So sorry about all these pain in the ass insensitive experiences. And I hope you feel better soon.

Being in the grasp of pain and dealing with idiots is a great combination for killing someone. I totally agree.

Pain trumps everything – and why people don’t get that is really beyond me!!

But, I get it and I am glad to hear you’re not taking ANY of this on as your fault – because it isn’t. And insensitive people abound – with their “helpful suggestions” at the most inopportune times.

I do believe that there are baby steps that we can learn along the way when we’re having health (or any other) issus – as we’re able to digest them. We can notice what helps – and what doesn’t – but not when we’re in pain. When we’re in pain, it screws with our thinking as you have so clearly articulated. And, that is the WRONG time for messages like getting off meds and losing weight as you have so clearly pointed out.

I believe that one day things will change – and I don’t know how this will happen exactly – but I really believe that we are capable of working with a team of provider’s that really get what’s going on for us as patients and find ways to help us that work with our needs and values.

The world is changing at lightening speed – and healthcare is just one example of things undergoing reform.

In the meantime, though, pain is pain – it hurts like crazy!!! And you know yourself well enough to know which messages don’t work for you.

So, good for you for managing this thing and also having the courage to educate the rest of the world about what it’s really like to deal with chronic pain. Your humor is honest and real – and a great strategy to cope with some really tough stuff.

You have my deepest respect and admiration – and I sincerely wish you good health and healing.

Char