I think we, as women, rely on our friends for more emotional support and guys participate in activities together.

I know that my husband would never understand if I said I thought a friend was being thoughtless or inconsiderate......that's pretty much standard operating procedure for how he interacts with people ;)

I hear you.......sad to say but I wish my biggest problem in life was once again that I was running late for work because I had to run a forgotten backpack or lunch to the kids' school. But, back then, I did think that was a big crisis. Ugh !

Hi Erin, I understand about the importance of taking care of ourselves. There are certainly different levels of friends, especially when something serious happens to our health and we are not able to be the person we used to be. I'm going to look up M.G. so I can understand more what you are going thru. About 10 years before getting RSD, I lost my parents and went into counseling. It was then that I really learned to take care of myself and be a good friend to my friends. I became a better mother and wife. Even though you may be limited in certain aspects of caring for your family, I'm certain you can teach your family thru example, about caring for themselves and others that will last for years to come. I know people tell me all the time, my daughter is such a good friend to them and compassionate. She is 29 now and about 17 when I got RSD. I know she is to me. Do you have children? how many and ages? Husband? Take care of yourself. Loretta

Just wanted to share with you many of my friends "disappeared" when I became sick. I have my family who is there for me but this takes it's toll on them as well.
As I mentioned in another post, I am going to spend more time here for support and to become more educated about RSD.
I'm here if anyone needs me.

I wanted to comment on this thread. I think we do get isolated from being in pain so often. I know for me the best way to get past a bad pain spot is to either read a book, go to sleep, or read on the forum. I can't do much more after taking the medications. When the pain hits the top than we are not much good around people. I find myself being very cynical and short with people. I don't even know it at the time, it just comes out of the mouth. It is very polar for me since I am quiet and soft and friendly. But when the pain rears up I change. I just try to get away from people during those times. My family always knows just by the look in my face or the stuggle I have in walking that its not a good day. Sometimes when getting home from work I just tell them I have to lay down for an hour. I am so fortunate to have a good family that helps me and tries to understand me. I don't like them to worry though so I mask the pain most days.
I just got a new job as a teacher. I have been taking online classes, did my student teaching and than interviewed for a job. I didn't know what to say about the RSD...oh by the way I have this leg thing and I am on Vicodan and Nerontin..once in awhile I have to go for Nerve blocks but not to worry. I just wanted you to know up front since I have a handicap sticker on my car. Geez, I did talk about the monster after being hired. I was told they would accomodate me. So hey. ADA worked at the school level. Now we will see if I get offered employment on a contract basis next year.