Welcome to Connect, Susan! 🙂 @smann68. My name is Kim. I have been a member of Connect for about 2 months now but just started posting the other day. I have come to learn so much, about the wonderful group of members here, and the illnesses they deal with, during the time I did not post, just by visiting different topic areas and discussions. I hope, in Mayo Connect, you will find helpful and new information, offer your own insights on different topics, and find the other Connect member’s information helpful, and hopefully relevant to your own conditions. I can say I have.
We're about the same age, Susan. I'm 47. I've been dealing with Chronic Pain, and Chronic Neuropathy, for over 12 years, now. And, like yourself, and others here, I have other conditions/illnesses that I deal/live with, daily.
You'll find, as I have that MANY members here deal with Chronic Pain. Chronic pain does not discriminate, that's for sure. We all deal with chronic pain differently, some with medications, sometimes several, through exercise and often through a “positive” mindset when possible, etc. We are ALL unique, yet similar in our experiences. I wish I could link to you, information, or a more specific discussion of others that may be dealing with your disease but I have not yet mastered the linking of such things. However, I will learn. 🙂
In the meantime, I know that another member(s) definitely will! The Director, the Moderator’s, and Mentors here, are fantastic! They are truly empathetic, helpful and many know firsthand/from experience, what Connect members are dealing with!
I'm not very familiar with your illness of, Arnold Chiari Malformation, Susan. Although, I have read about it, during research I do on my own. (I am always looking something up online. I have a desire to learn, that never seems quenched!)
Anyways, I'm a talker and writer... lol so I will end here, for now. I’m very open, and willing to share, listen, and talk. Making new friends here is 100% possible! Have a great day, Susan. 🙂