I’m 54 years old and a grandmother. My pain started due to the wear and tear of my life, but got much worse once I finished menopause. I was previously diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but during the last and final cycle I had at least 6 cysts burst in my ovaries and ended up in the hospital. I always thought moving through the changing cycles of life would be challenging, but not this. I had so much pain that I couldn’t walk out of the hospital. I was initially prescribed medication, massage, chiropractic services and light exercise, but the pain ended up becoming much worse. In the end I had to stop working, driving, moving much and my doctor gave me approximately 5 different drugs, including opioids and narcotics. I paid thousands of dollars to a back institute, I saw specialized chiropractors, acupuncturists, and psychologists. Everyday I prayed to get my life back.
After waiting for quite some time I was finally accepted into a pain clinic. The specialists there are awesome. My observation is that doctors generally require more time and funding to understand each unique case and in order to really help. I would not be here if it wasn’t for them, at one point I just wanted to end my life. The pain clinic has been my only place of hope.
I also took part of my life back by getting off of most of the medications I was prescribed except for the opioids. I also use CBD for pain and spend $175 per bottle, but without it I would likely be on many more medications. I have been getting injections into my hips and back for the last 5 years. I still see a psychologist just to try and release some of my anger towards my situation. I have spent over $50,000 dollars on the pain in my body. I’m grateful I’m able to purchase what I need but there are many people who can’t.
For me it’s 2 steps forward, 1 back every day. My pain is constant and never ending. The strength and degree of pain depends on my actions and determination for that day. If I can stand up, then it’s one foot in front of the other, but if I can’t then I will still continue to try.
I'm aways hopeful that something will change.
By: Charity
This featured story is part of Pain BC's chronic pain awareness campaign for National Pain Awareness Week (NPAW). Find out more about the campaign here.