Hi Debbie ~ I'm so sorry you're going thru all this. I totally understand and know how hard all this is.

I've been a chronic painer for over 25 years, and while I too sometimes look normal, the pain can be overwhelming at times. I have severe spinal disorders, and have had 2 open surgeries, as well as a spinal cord stimulator implant & removal. Not to be dramatic, but I have NO friends anymore, because they just quit calling -- since I can't tell them for SURE that I'll be "okay" on any certain day, they won't be bothered with me anymore. Oh well -- I guess they weren't REAL friends anyway.

My biggest problem has been the doctors -- trying to convince them how severe the PAIN is, since they can't SEE it. They know I'm in pain, but they aren't sure how MUCH. Good grief. Do they think I just about crawl in the office on purpose??

Such is the life of chronic painers, right? God bless and I wish you the very best. Please take care. Hugs, Lee