@lilypaws Reading what you've just wrote here and I agree. All of what you said regarding opiod therapy and pain management. My PCP was kind enough to believe and understand my pain and prescribe me hydrocodone. My pain management drs provide me needles only such as radio frequency ablations and epidurals or, implants of course. Neither PM or my Neuroligist will prescribe an opiod. The stigma is real and felt strongly by communities, advertising, politics. I feel guilty and shamed by this but, at the same time feel truly blessed that I'm the lucky one who receives such help and blessed that an opiod allows me some of my life back. Do I like being in this position and using them? Hell no! It weighs on me daily and I will continue to fight for other solutions.

My heart goes out to everyone who has ever had a suicidal thought from exacerbation of daily pain and all that it brings. I can say I have never been there but, yes depression presents. In the end, my family, my children motivate me and I believe I have good to provide this world still. Since I've been sick, I do think of death. I guess because there have been days when I feel like I'm heading in that direction and envision my funeral, what it would be like. Sorry, I hate to bring negativity up but, if we all know we are not alone and are here for each other....my hope is, that it will help.
Be good to yourselves everyone.

@lilypaws Thank for the conversation starter and stay positive, as I hear in your message of hope.

@lorirenee1 You are a fighting spirit...I feeling this through your messages, despite being tested by your feet.

@wsh66 You provide much experience and knowledge. Thank you for your insight.

Be well
Rachel