Hi Rachel,
Thanks for checking in with me. Yes, I did manage to go down to Phoenix and completed the three week PRC program. Overall, it was a very positive experience and I’m glad I went. I made progress on changing my biological clock, I weaned off the majority of my opioid meds , and I engaged with a new type of peer group that was focussed on function rather than symptoms. It was very validating to realize that people with major chronic pain challenges end up in the same place regardless of diagnosis. On arrival at the course we were all isolated, afraid of exercise and living a life dominated by suffering. There were some people that had dramatic turn arounds as they had not been exposed to the various tools that the course introduces you to. There were others like me who made more more modest progress in the form of baby steps. I’ve been back two weeks and as expected, it’s been very challenging to apply the knowledge I gained at the course. It’s been disappointing to have several relapses back into the crash and burn cycle, but overall I feel that I’m moving forward, however, slowly . Most importantly, I made sure I have put in supports, moving forward as now is the time when the real work starts. I have a local pain coach and psychologist as well as the peer group from the Mayo plus continuing advice from their physiotherapist.
All the pieces are there .. it’s up to me now.

@alh123 Congratulations on graduating the PRC! I held my breath waiting for your reply, and there you were - YOU DID IT! What an AMAZING accomplishment. You should be very proud of yourself, I know I'm proud of you for having the mental fortitude to persevere and follow through with your goal. You summarized your experience beautifully - with honesty and optimism.

The first couple of weeks are hard. Keep reminding yourself that you now have a full tool box, and a plan to follow. You are more ahead of the game than you were before. Like you said, you've got the PRC staff support, resources like your manual, exercise books and notes, peers, etc... Utilize them all. Set backs happen, I can't tell you how many I've had, but the difference is is that now the foundation has been laid to reset and restart as many times as needed. Modest progress IS progress. Pull in the view finder and take one moment, one day, at a time. You've got this, my friend, and please, please give yourself grace along the way. I'm here for you, and so is Connect. I caution however, to protect yourself and the PRC principles by not engaging in pain behaviors on this site or anywhere, it is important for your success.

I leave you with no questions asked, just a hip hip hooray for your continued slow, steady, and patient progress. It will happen, stay the course.