Dick S – I have been on the Namanda a little over a week now and the pain is going down daily. I’m so excited I had to “test drive” my new pain meds last night by going grocery shopping! That has been my biggest challenge in staying independent – pushing a shopping cart or even driving one of the electric ones has caused great pain for days after and pretty much uselesness of my hands/arms for several days. I felt so good last night, I made a second trip around the store just because I could!!!! Wanted to provide an update … can’t wait to see how I will feel in another couple of weeks when I’m at full dosage level!!!!! Also want to see how I do as my Dr brings down my other pain meds as this one increases. But I have to say, I’m more encouraged than I’ve been in a year!

Stacy – so sorry to hear about the pain in your heart. I know I had to go through a mourning process to come to terms with this illness. Just seems like I was picking myself off the ground from my 30 year failed marriage when this hit me … sigh. Had to change my attitude once again! All I can tell you is I have great faith that this life is only a prelude for the one to come. My praise/thankfulness journal was hard to start, but once started it’s an essential part of my journey and now I can’t quit! One of my friends was on a lot of anti-depression meds and started the thanksgiving journal and is now off all the meds. I will NEVER give up on getting better – but I know my attitude has a lot to do with my healing. So like you, I look for those things that bring me pleasure. Thank you so much for sharing your heartaches – you are in my prayers.