- CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Interviews
Lori's interview
How did all start?
Moved my neck the wrong way one night in January 2015.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, took about 2 months to get.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Physical Therapy, Nerve Blocks, Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, Zoloft, Metatropolol, Tizanadine, Noretriptaline
So far no relief.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Meetings with my psychologist... she helps me keep things in perspective.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Feeling guilty, mostly not being able to help with finances (still fighting disability) and not being able to always play with my son.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Took years for family to believe what I was feeling was real. Took my psychologist to convince my parents. Few friends who believe me, but don’t understand the severity of it. My social life is pretty much non-existent.
What things have you stopped doing?
Everything. Working, being with friends, playing with my son, being outside, etc.
What do you think about the future?
Not sure. I’m hoping for a more educated general population when it comes to CRPS. I’m hoping for doctors who understand the disease and how to better treat it. Ultimately I’m hopeful for a cure.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Ironically these years since diagnosis. My perspective on life has completely changed and I now cherish the little things (like sleep and a shower).
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Advocate, serve, and provide for those who cannot do this for themselves.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Strong, Grateful, Blessed, and Hopeful
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Don’t give up. Yes this disease sucks, but concentrate on the little things. You’ll be amazed at how beautiful your life truly is.
