My name is Sally and am a patient of Dr. Barrett’s.  I have been living with Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) for approximately 4 years.  Before CRPS I was an active person and loved to travel, play golf, going to Curves, walking, and garden, and my hobby was watercolor, making cards and most craft things.  Some things I still do when I can or for short periods, like my crafts.  The rest I will get back to or maybe some I will never do again but that’s ok I will be happy with just little things like walking and doing a little traveling.  I know its all baby steps moving forward, but the biggest challenge is trying to stay “up” and positive, and staying positive about the future being better. 

I have gone through multiple treatments, each giving some relief…and any relief that is accumulative makes life a little easier.  I am, fortunately, an up beat person and usually can stay positive even on my worst days.  My focusing on staying positive not only helps me, but helps those that are around me.  I know it isn’t easy for my family either, as I no longer can give 100% to my role, and if I give in to depression they suffer as well.

I am doing this blog to reach others who live with pain.  Maybe others will take away an idea or thought that will make their struggle easier; and I’m sure others dealing with pain issues will have some ideas or suggestion that will benefit me and others as well.  So I welcome ideas, questions or comments - I’m sure we can all learn from each other.