I really appreciate the responses from those of you who took the time on this thread. I am scheduled for my first infusion tomorrow morning. I am a little (or maybe a lot) apprehensive about it. Back in the mid 90s, prior to my surgery, I was on Imuran for about a year. Then 2-2.5 years ago I tried Humira. I was told that the Humira wasn't getting into my bloodstream. I have no doubt that this IV infusion of Remicade will, so I am just anxious about all the potential issues that could arise.
I had my total colectomy in July of 2000. So, for the past 19 years I have been living with the symptoms of not having a large colon, having some inflammation in the anus area and sometimes on the pouch. I have also been diagnosed with Crohn's Disease because they have found inflammation in my small intestine too. I get by day-to-day not too bad. Some days are rougher than others. I think I could hold a full-time job, depending on what it entails. I am in very good shape for my age (probably in the top percentile) and I look after myself well. However, I have been taking 360mg of codeine daily to keep my symptoms in check for over 18 years.
I have thought a lot of the fact that "maybe I shouldn't fix what ain't broke." Or at least it functions well enough. I have mentioned that to some GI specialists. The response I got was that it's not a good idea to carry on with inflammation in my digestive tract. That could lead to more severe problems. Hence, I tried Humira -- but it didn't work. The reason I never started Remicade sooner is because my family re-located and thought it would be best to wait until we got settled. Also, medicare in Canada is a very slow process. That coupled with the fact that I wasn't in a hurry to try another medication is the reason for the 2-year gap since completing my Humira trial.
I am still apprehensive and not sure if it's the right thing to do or not. I suppose it's worth a try. I am not gravely ill by any means. I just hope it's a smart move.