I'm a single mom living each day in hell I think. I have two girls that are my world, and they are the reason, as well as my parents, that I hang on. I developed FM after a motor vehicle accident. I was hit head on, and the other driver was killed instantly. I began to realize something wasn't right when I slowly started to feel better from the accident, and then began going backwards. After many tests and a few years of aggravation I was finally diagnosed with FM.

I guess I'll  use this space to describe more of my life with Fibro, as it is the reason I'm here. I've was diagnosed a couple of years ago, but believe I've had it for a fair time before that. I just had to go through other tests to be certain it was nothing else.  The part that is hard about an FM diagnosis is that deep down you always wonder if it is something more severe as far as life threatening. I am one of these patients that doesn't seem to react well to any meds that help with Fibro. Cymbalta however, has been some help to me. It has decreased that  burning skin feeling I get, as well as helped my depression some. If I happen to miss even one dosage, I'm in for a bad day emotionally!

I couldn't ask for a better doctor. He always listens and is willing to try my suggestions, or explain to me why he feels it won't work. That doesn't happen often though. He's great in doing everything he can to help. I can tell he feels frustrated, as I am, but he is working with me to do all he can. I can't thank him enough! Having a doctor that I believe in, as well as one that believes FM exists and wants to do all he can, is a big plus on my side!

The pain I experience each day, is too much for me to handle most days. There have been several times lately where my two girls have actually had to help me walk. I've bought myself a cane which seemed to be the hardest purchase for me ever!  There was just something about being in my forties, and having to use a cane.  I could not get past the aggravation of it for some time. For people to see me using it, you KNOW its a terrible pain day!  And I must be out of my house for something major, because if I need that thing, NO ONE sees me with it other than family. My neck brace is worn often too. I have gotten a little more used to wearing that, as I've had it longer I guess.

My social life is nonexistent. I can't keep a relationship going,...I have to face it, I'm no fun to be around. Many days, I'm never even out of my pyjamas but to have one of many baths in my tub with jets. Thank God for that tub!!! While I'm in it, my pain level is way down. It feels as if it is the best relief imaginable! And it is! Unfortunately, I'm only out for about a half hour when the pain is back full power. At least it does give me that much desired break from it for a while.