Anyone in (or have been to) the Pain Rehab Clinic?

Yes, Starting date is August 10. Anxious to start. Thanks for asking.
Roger@skier

@skier You're very welcome. Fantastic news!

@gastrogirl I hear what you are saying and appreciate your concerns, but please don't let them hinder you. Mayo PRC teaches many different people, with many different underlying causes, and many different experiences, how to manage chronic pain/issues. Pain does not need to be a primary focus because there are many overall chronic issues tackled. Albeit weight, depression, stress, loss, etc...The PRC goal is to provide you a tool box to help manage your chronic situations. Your burning tummy may never go away, but learning how to cope better provides you power, despite having a disease. Our brain can make many cognitive errors along the way which holds us back. It's worth exploring Mayo's Pain Rehab Center by simply applying to the program first. The Drs. will review your medical history and interview you before determining if you are eligible. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Does this sound of interest to you?

Hi Rachel @rwinney
I do have a question/comments. During the first two-day orientation sessions, what specific evaluations are completed to help design a customized treatment plan? Specifically, I'm concerned at the the physical therapy part. I'm addicted to fitness. I routinely bike, swim, strength train, 6 ft tall, weigh 175 lbs.--not a couch potato. I've completed over 30 PT sessions related to my chronic low back pain and sciatica, resulting in no pain relief. I'm puzzled by how new PT strategies could help, but hope staff comes up with something that give me some relief.

Maybe this question should be directed to Cinnamon, PRC Admissions Coordinator??? 3 months waiting time before I start the PRC program. That's probably toooooo much time to think about what's going to happen. Still have a month to go. Can't wait to start!! Really looking forward to the cognitive behavioral-meditation part.

Thanks for listening,

Roger @skier

@skier Hello Roger. I completely understand your curiosities of how the program sets you up personally. There is a lot to think about going in to unknown territory. You remind me of myself, perhaps a bit of a perfectionist/overachiever? I can assure you this, you will be in the best hands possible to set you up for success. Without giving away all the Mayo PRC secrets, I agree with you about consulting your admissions coordinator with your questions or concerns. They are patient, kind and always willing to help. You are so much closer than you were 2 months ago to getting there Roger. You got this! Talk soon.
Rachel

Hi Rachel @rwinney
I really appreciate your immediate, thoughful and reassuring comments about the Mayo PRC program. Your statement "...without giving away all of the Mayo PRC secrets" is very encouraging, positive, and a feeling of excitement. Can't wait to start!

Thanks much,

Roger @skier

I'm being referred to the PRC in Florida for seizures, etc. I live locally (about 25 miles away) but I don't drive and no local family. It's a three-week daily out-patient program.

I'm considering investing in my physical and mental health and trying to get a hotel nearby with a shuttle.

(I've been isolated this whole pandemic for health reasons, so daily travel, waiting for rides both ways, etc, seems very stressful on top of the full day program)

Questions

1) Has anyone been through the program? Is it worth it?

2) Does anyone have logistical suggestions? (lodging, transportation, meals, etc)

3) The budget is low but the need is great. Any other tips/leads?

Hi @hobbitinhopeland I wanted you to to be able to connect with people who have gone through PRC in Florida. People such as @skier and @rwinney.
As far as lodging, there is a hotel on Mayo Clinic's campus. It's the Marriott Courtyard. Here is their website.
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/jaxmc-courtyard-jacksonville-at-the-mayo-clinic-campus-beaches/
It is literally a sidewalk away from the main entrance, so there isn't a big need for constant transportation, but there are shuttles for getting around campus if you feel you cannot walk.

There is a Bistro in the hotel and there are three Patient cafeterias on campus , not to mention if you use any apps like doordash or uber eats you can have local food delivered to you.

Do you know when you will be going?

Hi @hobbitinhopeland, I am thrilled to hear you are considering investing in your physical and mental self! That is such a positive and brave step to take.

To answer your questions:

1) I attended last year and it was life changing, well worth my wait. You can read about my experiences here:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-pain-rehabilitation-program/

2) I stayed across the street at Marriott Courtyard, which @amandaburnett so kindly provided a link to in her reply. This location caters to PRC attendees and shuttles them back and forth as needed. They were very accommodating overall.

3) I flew in from NY therefore could not bring food but did get basics from the local grocery. I ordered out from local eateries (easy to do on phone apps) and had delivery on occasion, but that can get costly. I also ordered from the Marriott's Bistro which was convenient. There is a small fridge and microwave, so I made due with simple meals and snacks. If I ordered out, I made sure to order a meal like pasta for instance that might provide leftovers so I got two meals for one. Outside of that, I purchased food at Mayo's cafeteria for lunch, or brought something and ate in the PRC lobby near the classrooms. They do provide a microwave to warm lunches. You will need a lunch bag with ice for cold lunches. Bring a refillable water bottle. Water is cheap and healthy.

I am glad to help so please ask me anything else that comes to mind. Are you on the Mayo Pain Rehab waiting list yet?