I'm 28 years old and I was born with a fractured spine. After years of chronic pain I had my first spinal fusion at 17. It seemed to help a little at first and then the pain started getting more frequent again. Just this past November I had a second fusion because the first one had degraded and I ended up with constant sciatica for almost a year.

I thought surgery would be a good way to avoid being on painkillers and so I could have a more "normal" life since my lack of being able to have a social life was putting a lot of strain on my marriage. I was wrong. The surgery caused nerve damage and now I am far worse. I can't stand for very log, I can;t sit for very long, and I have burning and stabbing pains in my leg and foot. I may lose my job and my husband just told me today he is leaving me.

I don't know if I should try anymore or just accept that I will be in pain and alone for the rest of my life.