Summer,

I can tell you one thing right now. Don't spend time beating yourself up and wondering if you did something to "deserve" this. No one can control RSD or none of us would have it. You didn't bring this on yourself or any other such thoughts you may have.

In life, things sometimes go wrong, and RSD is one of those things that can happen. Many different things can trigger this monster, but do not waste time dwelling on the negative.

As for adjusting to "your new life" try to make the very best of a bad situation. I'll be the first to admit that I was initially in denial about the effects of RSD, but a wise doctor told me to accept the fact that this is a life altering experience. His statement was tremendously helpful to me because I was stuck in the thought that one morning I was going to wake up and everything was going to be "normal" again. Nothing is impossible, but I now am content to work with the hand I've been dealt.

To this very day I continue to strive to get better and keep a positive attitude. The only difference is that I stopped living in the past and decided to embrace the fact that I see small victories in every improvement in my condition. My faith helps me see the glass as half-full instead of half-empty, and there is a big difference!

Hope this helps you.

Take care,

EJ