Hamilton Spectator

Chronic pain sucks the joy out of life and leaves one feeling demoralized

February 14, 2009
Alice Gower
The Hamilton Spectator
Hamilton
(Feb 14, 2009)

Re: 'Chronic pain needn't ruin your life; But patient-physician 'shocked by relative indifference' of society' (Opinion, Feb. 5)

I could relate to this article on chronic pain, as I suffer with chronic migraines and feel living with daily pain can ruin your life.

You go from leading a normal, healthy life, working full time, enjoying hobbies, spending time with family and friends, then it all comes to an abrupt halt. I now live with daily pain and no longer can enjoy the things I used to.

There just aren't the resources out there for those of us who suffer with chronic pain. Nobody understands it unless they know first-hand what it's like. You also have to deal with insurance companies for months to be accepted for disability. I can't even afford the premium you have to pay for a drug plan. Chronic pain affects you emotionally and financially. It demoralizes you. I'm taking it one day at a time.