I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2008 by my PCP. I experienced a fall at work in 2005 while working as a pediatric nurse. I suffered a mtbi & cervical spine injury. I also injured my hands & wrists while breaking my fall. I continued to work for the next 19 months, which was extremely difficult. Then one morning I woke up and could barely move from the pain. My body felt zapped of any life’s energy, and I did not have the strength to even lift my arms. I hurt in every part of my upper body. I was also an emotional wreck. I would cry at the drop of a hat for no reason at all. That was 2006. I never returned to work. The severe burning pain & fatigue has continued to this day.

In 2008 I had a 3-level anterior & posterior cervical fusion. That was one of the most painful things that I have ever experienced. I was on Norco for 17 days, and then ended up in the hospital due to an abnormal t-wave, and dehydration. I had been so weak prior to my admission, that I could not even lift my head off of the pillow to take my medication, or drink any fluids. Since my injury in 2005, I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, obstructive sleep apnea, neuropathy gerd, autonomic dysfunction; problems with temperature control, tachycardia, & a whole host of other annoying symptoms. I live in pain on a daily basis. I am on Neurontin, Cymbalta, Atenolol, synthroid, Benicar HCT for my hypertension I have learned to pace myself. I refuse to put myself in any position that is going to cause more stress or extreme physical demands on my body. I have had to retire and accept the loss of my career. I have set my bedroom up to accomodate my comfort level. I spend the majority of my time in my room. I like the peace & quite. I have two grown kids, so no little ones underfoot. I sympathize with you moms that are suffering from this illness, and have little ones to take care of, and possibly a job. I am sure that it is difficult to ever get the rest that you need to catch up. My heart & prayers are with everyone of you. I was told by a W/C orthopedic doctor a few weeks ago that there is no proof that fibromyalgia even exhists, and I would really like to send him each & everyone of your stories. What ignorance. I know it may take time to find a solid treatment plan that works for all, but I am confident that very soon they are going to be able to prove atleast that fibromyalgia does indeed exist. Then the burden will be on the doctors, not us. Peace to all and may God bless your days, one by one. Whatever things are good, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are pure, concentrate on these things. Phil 4:8