Finally My Story........By Tobi

byrd45 Wed Nov 05, 2008 3:52 pm

From: Bandit36052 (Original Message) Sent: 6/29/2005 8:00 PM
Okay, I have resisted putting my story here for some time, but now I feel it is okay. So here goes.....

I was working as a deputy sheriff when I got hurt with some gang members. I tore my ACL and subsequently had 10 surgeries, 3 infections, torn patellar tendon (caused by the doc), and an allergic reaction to the screw he placed in my knee. My surgeries all occurred over a 2 years period. I also went through radiation therapy because I developed a rare disease in which bone grew within my quad muscle, tearing it each time I walked or moved. I went through 5 years of physical therapy and multiple pain meds. I finally ended up at a pain management specialist who diagnosed the RSD. He started med therapy and did many nerve blocks (18). initially they were successful but as the disease progressed, nothing worked. I was then placed on oxycontin, vioxx, percocet and valium. I was overmedicated and it affected my job. I am a psychologist. I could barely function. I went home and told the doc I wanted off of the meds and he said "no." I changed docs, got off the meds, and am now getting ready to undergo a spinal cord stimulator. I am positive that it is going to be successful. It has to be. I also use meditation, relaxation, and cognitive strategies that help deal with the everyday pain. The flare ups are what are so painful, but, so goes the disease. My words of advice are to keep going, stay the course and keep the faith. The pain will not disappear but it can be managed with a combination of treatments. Become well educated about the disease and lobby with your doc for the best treatment. God Bless and thank you for letting me share my story.

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From: byrd45 Sent: 6/30/2005 10:38 AM
Hi Tobi,
You have been through so much,but it is obvious you have an excellent attitude. I am so glad you shared your story with us. That is real good advice ..keeping the faith and believing that life will go on and we will survive is so important for all of us.I wish you complete success with your stimulator implant. Keep in touch and let us know how it goes.
Love,
Robyn