[keep smilin]

Originally Posted by bbpoolgurl

Thanks everyone for the encouraging words- it really helps to uplift me, knowing I am not alone.

Yes, I spent a good part of the morning playing around with my signature and figuring out how it worked Knowing me, I won't be able to keep one graphic or picture for too long!

Mary, I completely understand how you feel. I got in a horrible car accident back in April, where I totalled my car and had to be taken to the ER. Luckily, no one (including me) was hurt, but after that, my family decided that while on the opiates, I should not be driving. So I have not driven since April, and rely on others for transportation. I think that has been the hardest thing, for me- losing my independence. I was a student at the local university; now I can't go back because not only can I not drive, but the meds have wiped my short term (and some long term) memory. I rely on others for rides to anywhere I need to be. I am only 23! I am having a really hard time accepting that I need help from others especially at my church from the older members, when it should be me helping them out. I cannot work now, so I spend time at home all day while my fiance works.

It's also been really hard on me because it shows you who is there for you and who isn't. I have lost friends over this, my family is not as supportive as you would think a family should be (that's the reason I live with my fiance- he can care for me better than my mother could, because she's "too busy with work, and can't take time off". Her words)...it's just affected every part of my life, every aspect.

I know I probably have some clinical depression, but since I have no way of getting to therapy appts during the day, and my dr doesn't do evenings, well, there goes that. We tried to set up rides for me, and it never worked out.

It's just such a long journey...

It is so nice to have you on board with us..As you have read..this is a very support "family" networking out to help eachother.. We are tied with our RSD, sharing and really finding many likeness in our illness.. I say it again..RSD is a 4 headed animal.. it is relentless. I have been suffering 2+ years, cold turkey as my body won't allow any help from pain meds, they make me ill... I only take Ambient, which I recently began for sleep.

My biggest concern for you is waiting too long fro your SCS, I understand, it's out of your control, but as time passes it can be difficult to receive positive results for the SCS to help you due to the progression of RSD. Again, I am sorry as it seems this has definately been an uphill battle for you... I hope it helps you to know you are not alone in this relentless fight.. Stay hopeful and never ever give up!! Thats the last thing we can do!!

[bbpoolgurl]

Thank you everyone for your kind and supportive words. I know it doesn't seem like much, and I hate for us to have to meet this way (as someone already said), but it really is a relief for me to have come across this forum. It's like a window of light has been opened up- I am not alone on this journey, and I can and WILL do my best to beat this...and if I can't beat it, I will do my darndest to make my life happy!

Again, thank you for the warm words- they really do help put a smile on my face.

[bobber]

Brittany
Welcome
Your correct on who your friends are,,I can count mine on "LESS"" than ONE hand...either way,,,Eagles fly alone,,im glad that you have faith in the Lord Jesus,,he is the great Physcian,,call on him and he will heal you,,,,,,and im so proud of your determination , and that God has put a good caring God fearing man in your life,,,your in my prayers,,,,,,,,,,,,,bobber,,,,,,,,,ps,,,read psalms 41"1-4

[Imahotep]

Good luck. Hang in there.

You've got age on your side. I think you have to fight this thing tooth and nail but I'm not always so sure the best means to fight it. Try to keep it as quiet as possible while doing as much as you possibly can. Mostly just don't give up.

[bassman]

Brittany,

It is nice to meet you. I am glad you found this forum. I get a lot of support, even if I am not being active. Simply reading other people's posts often will help.

You mentioned that you refused narcotics for a while, for concern about addiction. I did as well, and am always conservative when it comes to ANY new medications. But I was reassured by several doctors, including one who specializes in addictions, and they all convinced me that addiction happens when you take the drugs for recreation. When there is a legitimate need, like severe pain, your body reacts differently than when you are only “getting the high.”

I have been on some pretty large doses of very strong stuff – most regular folks would be flying high – and have never felt even the least giddy. That shows me that the drug action is going directly to the pain. The first time I take a Percocet or something and think: “Wow! That feels wonderful!!!”, I will back off.

One other idea. Mrs. D made a comment on long posts. I like to compose off-line using Microsoft Word. I then have tools like spelling and grammar check, Thesaurus, and so on. I will then copy-and-past into the board.

Wishing you well,

Mike

[cindi1965]

Brittany,
This board is my safe haven. The place where we are understood and comforted. I wish I would have found it sooner, but now that I know I can come here and be among friends who understand RSD and the roller coaster ride that it is I feel less isolated. Welcome and we are glad to have you.

[love2laugh]

Welcome to the group Brittany !

I am a 27 y.o. with RSD/CRPS in my legs and pelvis. I've broken both feet twice, which triggered the RSD/CRPS in my legs and the RSD/CRPS in my pelvis was triggered by complications from pelvic surgery last year. It took me years to get a proper diagnosis with my feet and several months with my pelvis--- a wonderful neurologist finally put all the peices together. Its been bittersweet-- at least I finally know what is wrong.

I am currently being "treated" by a pain specialist with Botox in my stomache/pelvis; and a combination of anti siezure medications (i also have epilepsy, so my anti seizure meds serve two purposes, lol ) and Elavil. My new pain specialist is trying to figure out a medication to help with my flares and intense breakthrough pain.

My pain specialist also mentioned the possibilty of a SCS in the future.

Anyway, my husband (who is wonderfully supportive even though he doesn't quite understand RSD/CRPS) and I are currently TTC (trying to concieve)--- so feel free to private message me if you want to talk anytime.

L2L