((((((Terri)))))),

I asked myself that same question over five years ago.

I was fine while I was at work. But, the transportation was killing me.

I was out of work for a whole year after 911 because the computer support industry just tanked here in Massachusetts. I couldn't find work and I was getting worse by the day.

I finally filed for SSDI and got it on the first try.

It's a huge adjustment. The lack of money. The lack of "being a contributing member of society" -- took me a long time to get over that one.

I have arthritis in my back, neuropathy in my hands and feet and forearms and "forefeet" (??) and fibromyalgia. Couldn't take any more pain. I finally got an epidural for my back that worked (for 18 months) -- the pain is just now coming back. The Effexor XR takes care of the pain from the neuropathy and the fibro pain. I'm actually feeling pretty good.

I wish I had MONEY. But, I am glad that I stopped working. I was NOT at the top of the list and was NOT taking good care of myself. I do now.

I hope you work out what you want to do. I know how hard it is.

Hugs.

Barb