Hi Kim! Welcome to the forums!

One thing I have learned over the years is that sometimes we are the reason they wont listen or even try to understand. It is because when ever they get near us the first thing out of our mouths is complaining. We hurt here, or there, and start running down what is wrong with us at that point in time.

I noticed that I was a chronic complainer. Sure we have a right to complain, but we are driving a wedge between us and those we are trying to get to understand what we are going through. My kids, and even the wife would try to avoid me at all costs. They wanted to help me, but just couldnt handle my constant complaining.

Once I realized this I changed my tactics. I started to watch everything coming out of my mouth, and began to ask about them. Taking an interest in what was going on with them first, and tried my best to not change the focus to me. It wasnt long before they were asking how I was doing, and if there was anything they could do for me.

My daughter started looking RSD up on the internet without me prompting, or encouraging her in any way. What she learned she shared with the rest of the family, and when it came from her everyone listened.

Life is much better around here since I started focusing on them, because now they were focusing on me. My wife even understands now when I have those days where you cant even concentrate because of the pain. ( A real fun person to be around at the time LOL)

Not sure if this will help at all, but it worked for me