Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

[livingwith]

I am a 54 year old female, investigation for RSD started in 2001 and some years later got the diagnosis. There is hope, together, sharing our stories, we can also share our strength hope & courage. I would like to start a support group in South Africa. The RSD support group is extremely helpful and also meeting wonderful people who become our family and friends. I have RSD in my left foot as a result of an injury, I am now in the 3rd stage, some Drs say there is the 4th stage as well. I have...Read the full article

[sherrylynn]

I am 53 years old and I have had RSD for about 3 years. I had surgery on both my arms and as a result, my left arm and hand was affected with RSD. It was good to hear a story from someone that feels like I do. I thank God that I am still able to do some of the things I enjoy. I still work full time. I try to keep as busy as I can to keep my mind off my pain. My condition could be so much worse than it is, and one day it might be but I choose to make the best of what I have and what I can do now. It hurts but I think part of the reason my RSD has not progressed is that I use my hand and arm as much as possible. I have from the beginning of my diagnosis. I swim, workout, do gardening, painting and I work full time. I refuse to give in and try to stay as positive as possible. Thank you Felicity for showing me that there are others out there who feel like I do. God bless you.

[G0J0G0]

Good day Felicity,
Thank you for taking the time to share your story. I am fighting the same battles and have learned to take one day and task at a time. One of the biggest obstacles one faces is the reality that, what was is not what is and every task has it's on value. While some have a greater & sense of urgeny, some can just wait. I have become limited in my physical capabilities and these limitations require me to weigh my options when considerating a task. I don't cut all of the yard in one day, usually the front one day and the rear a day following depending on my pain levels and my overall capabilities. I have a greater appreciation for the little things in life, ie; my daughter climbing into my lap, or scuffling with my son (ouch to just the thought). While RSD is to be respected I am overcoming the fear of the disease and what tomorrow holds, trying hard to not be entangled in bondage to fear itself. Find a place to meditate, spend time relaxing and mot worrying, and most of all enjoy the rest of what life has for you and be thankful for the last breath you just breathed. For a very wise man once said all things work together for the good and all of the weapons formed against us can't succeed... G0J0G0