Catherine, my heart sunk a bit, wondering what this must have felt like to you.:hug:

It's tough. We don't want doctors to "give up" on us, or to see us as "hopeless." At the same time, we don't want them misleading us and/or involving us in attempts that may harm us in some way, in an effort (on their part) to try to find something that helps us.

I can relate. I have seen researchers in various specialties, have seen so many different doctors, had even become subjected to some very unethical research methods (without my knowledge/consent and I will not/have not ever named this researcher in a forum). Many stories after 30 years of trying to find medical help. While most physicians are truly motivated to help, some are motivated to get a paper published more than helping an individual, etc.
It can get messy! :(

I often "beg" my Primary Care doctor to please not send me for more consults and work-ups at this point in my life. I tell him it's fine for him to chart that I have refused, as he has to cover himself legally. I will do a few consults in the near future; yet, I have put them off for a few years. I have been told, by some of the best, repeatedly, that allopathic medicine is very limited in what it can offer me. Their best approaches were draining me of what little energy I'd had. The approaches were crippling my life even more. I am thankful for all of the doctors whom have sincerely tried to help over the years; yet, so little has been helpful. I use the few things which have been helpful and move on, trying to have a life as best I can.

Although it can feel like doctors are "rejecting" and/or "giving up," there's some comfort in knowing they will not use you for their own experimentation, they will put you through unnecessary testing/treatments, will not mislead you or misguide you. They are truly looking out for you, although it can be difficult to see this immediately. They will be there to offer assistance when they are aware of any new approaches which may help. That's truly the most we can ask.
(When we, and/or the doctors, look for more than this, we sometimes open up doors to experiences which truly are not helpful.)

I love your posts, they are so full of heart!
I am glad Kitt is here with her knowledge, her experience, her compassion and her encouragement!

I encourage you to continue to make the most of life!
We are not our illnesses, our diseases. We are each so much more than those things!

You have an amazing heart and spirit! :)
May you be surrounded with lots of Love, Hope, Support and Joy!:grouphug:
DejaVu