Thank you all so much for your compassion and support, it really helps to talk to people about all of this. It's just been so much to take on.

Something I'm really struggling with is not worrying that my CRPS is an indicator of bigger health issue. On bad days (like today for instance), I find myself thinking that there's got to be something to explain what's going on -- some infectious or nefarious process that will translate into larger, systemic issues as I age.

I self-correct pretty quickly and remind myself that I've been tested for literally everything under the sun and that doctors are good at identifying the things you really need to worry about...but man, when I hurt, it's hard to believe that I am actually healthy. It also causes me to avoid any kind of dating (despite being single and quite lonely) as I feel "broken" and like no young woman should have to tolerate my limitations / health problems.

Anyway, that's just a dump of where my head is this evening. Again, thanks for listening, the good advice and the compassion. This place is a lifesaver.

Here's to all of us either getting to a pain-free or a manageable-pain state. Much love and warm wishes!