Hi all. I have been reading these boards for a couple of years, but finally decided to join so I could talk back. I've was diagnosed with fibro about 9 years ago and I am still adjusting. I was an office manager, and a youth director in my church and taught piano in my 'spare time'. I had to let go of the high stress job and the youth work. I started teaching piano full time (which is easy for me and is a sitting job). I have a studio with over 50 students which tires me out a lot but is really satisfying.Thanks for sharing,I've learned a lot just from listening. Now I'm looking forward to talking with ya'll. (Obviously, I'm a 'southern gal).:)

:wave: Hey Samm, welcome to the boards, it's good to chat about all things fibro and it will help, what stopped you joining in before? Are you a shy southern belle? Look forward to your next post, take care keep well Snoozyowl;)

Hello Samm, I'm from Alabama too......I've had fibro for about 7 years
and have learned to make the best of the situation. For 2 years I was
so sure it was arthritis, I refused to believe xrays and lab work. I was
70 at the time and that was just too old to have the onset of fibro.
After seeing a rheumatologist and a neurologist, I finally accepted the diagnosis of my family doctor.
She prescribed pain medication and Ambien CR for sleep. I have not
increased either med in 7 years. I stay very active at home and at
church. My husband of 57 years is in good health and we enjoy so many
good times together. Without the medications there would be little quality
to our life.
Being retired from a profession that frowned on pain medication and from
a generation that was ''tough as nails'', it was so hard for me admit I needed
to take anything for pain.
I hope you enjoy this board as much as I have. We are not judgemental
and you can always find someone who can answer you questions. I also
hope it's cooler in your part of the state and I pray it rains.
Bilij