@jakedduck1 Hello, Jake. Do you know, with evidence, that your neuropathy was caused by long-time use of dilantin/phenobarbital? I think it's a good chance it has caused neuropathy, and perhaps other issues through the years, since I had such an unusual and serious reaction with my liver. I told one of my doctors recently that I'd love to know how these meds and others have affected my body. I think the neurological drugs are surely invoved with damage or weaknesses or diseases I've had/have.

I'm thankful, Jake, that I had something available that helped some, if only a bit and for a short time. I wasn't in that institution as a child!
And, you know, I don't assume I'm safe anywhere......never thought about it and don't like the thought, but it is true. Perhaps because I'm female, I've recongnized my vulnerability.
But, I will not walk the rest of my life in fear. WILL NOT live in fear. Fear is debilitating. Fear causes inaction. Fear freezes you. Fear keeps you from doing what will remove the cause of the fear.

So, I'll do what I know is best for me. I'll improve the quality of my life by working with my Mayo doctors and taking their suggestions, making my decisions, with confidence I've done the best I can in this area. Not afraid. I know and accept the fact I have the junk I have and it is real, but I will not let it rule me with fear or in any other way.

Most importantly, I know I'm safe in my God's arms. He's holding me and protecting me and covering me with His love. I believe all this and, as one who only recently learned to trust, I trust He is with me now. These beliefs are the reasons I have kept going. And, He and Mayo have saved me.

Blessings, and I hope you have a good rest tonight. You are indeed a gem.
elizabeth