Update

Sometimes I get sick of only writing about my pain condition, but I guess it's about time for an update.

I recently started taking some classes for the summer. One is Basic News Writing with Front Range and it's online. The other one is Freshman Composition with Colorado State University.

It is really weird to be going to class again. It has been about 2 years since I have attempted school (the last time being Fall of 2006 when I was on heavy-duty painkillers). This time around, my body is free from narcotics (yay!!!) so it will be a whole different story. I have come to learn that having chronic pelvic pain and interstitial cystitis affects everything (my concentration, how long I can make it without having to use the bathroom, how long I can sit in a hard chair without being miserable, and my ability to be counted on for anything...), so this new venture is a bit scary for me. However, I am excited to be doing something with my time again and also very determined to finish my degree, despite all of the setbacks I've had!

I have also been playing my trombone in the Loveland Concert Band and mentoring a girl through Partners Mentoring Youth, so I am having fun and staying busy. When I'm not doing one of these activities or at class, you will most likely find me in my bed resting with my heating pad or doing protocol from the clinic.

Some words about the protocol: It's amazing. I don't know where I'd be without it. I still hurt and I still have symptoms, but the intensity has decreased and I now feel like I can help myself, which is worth so much more than I could ever describe. I have been doing a lot of relaxation sessions lately and also using the Theracane to relieve trigger points. My friend found a YouTube clip of Dr. Wise explaining the protocol if you'd like to see a bit about it: http://youtube.com/watch?v=GUt8uFNvudQ

I also didn't update on here as much as I would have liked to while I was quitting my painkillers. The one entry I did post during the withdrawal was about as good as I felt. After the first few days, my legs started to have the constant desire to kick and move and jiggle and basically flail about. It is quite a feeling because your body is so tired but you can't let yourself fall asleep.

On the whole, I am of course glad that I quit. It is great to not be dependent on the drugs anymore and to be dealing with the pain in alternative ways. If there is anyone out there who is interested in what it's like to quit Oxycodone or wants to hear more about the clinic, please feel free to contact me.

I know I say this every time I post an update, but thank you to all of you who pray for me, ask my parents about me, and send me cards. All of your support is such an encouragement!