it's simply beyond their realm of experiences. Mrs D is right, they don't really care.
My own dear DH didn't get it until two years later he started to get diabetic PN...and actually TOOK CARE OF IT! He's griped some about it, but, at the same time he'd seen me in the Hospital ER with a full fledged out and out onset that kept me there for two days. Then I went home...
Trying to cope alone, when I could barely walk, and the meds kept me sleeping for 18 hours a day... I got by it all and finally after a year got a good and proper diagnosis...then some treatment. No cures, but things that help me 'get by'.
I made a vow, point of trying to get up and dressed each day [tho at times it would take me a half hour?] and GO OUT! Of course I would get home and sleep for 2 hours to regroup but that's OK. I asked for and got PT to help me re-learn how to do the basic things such as walking correctly and also not damage myself in the process!
It IS LONELY. Friends are expecting you to be well, your old you? You aren't, I dunno about you, but when I go to any event, I'm tired already and want to go home and nap. I phone my friends and when they ask how I am? I always reply: Holding my own. End of that subject!
Being sick can be a very isolating experience! Do take a peek at the chronic pain forum here and maybe some other sites as well.... We are just a small portion of those in pain. We are in a big community of smart people who manage to keep a sense of humor inspite of all that's going on! We even overcome lots of obstacles! Really? I'm waiting to hear of one of us winning a BIG lottery! Soon please? Good news is always welcome!
JANNAW? Congratulations! That must be a BIG burden off of your shoulders! Yeah! I would try to do a jig? But I'd probably fall over and break something, but I'm doing it in my mind.
IF your pains, numbness is progressing? Talk to your doc...if that gets no real response? Get another opinion, tho tactfully... My line was that neuro#1 and I really weren't communicating well. [Actually he'd decided nothing could be done, and thus only did the 'basic' testings....WRONG!] You need someone to listen to you.
Gotta ask tho? HOW do you know the numbness was 2mm deep and now 5cm deep? Tests or what? Just curious....
Hugs and hope and relief soon! 's - j