Limpy,

Pred was/is the best thing I've tried, other than the reboot. While 60 is a high dose, my doctor switched me to every other day just as soon as I was stable and that instantly decreased side effects by half, and soon we began dropping the dose. I have actually gone completely off pred a couple of times, but now never go above 20 a day because of psychiatric symptoms (depression/rage) at higher doses. At present, I'm down to 2.5 mg eod, and want to drop that at summer's end (fingers crossed.)

Another option, which I've also done, is IV solumedrol. It could be done with the IVIG (probably immediately before). That works fast, avoids the gastric complications, and overall has less side effects. I did 125 mg IV solumedrol every 3 weeks for a while instead of pred tabs. It's something to consider.

I'm glad you aren't letting fear stop you from trying a possible good treatment. You may be limpy, but you certainly aren't WIMPY!