I very much agree with the other members in saying how brave and strong you are... I am also one that simply cannot take gabapentin. I take other things to make my pain "manageable" and then, sometimes, it is still not "manageable". And yes, there are side effects.

I do understand how difficult it can be in managing on a day-to-day basis - probably most of us here have great difficulty. I gracefully 'retired' from my career of 25 years. I was a VP of a small company and had worked very hard to get there... long hours, night school and plenty of stress.

Fortunately, I did get SSD after one denial. Perhaps you could apply and if it turns out you do not require it, well nothing lost.

It is depressing. I personally would love to work but for now, I am unable, and only time will tell.

I wish you all the best...

Mere