Hello pain nation, As another reluctant member of this nation I am glad for a site like this.  I have questions about on-going life with chronic pain and at the same time I think I have some wisdom after multiple surgeries and procedures.

I am currently preparing to go on a trial for a pain pump.  I have been on a slow but often abrupt experience of decline in my back/spine health.  Three operations from 1999-2001, the last being fusion L4-L5 to my pelvis.  Was in great health and even good back health until a morning snow shoveling ruptured my first disc.  I have been to two pain clinics over the years.  Have access to great Drs at Yale in CT.  Now I am headed to a Dr in RI to explore the trial faze of an implanted pain pump.  Willing to talk with others if I can help.

Lots of impact on my family.  Had to leave full-time work that I loved.  Have a good part-time work from home (10hrs) but miss my career.  Impacted us big-time on the $ front.  Blessed to have good health ins. and disability plan.  Hoping pain pump will improve life and allow me to work more to make up $ gap as we have one in college and one to go next year.

Still love to play music, read, walk for exercise when able, family time, supportive friends and faith community.