Winnipeg when he flew back. Also threw in a trip
detour for getting my other 2 boys from camp at that end of the state!

Oh well, I had really wanted to let my skin heal for awhile but I'm back at
it again. Get out the long pants and long sleeved shirts!. . ." Cindy

"Cindy Ziman" <cziman@steffes.com>
 

All right. What an obvious difference Bee Venom Therapy is making in Cindy's life. Quality of life. The ability & desire to get up and out and be involved - in life. It's often hard to realize the difference until you've stopped stinging as in the case with Cindy. But Cindy is one of those smart women who has "realized & adjusted" and what a fabulous attitude! Straight forward and determined. This takes quite a bit of courage and commitment. Very impressive. Continued good health to you, Cindy!

Day 826 - 12:09pm - Aug. 6, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my eyebrow, chin, shoulders, back, buttocks, thighs and feet.

Started with Carol, my wife, unscrewing the cap to a mayonnaise jar of freshly fetched bees and a bunch zipping out into the room. 1x stung me on the right eyebrow and another beneath my chin. Those hurt! New areas always sting more.

After regrouping, stung 1x on each shoulder and 3x down either side of the spine. Then, 1x on each buttock & 2x on each thigh and finally 1x on each foot above the large toe.

Continuing to feel good and stronger every day. Between the stinging and the daily swimming I feel as though I'm into my own personal re-hab fitness program. I now know how my cyber-friend Fred felt after the month he spent in Mexico. I know that they used the "Electro-magnetic" machinery on him and I suppose I'm employing Bee Venom Therapy. Obviously it's not the same, but the swimming and exercise is comparable. I'm really having a good run-of-it this summer. Very grateful for the weather although the drought isn't doing much for the farmers. Matter of fact, many ponds around here have really been drying up and losing its water so we've been inviting lots of folks & friends to just come swim whenever they want. Fortunately, our "B Pond" is holding its own and I'm really enjoying sharing it with everyone else.

Katrina went out this morning to fetch me some bees. She's gotten so good at it. I'll miss her next week, she'll be away at camp.

Here's an e-mail I'd received on the Apithearpy List-serve. Thought I'd post it here as well. Laura writes:

". . . Hi, my name is Laura and I've been interested in beginning BVT for my MS.
In early September I'm going to be moving to Eugene, Oregon and was
wondering if any of you might live in that area and are interested in
meeting with me to answer some questions I have about the therapy. I've
spent the last month mulling over my decision, and I'm pretty sure I want to
do it, but I need more info to convince my loved ones that it's a good idea.,. . . "Laura
"Laura J. Schwope" <Laura.J.Schwope-1@tc.umn.edu>

So there you have it. If there's someone out there in Oregon who can connect with Laura - why not? Or even if there are folks who just have the inclination to share some experiences - do it. Could make quite a difference in Laura's life.

Day 830 - 11:33am - Aug. 10, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my buttocks, thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on each buttock. Then, 2x on the outside of each thigh. Then, 1x on the outside of each kneecap and 1x on each calf. Finally, 1x atop each foot - above the large toe.

Well, the weather has cooled off quite a bit here and it has been pretty cloudyoverr the past few days. Yet, this has not deterred me. I awaken each morning, slip (literally) into my bathing trunks and remain prepared for any break in the clouds throuhout the day. Then, without hesitation, I scoot down to the pond and swim several laps always coming out feeling refreshed. As much as I may not have the "feeling" to go in - especially when the sun is not shining - every time I come out I feel so good I know I will do it again and again.

We have a Honda Accord and Carol, my wife, and I have decided that we should definitely look into buying a van - something in which the electric scooter can be easily loaded and unloaded. In this way I will be in a better position to travel and go out more. Don't know much about mini-vans and the like but today we will go out and try and learn something. Having just completed a stinging session - I'm motivated.
 

Day 834 - 8:05pm - Aug. 15, 1999 EST

Stung 13x this afternoon on my shoulders, sides, hips, arms and finger.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down each side. Then, 1x on each hip and 1x on each arm. Then, 1x on my left index finger - one escaped and I tried to catch it.

So Coleen, physical; therapist, was here yesterday and we had a really terrific session. I'd swam in the pond before working with her and was really feeling loose and fluid. But this was to be our final time together as she is moving further upstate to Potsdamn, NY to continue her studies in graduate school. To replace her will be difficult because more than anything else, Coleen motivated and assisted me in "dry" exercises (exercising out of the water). It was like we'd arrived at and created our own unique routine. I wish her well and will miss her terribly - especially as the winter and the cold months approach.

Katrina returned from summer camp yesterday and just in the nick of time. My jar of bees had been depleted and I'd just as soon wait for her return to head down into the hives to fetch some. She is that good at it.

And Carol, my wife, will be leaving in a few days for a visit with her family in Tenn. - a bit of a re-union of sorts. It is impractical for us all to go down so Carol will fly down by herself - leaving me with the children for several days. Should be interesting. Well, Carol has not been away on a vacation by herse;f without the children in many years, She deserves it.
 

Day 839 - 12:29pm - Aug. 20, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves and feet.

Started and stung 2x on each side of the thigh. Then, 2x on each side of the knees and 2x on each calf and finally 1x atop each foot.

Well, this morning I had Katrina do the stinging and she was really quite good at it. The bees in the jar were pretty calm so this was good and made it quite manageable.

The weather here has been nice too and I've still been able to swim once or twice a day. It is raining (very overcast) today and is supposed to remain this way through tomorrow as well . . . but next week promises to be another good one. I cherish each swimming day that there is.

Carol, my wife, is down in Tennessee visiting her family and will be back next week. Life is certainly a lot different without her around. The kids are good kids and good company and all but I certainly wouldn't want to be a single parent. I can not imagine how women, dealing with MS, who are single parents or not, do it. I mean, it would seem an impossibility. Just taking care of my own needs is an enormous challenge. But having the responsibility of caring for children as well - boy. Between the two of us, Carol and I are able to pass the baton but when you're on your own, man, there is no relief. Don't misunderstand me here. I am enjoying the time alone this week with my children. It's just when i imagine what life without my sweetheart would be like. . . I give thanks to the powers that be and am reminded once again how important and critical "support" is when it comes to dealing with life in general - and with this "dis-ease" in particular.

Day 842 - 10:15am - Aug. 23, 1999 EST

Stung 8x this morning on my hips, sides, thighs and calves.

Started and stung 1x on each hip. Then, 1x on each side and 1x atop each thigh. Finally, 1x on each calf.

Carol, my wife, is still visiting family in Tennessee and should be back in a day or so. Katrina helped me once again with the stinging this morning She did a great job but unfortunately got stung on her thumb. She's a real trooper.

The weather is beautiful here again so I will head down towards the pond and get in some swimming and exercise. The kids and I are going to spend most of the day today cleaning up our messes around the house before "mom" comes home. We all know how important that is. And again, if it weren't for the Bee Venom Therapy I don't think I'd have the strength or inclination to deal with any of that.

Here's an e-mail from a woman in California looking for some assistance.Cecelia writes:
 

". . . I've had the symptoms of ALS for twelve year. Experts say I shouldn't
have lived this long if I really had ALS. I've used herbal remedies
because the steriods I was given at first made me worse & I refuse
tranquilizers. I can walk but not very far. I type with my knuckle
because the right hand is badly curled & the left is too weak for much
of anything. I'm sixty-five & not ready to toss in the towel (it
wouldn't go far). There is no way I could treat myself & I'm a widow in
a senior apartment complex in the California high desert.
How do I find a Beesting therapist in California? I saw a program about
it on Knowledge TV. I'm ready to see what nature can do.
Thank you & God bless the little Beesties. Continued recovery to you.
Sincerely,. . . " "Cecelia Bilderback <picturbk@earthlink.net>

Well, here's a person who is looking for some help from anyone in her area. She's not looking for much - just a little hope. If you're close by, perhaps drop her an e-mail. It could make the world of difference.

Day 846 - 11:18am - Aug. 27, 1999 EST

Stung. 12x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet and buttocks.

Started and stung 1x on each thigh. Then, 1x above each knee. Then, 1x on each calf and 2x on each foot - 1x on the crease of the foot an 1x above the large toe. Finally, 1x on each buttock

Well, Carol, my wife, has returned from her vacation down south with her family and we are all glad to have her back. Things are just not the same without her around. Well, I don't need her to be gone to appreciate her. I'm just an old fashioned guy in love with his wife.

Have been going in and swimming all that I can but the weather has been wet and cloudy. I guess it's all a premise of what is to come - winter. I'll continue to maker the most of it while I can. But the stinging session today was great. Had been feeling tight and stiff but after the session felt much looser and energetic. No matter how I feel before stinging - whenever I'm done - I feel so much better.

Here's an e-mail from someone looking to get started on Bee Venom Therapy. Joanne writes:
 

". . . Hi my name is Joanne and i have had ms for 14 years. I have heard wonderful
things about bee therapy and what I need is to know how to get involved in
it. I am from Rhode Island and would like to know if you could refer me to
someone in my area. Most Sincerely, . . ." Joanne JoyanMc@aol.com

Simple enough. After 14 years interested in trying something new and different. If there's anyone out there from Rhode Island - would be nice. Or just a liitle support to let Joanne know there are others out there just like her. Experimenting with new therapies - not sitting back and waiting for miracles.

Day 850 - 11:11am - Aug. 31, 1999 EST

Stung 14X this morning on my shoulders, sides, buttocks, thighs and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down either side. Then 1x on each buttock and 1x on each thigh. Finally, 1x on the top of each foot.

Have still been able to use the pond & swim over the last few days although the weather has been cooler. I can feel those "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer" coming to an end. But this week things are warming up again so - I'll be making the most of things. I'm still feeling pretty fortunate because many of the other ponds are way to low for swimming. But not mine. God is good.

We are getting ever closer to purchasing that van. Some folks have written and suggested large cargo-type vans but I think we will be settling on a large mini-van like the Plymouth Voyager. There are all sorts of lifts that can be retro-fitted to get the scooter into the back. Also, seats that slide out and tilt downward for easy entrance and exiting of the vehicle. Really looking forward to this.

And I just wanted to share with you something my good cyber-friend Wally mentioned to me in an e-mail yesterday. Wally writes:

". . . SPEAKING OF STINGING, MY CURRENT BATCH [of bees] IS TWO DAYS INTO IT'S 8TH!! WEEK....GUESS JOHNWHATSHISNAME'S [Dick Johnson] BEE BOX IS DOING IT. . . " wallass@rocketmail.com

Wally is referring to that hand-crafted Bee Hotel that is supposed to keep bees alive for 2-3 months at a time. Well, guess what? It works! I am really impressed and indeed, come winter-time, this may be the item to purchase. It's only about $45 but seems well worth the expense. Dick, a committed beekeeper and a wonderful carintg and sensitive man, has told me often of his satisfied clients. Well, I'd say Wally has got to be the final word on this one 'cause Wally is no pushover.

Oh, and if you're interested in getting one of those Bee Hotels you can call Dick at 518-734-4629. Matter of fact, before hanging up, I ordered one myself.

Day 855 - 10:41am - Sept. 5, 1999 EST

Stung 16x this morning on my shoulders, sides, thighs, calves and feet.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 2x down each of my sides. Then, 2x on the outside of each thigh and 1x on the outside of each knee and 1x on each calf. Finally, 1x atop each foot.

This is the last weekend of the summer and we are celebrating it accordingly. My dear friend Bob and his wife Nita and baby girl Sofi are here for the weekend and it is great to have them. We swam in the pond yesterday, had dinner on the back patio under the stars, sipped wine and chatted into the night. We plan to go out this evening to a local theater to see a play. And stinging this morning felt like just the right thing at the right time. Loosen up some of that tightness and gives me the energy and inclination to be involved. To live life to the fullest - to the best of my ability.

Katrina went down to the hives yesterday to fetch bees and brought back a huge jarful. I had to go out and let some go - just too many - and I knew that many would never survive in that little mayonnaise jar. When we get that Bee Hotel we'll be able to keep more bees in captivity. I can't get over Wally's letter to me last week reporting on his bees going into their eighth week. Wow!
 

Day 859 - 9:22am - Sept. 9, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my neck, back, buttocks and thighs.

Started and stung 1x on either side of the base of the neck. Then, 3x down either side of the spine and 2x on each buttock. Finally, 1x on the front of each thigh.

Must have not stung on my neck and buttocks for a while - 'cause man - it really hurt today. But I'm sure it'll be well worth it. I know that stinging on the neck always makes a difference.

Can not believe how the weather has remained this mild right into September. I'm still getting the opportunity to swim in the pond and exercise. I'm very fortunate indeed.

Received a telephone call last night from my dear friend Donna Chandler - the woman who guided me through my initial introduction into Bee Venom Therapy. She herself has been recuperating really well from an exacerbation this past Fall. No doubt that Bee Venom Therapy has done - and continues to be - a miracle in her life.

Day 863 - 10:07am - Sept. 13, 1999 EST

Stung 10x this morning on my sides,elbows, arms and hands.

Started and stung 2x on each side of my torso. Then, 1x on each arm and 1x on the inside of each elbow and finally 1x on each hand between thumb and index finger.

Well, the weather is still quite fantastic here in upstate NY. The family and I spent the holidays - Jewish New Year - together and made the most of our time together. So great to be able to spend quality time with the family. And again, I must credit it all to Bee Venom Therapy. It keeps me feeling up and involved with life.

Unfortunately, I'd received an e-mail from Donna Chandler yesterday saying that Charles Mrazs' family was opting to take him off of life support at 1:00PM on Sunday. But as of 11:00PM last night, I'd received an update that he was still hanging tough. Well, after 94 years - and God knows how many bee stings - what do they expect? So as of this entry- as far as I know - he is still with us.And my prayers are still with him.

UPDATE:

Received another telephone call this afternoon. Charles Mraz had passed away at 7:30 this morning Sept. 13, 1999 in his home in Vermont. With him was his wife Pam and his children. May his soul rest in peace.

" . . . Barry this is a email addy for Charlie's family.....it will go to
Michelle and Mitchell...his daughter and son in law.. ..Beevenom@aol.com

Donna Chandler
 

Day 867 - 12:57pm - Sept. 17, 1999 EST

Stung 18x this morning on my thighs, knees, calves, feet, neck and hip.

Started and stung 3x on each thigh (left & right sides). Then 1x on either side of each knee. Then, 2x on each calf and 1x on the inside of each ankle. Then, 1x on each side of the neck and 1x on each hip.

The weather here is wet, wet, wet just like everywhere else up and down the northeast coast. Nobody's complaining because we needed the water but I'm looking for dryer times this weekend and perhaps - perhaps, if it's not too cool - some final laps in the pond. Yes, all this rain has brought the water level way up in the pond. But I bet it's cold! But in the meantime, we'd lost our electricity for several hours last night and into today and just got it back. More trial runs for Y2K I suppose.

Finally purchaed the van this week and have it set up for the electric scooter in the back. Should afford me a1 lot more freedomn especially with the colder weather coming . . . and the ice & snow. It's what it's all about - making ones life as "do-able" as is possible with whatever there is.. The Bee Venom Therapy gives me the desire and energy - but I have to supply the rest.

Finally, here's a copy of Charles Mraz's obituary from the Vermont newspapers. Thought folks might find it of interest.

Day 871 - 12:57pm - Sept. 21, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, sides, chest, arms and feet,

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down each side. Then, 1x on each arm and 1x on each side of the chest. finally, 1x atop each foot above the large toe.

Had a pretty good weekend although it was a bit chilly and it seems like it has been a while since I've swam. Went out and had dinner with friends and spent Yom Kippur - the High Holy Days at home with the family. Been spending a lot of time on the computer designing web pages and I suppose this is good.

Katrina went down to retrieve some bees yeaterday nad reported that one of the hives was "sprawled out all over the ground". First we'd thought perhaps it was the storm but this morning I heard that there have been "bear" sitings in the area. Black bears. I'd best call John McCoy, the beekeeper whose cares for the eleven hives, and see what he says. I don't know what to do. I didn't even think there were bears around here anymore. I thought that was like "a hundred years ago".

Received that new Bee Hotel from Dick Johnson and am looking forward to loading it up with bees and working with it throughout the colder winter months. Just received this e-mail from my cyber-friend Wally reporting on his success with the Bee Hotel. Wally writes:

". . . I did the last 12 bees yesterday [in the Bee Hotel]; the rest have died :( BUT that means
the bees lived in the bee hotel since July 8! ...that 's 72 days or
10.2857 weeks! I won't tell you how much I pay for my bees from the
local honey farm...okay okay it must be less than 3 cents per...it's
hard to tell; they won't sit still long enough for me to count ::)). . . " Walt Dudley <wdudley@pop.ctctel.com>

Anyway, it's letters like this that convinced me to purchase one myself. It should make the whole process a bit easier for everyone involved (especially my daughter Katrina) and that's important. Stinging is a hard enough of a regeimn to follow and stay with. Support is key and so is making the whole process quick, easy and simple.
 

Day 873 - 12:14pm - Sept. 23, 1999 ES

Stung 18x this morning on my legs, buttocks, sides and feet.

Started and stung 2x on each thigh. then, 1x behind each knee and on each calf. Then, 2x on each foot - 1x behind the ankle and 1x atop the large toe. Then, 1x on each buttock and 2x on each side and 1x on each side of the neck.

Had a great remainder of the morning as well. Had my semi-annual visit to Dr. Jim and am happy to report that as far as he can tell there has been no progression. He even feels that I've improved slightly - stronger upper-body than 6 months ago - but I think that has to do with the fact that I've been swimming pretty regularly over the summer. But be that what it may - the great news is that I'm not any worse! "So you'd best just keep on doing what you're doing, guy," Dr. Jim tells me, and I can see that he is pleased. He's a really good man. So darn supportive. One of those rare individuals that's smart enough to know what he doesn't know. He doesn't really understand why the Bee Venom works for me. But he's happy for me.

And for me that is what Bee Venom Therapy is all about. Holding my own - doing what I have to do to the best of my ability - with whatever I've got. . . with whatever there is. No, it may not be perfect but it's better than anything else I've come across so far. So I'll just "keep on keeping on!"
 

Day 878 - 11:44am - Sept. 28, 1999 ES

Stung 10x this morning on my shoulders, sides, thighs and knees.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 2x on either side of my torso. Then, 1x on the front of each thigh and finally 1x on the inside of each knee.

Had Gavin go down to the hives and fetch a bunch of bees for me to use in the Bee Hotel last week. Don't think I gave them the right amount and consistency of "sugar water syrup" and many died by Saturday in the morning. So I'd immediately cleaned out the box on Saturday and re-did the feeding mechanism clearing out all the dead, dying and lethargic bees. There were still a handful (10-20 bees) remaining which were doing quite well right through this morning. In the process of claening out the box on Saturday incidentally, I took hold of 3 or 4 bees and had them sting me on my hands and feet. And it really made me feel quite energetic throughout the remainder of the day. I wonder if this isn't a thing to do - just have a few bees sting me everyday - here and there. It's a thought, a new method of Bee Venom Therapy I suppose.

Here's a terrific e-mail that I received the other day. Fred writes:

". . . Charlie Mraz's passing brings me great sorrow.

He saved me from much pain over the last twenty years and initiated the best
chapter in my life.

I will miss him more than I can say. . . " "Fred Malone" <fredm@islandnet.com>

Letters such as these are & have been so supportive to me personally in regard to doing Bee Venom Therapy, I really feel it only fair to share them with everyone else. There are others and i will post them as well.
 

Day 881 - 11:56am - Oct. 1, 1999 EST

Stung 14x this morning on my shoulders, back, arms and hands.

Started and stung 1x atop each shoulder. Then, 3x down either side of the spine. Then, 1x on each upper arm and 1x on each forearm and finally 1x on each hand - between thumb and index finger.

Went for final swim in the pond this week - an man, was it cold! Temperature was about 70 degrees and I just really wanted to go in just one more time. It was a bit too cold though and I got out pretty quickly - although I did get energized.

Coleen, my physical therapist who has moved further upstate and attending graduate school, called yesterday. She'll be home for the weekend and wanted to know if I'd like her to drop by for a session. You bet! I'm excited about seeing her tomorrow. I've really been missing it.

Lots of stuff going on this weekend - meetings and dinner parties - I'll have to pace myself. I've been really going at the web design stuff these past few weeks and doing a lot more than usual. This is the Fall, changing of seasons, the time of year that in the past is notorious for exacerbations. Hopefully, as I continue ahead with Bee Venom Therapy all will be okay.

Here's another e-mail regarding Charles Mraz. Marianna writes:

". . . I want to add my voice to the so very many who are feeling sorrow at the passing of Charlie Mraz. I consider myself truly fortunate to live not far from Middlebury Vermont.

Charlie was the first to introduce me to & teach me about bee sting therapy. He gave me his bees &
shared his knowledge. His encouragement & support made me really feel that I could take charge and
actually make a difference myself, with the help of the bees, in my struggle with MS. I will be forever
grateful and always think of him with love in my heart. . . "Marianna Marianna Holzer <rik@banjo.net>

Another person whose life has been changed for the better by this giving man.

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