Trying hard to get off of the pity pot - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

funchick · 06-03-2003, 11:25 AM

I broke my neck when I was 16. I will soon be 33. I am often told how lucky I am since I was told by the docs that I would never walk again, and yet I have lived a relatively normal life, which has included walking. I have had a few bumps in the road over the past 17 years, but over all I really have been doing fairly well.

Well, about 6 months ago, I started having some new numbness and new pain. I saw my regular doc who of course sent me to a neurologist and a rehab specialist. Well to make a long story short, they have medicated me heavily, but have told me that basically that there is nothing more that they can do for me. Today he gave me a "Permanantly Disabled Tag" for my car. I have never imagined myself as "Permanantly Disabled." Who would have ever thought that a stupid parking tag could have such an impact on a person?

So, I am sitting here, on a pity pot, which I know I need to get off of, but I am not sure how. I refuse to accept that I am getting worse and that I will not ever be better than I am today. Just because 3 docs have told me that I am not going to get better does that make it so? They told my mom that I may not live through the night when I first broke my neck, and here I am 17 years later.

i just wish I could focus on all that I have been blessed with over the past 17 years, instead of all of the things that I am losing now, and all of the things that I "may not" ever be able to do.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Debbie2 · 06-03-2003, 12:07 PM

Sounds like you deserve every bit of this pity party. But always remember, second opinions are a good thing. Just because one or two doctors say nothing nothing can be done, they are often very wrong.
Get another opinion, at least to make youself feel better and know you've taken every avenue you can.
I'm sorry your down, but we'll brighten you day if we can...
Some good jokes on here today

Prayers to you,
Debbie

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Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.

Debbie2 · 06-03-2003, 12:07 PM

Sounds like you deserve every bit of this pity party. But always remember, second opinions are a good thing. Just because one or two doctors say nothing nothing can be done, they are often very wrong.
Get another opinion, at least to make youself feel better and know you've taken every avenue you can.
I'm sorry your down, but we'll brighten you day if we can...
Some good jokes on here today

Prayers to you,
Debbie

------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.

melanie dawn · 06-03-2003, 12:15 PM

Well, you certainly deserve your party.
That damn parking tag, 3 months ago when I got mine I was sure it was going to be temporary also, when it came and was a permanent one, I was shocked, It is amazing what an effect that has. I was upset , then I told myself that it is an opinion, and that it was easier to obtain the permit as permanent than temporary. Here you mst need one for 6 mon. or longer to qualify, and it really is easier to obtain and be issued when it is labelled permanent.
As Debbie said, exhaust every option before you accept this opinion. We will be here for you, and help in every way possible.
Take care of yourself, and keep in touch,, , Mel

ps. remember that tears can be cleansing, it is much better to let them flow.

rollercoasterfan · 06-03-2003, 12:28 PM

Hi funchick,

With a name like that I am sure you will be feeling better about life in no time. BUT until you feel better mentally about things....I agree with the others...take the time to cry and pity yourself. You earned it, you deserve it. Crying is very good for you, it releases things that we sometimes can not voice. Do not allow yourself "forever" to exist in your pity party, but for now....it is okay to be sad. I think we forget that it is one of many emotions and that it is "okay" to feel sad.
Use your experience and your sadness to relate to others and encourage others. Sometimes helping others makes us realize why were given this cross to carry.
May God bless you and give you pain-free peaceful moments.
Hugs,
Suzie

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ACDF 6-7 june 1998
Surgery July 2, 2003