- CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Interviews
RatFromTheTrash's interview
How did all start?
I had a surgery on my right foot. so really fixing one problem just led to another
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yup, about 3 years of doctors going “no idea what’s wrong” until finally getting a diagnosis
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I am on antidepressants for it but no should how much they really help. I also use a cane for school and wheelchair for going out which has helped a lot,
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Distractions. Music, pets, friends, anything can help
What have been your biggest difficulties?
School. I find it hard to walk around school and often get bullied
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Yeah, despite me having one of the most painful diseases, my family thinks i’m over reaction and thinks that i’m fine. I have people not being my friend because they don’t want the extra attention
What things have you stopped doing?
A lot. I used to dream of playing netball professionally one day but now, i can’t. Sorry young me. I can’t go to the shops with friends, can’t take my dog for a walk, can’t go to school events. I won’t even be able to work a normal job.
What do you think about the future?
Struggle. I have no idea how i’ll be able to work and make money, and i’m getting worried.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
In terms of pain i’ve never been not in pain. Before CRPS i had other problems and fixing them led to my CRPS.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Play netball again, I really miss it.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Nothing i can do about it, so mays as well just accept it.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Find people that will understand and help. Find someone that if you have a bad day, they don’t question, just help. Also don’t let it control your life. Do what you can without hurting yourself. It may not be much but it’s the little improvements that can make you feel best.
