What a great thread!
Being the 'family' that we've become, there have been so many ups and downs shared between us...the excited nervousness of getting the trial implant, the joys of successful implants, the disappointments and frustration when something doesn't go right.....and the day to day struggles and triumphs of living with chronic pain. We carry a heavy load.
I've never in my life known anyone who has the strength and determination as we do here at our little forum, this place we can all come to and share... understand one another without having to explain anything.....and just 'be' ourselves, lifting one another up and strengthening each other so that we can carry on our lives with our families and responsibilities, without the frustration of thinking that nobody understands what we really are going thru.

2011 has been a year of growth for me. When I look back at how I was doing the year prior, I realize that I have come a long way for the better, even tho it usually doesn't feel like it. I had to take 3 months off from the forum this summer because of circumstances in my life and being overwhelmed with family matters. I wasn't able to come here to my safe haven and I missed it very much. Every day is a slow progression and each day is a struggle of it's own, but when I remind myself of how horrible things were prior to SCS, I am grateful that I am not there anymore.

In 2012 I hope to rise above where I'm at now so that I can 'be' more and be able to do more for others. I have great hopes that there will be unforeseen breakthru's so that everybody here will have the opportunity to reach a better quality of life. I'm excited about all the new members who have come aboard and anxious to be a part of their upcoming implants next month and beyond. I am ever grateful for our faithful group who has been with us all this time - welcoming the newcomers and being a part of this great team of supporters. Each and every person here is a link to this chain that continues to grow and strengthen.

I care so much for everybody here. You truly are like family to me.

Rae


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