Dear Ada,

Sorry about your computer, and welcome back.

What an awesome topic...thanks for bringing it up.

As most of you know, my RSD started in my right shoulder, but quickly spread to my cervical spine and the occipital area of my head. When it first spread, I was a complete and utter mess. The nerve pain in my head was excrutiating. And it was triggered by all kinds of things, like bad weather, or raking leaves, or digging in my garden, or a cold wind, or sometimes I couldn't figure out what the trigger was. And worst of all, I had inadequate means to deal with the pain - no strong meds, no decent medical care, a full time job, and a WC adjuster with absolutely ZERO heart. It was truly a nightmare.

I was closer to committing suicide during that time than ever before in my life. I posted often on this board during my early days with RSD looking for help and ideas on how to relieve my pain. Eventually I ended up with a a doctor that I loved in Boston that tried to help me, but numerous SGB didn't put me in remission, so I took a one year medical LOA and added .75 mcg of Fentanyl to my list of meds. Ketamine infusions have really helped lately. I'm not all the way better, but I am back to work!! Yeah!

The feeling of isolation and helplessness of RSD has been the hardest for me. This site continues to provide me with a sense of connection to others wtih RSD. You guys are great, and I am really, really glad that I found you.

In answer to your question - when I felt suicidal - I really didn't have anyone other than this board to talk to. My pain doctor in RI dropped me because WC refused to authorize any new services. Thanks for being here.

XOXOX Sandy