Hi, my name's Alyssa and I am joining this forum after a pretty devastating (at least to me) life change. I will try to keep it short and to the point, although I tend to ramble. Last September (2011) I had a myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids) and the surgeon for some reason took 10.5 hours as opposed to the 4.5-5 that was expected. She had me in dorsal lithotomy which is apparently strapped in upside down in stirrups. I woke with no feeling in most of my right leg. The doctors say that I sustained "stretched" femoral nerves while under anesthesia. By the time I left the hospital there was some feeling, but almost all horrible pain and extreme weakness. I have been using a cane and custom knee brace ever since.

Prior to the surgery I had no medical history (besides the fibroids). I was a paramedic for over eleven years, worked out doing crossfit, weights and aerobics regularly, hiked often and have always been proactive and very independent. I now have severe insomnia, gained fifty pounds over five months, was fired from my job as a paramedic (and remain unemployed), and I think I may be showing signs of acute psychological distress.

I am joining this group to try and climb out of these horrible negative feelings and thoughts. They tell me that it will take as long as three years for my leg to heal (if it heals), and it's killing my spirit to be so sedentary and well....weak. I am hoping that there's something else out there to aid in my healing. I like many on here have experienced isolation from friends and family (I was the one people came to for help and advice). And I have been unimaginably frustrated with doctors and the system, having to FIGHT every step of the way just to get SOME kind of treatment and help besides "being patient" and waiting for the nerves to heal. I had faced serious challenges in my life before but this is unlike anything I could have ever anticipated. Sometimes I feel like everywhere I turn is a fresh new problem/brick wall that stalls my progress.

I hope I can find some help and who knows what else on this site...maybe a friend or two. Thank you for your time in reading this (not to mention your patience).

Alyssa