[Robert_325]

It's really been something that has made me feel good having so many friends asking about my results at the University of Washington dept of orthopedics yesterday. This has been going on for some time and it's been very painful for me. LOTS of people here were kind enough to take time from their lives and be supportive of me. Your kindness and encouragement has meant more to me than you'll ever know. If we do the right thing for long enough we do improve, even recover if we are lucky.

I think Dave mentioned this morning that he had previously had like five knee surgeries and I'm sorry to say that I'm in the same boat. Old timers like Dave and I have learned to live with all that pain. Thankfully I've accumulated enough years clean that I've become able to learn to handle a small amount of narcotic painkillers without fear of relapse when it's absolutely necessary. After all these years I can finally say that I won't instantly relapse from a prescription taken medicinally. Years ago it would have been an instant death sentence for me but today I've learned patience and trust in God's direction when I'm doing the right thing as determined by HIM.

Another knee surgery, especially a replacement would have required some serious pain killers no doubt. And like Dave said, people like him or me just can't do opiates unless there is NO CHOICE.

Sometimes we do what we have to do. The dr himself was even commenting about all my past surgical scars on my legs. But after one of the best exams I've ever had, I know that I won't require that they cut off a section of my leg and replace it with a synthetic material. I have to admit I'm relieved as I was pretty uptight and apprehensive about them whacking off about 18" of my leg and replacing that knee. Everything isn't perfect obviously but I can deal with my problems and do it with faith in the Master Physician who always takes care of me according to HIS will.

I'll soon be 58 (if the good Lord is willing) and if I survive that I will have made it with five knee surgeries and one foot surgery (plus some other invasive procedures) from refusing to stop playing competitive sports. I love racquetball and other sports and I ran cross country 7miles a day for years and I feel the athletics saved my life considering all the drugs I used for so long.

I've had to deal with several autoimmune diseases my entire life. I moderate on an autoimmune disease forum besides working on drugs.com. My worst illness has been my Rheumatoid Arthritis (plus osteoarthritis), I have bad Raynaud's Phenomenon (a blood circulation problem almost costing me to lose three fingers a couple times to amputation), I have APS (antiphospholipid syndrome) a condition that causes blood clots and I've had two of them. They nearly killed me and now I've also been diagnosed yesterday with Fibromyalgia which affects our muscular system making our chronic fatigue and other things worsen that I already suffer from due to the other autoimmune problems. I will have to deal with some pain meds for a short time until I make some major lifstyle changes including my exercise commitments, diet, several things that I have to change. There is no cure for any of this but it is within my power to make things better for myself at least. Dr said I will still likely need a knee replacement at some time in the future, but for now I can work to improve my overall condition, strengthen my core and lower back, which once I do these things I'll be able to not require any medications for pain which I so desperately hate them. Melinda also suffers from Fibromyalgia so we can work together helping each other in this battle. Gives us another thing we can do together to.

Bottom line guys is that all your prayers and kind thoughts helped and I will start working today to make my life positive and I will be engaging in the right activitites with the right attitude to improve myslef.

It's truly made me feel good about my drugs.com friends. You guys have all been great asking questions, making suggestions, and just being there for me with ideas that should help me improve. At the end of the day it's motivating to know we DO HAVE SOME FRIENDS that actually care about us even though that surprises some people that anyone could possibly care in the least about a grumpy old fart like me.

Thank you to my most sincere friends, I am committed to doing anything I can do to help you as you've all been there on a daily basis for me. I love all you guys for the care and interest you've shown for me. It means more han you'll ever know. Thank you all for your interest in me and God bless.

[Freedom4me]

So glad you don't have to have that surgery now Robert. Keep on keepin on!!!!!

[notanotherday]

just wanted to say that i've been reading a lot of your posts all over the boards and that i am inspired by your strength and your wisdom. i feel lucky to have stumbled across you, the people here, and this site.
i can't imagine trying to live with your pain, the fact that you are doing it without narcs at this point is nothing short of a miracle.
we are all blessed with your presence here.
thank you.

[tobiclimber]

Hey Robert, I know that I havent been on here long. And i havent been one of the main people to express there support.But I figure gotta start somewhere so... I just wanted to say Im sorry to hear about all the things u are going through. I pray for U to get better soon and pray that God grant u every blessing U deserve. I cant speak for everyone but I can tell that everyone is very fond of yourself and your wife and that we are all very grateful for your ongoing compassion and support. You really are something special. I really mean that. With tha being said, all I can really say is Thank U for being u and God speed on your recovery. God bless and u are in my prayers. Talk soon.

[Robert_325]

Originally Posted by notanotherday

just wanted to say that i've been reading a lot of your posts all over the boards and that i am inspired by your strength and your wisdom. i feel lucky to have stumbled across you, the people here, and this site.
i can't imagine trying to live with your pain, the fact that you are doing it without narcs at this point is nothing short of a miracle.
we are all blessed with your presence here.
thank you.

I appreciate the kind words but please don't misunderstand me. For a short time I am going to be using some meds as I have to.

I will have to be using some RX meds for a very short time until I get this pain under control a bit more. It won't take me long though and will just be as absolutely necessary. We have to do the best we can at times and I'm trying my hardest.

Even on page 99 in the NA Basic Text talks about using meds responsibly when it's necessary. That is the key ... being responsible. I'm not doing a relapse or anything, but it will take me a few weeks undoubtedly to get things under control. God bless.

[notanotherday]

Originally Posted by Robert_325

I appreciate the kind words but please don't misunderstand me. For a short time I am going to be using some meds as I have to.

I will have to be using some RX meds for a very short time until I get this pain under control a bit more. It won't take me long though and will just be as absolutely necessary. We have to do the best we can at times and I'm trying my hardest.

Even on page 99 in the NA Basic Text talks about using meds responsibly when it's necessary. That is the key ... being responsible. I'm not doing a relapse or anything, but it will take me a few weeks undoubtedly to get things under control. God bless.

sorry, no, i got that. i meant more of overusing meds. *g* it amazes me that you were able to get that part of your life under control, and that you are able to be responsible about it. having had surgery yesterday, the only way i can be responsible is to give control to someone else. of course, i've only got, what, 12 days of being responsible under my belt too. it's amazing, using as needed is so not the same as using as wanted. i can't believe that in just a few short weeks, i went from taking a small handful for fun to taking a 1/2 tab because i truly need it, with it actually working. and that's how you've been inspiring to me. seeing someone else able to do all that you have done, and go through all of what you're going through, and still be responsible in the end is beautiful. does that make sense? i tend to ramble.

[TTTDogs]

Robert - we have not "spoke"before - but I have communicated with Melinda - she can fill you in - I just wanted to send my well wishes your way - and let you know you are loved by you forum family - you have created a powerful forum and I know I can speak for many others - - Thank You from the bottom of our hearts - we are now here for you - take care of yourself!

TTT

[Jacqueline_1980]

Robert, your faith and stamina and resolve is awesome! I am really happy to hear that you do not need a knee replacement. Not only do you help each and every person who needs you, but you are also a wonderful example of how to deal with pain while in addiction recovery. God Bless you Brother in Christ!

[Freedom4me]

People,
Can't we just all get along? lol. I personally don't want anyone to leave this forum because this place helped me to find the strength to stop taking pills for my pain. Really. I tried many times on my own but not until I came here did I really get it. Let's just respect each other and go from there. We all are going to have different takes on things. Heather, you are wonderful to try to protect Robert and Doc.rose you are wonderful for sticking up for a new person trying deperately to reach Robert. So, bottem line, you are both wonderful people trying to do the right thing. Good times, good people

[Robert_325]

C'mon guys! Let's stick this out together and be friends for what we've benefited and accomplished together.

We are family here. Don't give in to our volatile emotions you silly asses! And that includes me too!

I piss off people every day but I don't mean to and it's just something that happens ater the fact!

Where's the love? Seriously I say a prayer for everyone on here every night, even for the people who don't like me. I mean is it really that important?

Let's get out of ourselves and become the kids we used to be. Let it all go and let's move on. God bless all you clowns, me too! God bless.

[doc.rose]

I will let it go. You are right Freedom. We need to get along for the greater good! Have a great day everyone. I am in California and will be going to bed in a couple of hours. After SNL!!

[doc.rose]

Okay Robert!! Time to move on! I know you have your own issues going on this week. But if you could reach out to Anonymousgirl and make sure she knows you are there for her. She sounded as if she was desperate to correspond with you. She hasn't posted in a while. Thanks for all you do. And if my brother ever decides to take the leap to sobriety, I will send him in your direction for support!! I meant no harm with what I posted earlier and I did not personally attack anyone,just felt bad for anonymousgirl. I'm letting it go!!

[Robert_325]

You've got a deal. If your brother gets ready to change his life I'll be here to do anything that I'm able to help. I'm here if I can help. Take care and God bless.

[caughtagain]

Robert, glad to hear that a knee operation is not in order just yet... Yeah the lifestyle changes.... That is all positive, excercise diet etc... I heard about that too with my back. The good news with us addicts is we are good at making habits. 2 weeks Robert, that is all it takes is 2 weeks to develop a habit. What a wonderful habit to have, excercise. Go get em Robert. Have a blessed day my friend...... CA

[Robert_325]

Hi Reid .... I have decided to start this morning doing something with these necessary lifestyle changes that I know will help a lot. And It's all starting initially with a prayer each day and some significant time in the Word.

Starting this morning I'm going to begin with a raw vegetable, fruit and juice diet. Won't even drink diet soda or anything similar. It will be water and I'll have a couple cups of coffee for now. I know that won't hurt me. Dr has told me before about that type of diet reducing inflammation compared to a high protein diet like I'm accustomed to eating LOTS of grilled steaks.

I'm including this into a fasting program in my religious life. Last time I did this it really helped me a lot so I'm having faith that God will help me as I fast while spending more time studying the Bible. It all works together for me.

I'll let you guys know how things are going for me as I progress. God will lead me down the right path if I keep my eyes and ears pen lookgn for what He has to say. I will be in touch. God bless.

[Robert_325]

hey guys ...... It's always been truly amazing to me that when we do the next right thing for no other reason than beause it's the right thing period God works true miracles for us. He always has for me at least without ever letting me down. He's really an awesome God and HE loves us all. All we have to do is stand back and give HIM the chance to prove His worthiness. He never lets us down, At least I can say that he's never let me down yet. God bless.

[mottam]

Robert: I am very glad to hear that you do not need to go under the knife.
Like you have always stated, just continue to do the next right thing. I have learned a lot from you and this forum.
You are correct - with prayer and determination, you can overcome anything.

As always, you are in my prayers, and I wish you nothing but the best.

Thank you for always being there when I needed a kick in the butt during this latest attempt at recovery. I have really learned a lot this time around. I am learning more and more about myself, and what I can and cannot do (triggers).

Wishing you the best.

Your friend
Tom

[dalejrfan71]

Hi Robert,

I'm glad to hear that you do not have to have the knee operation just yet. . I've had 2 surgeries growing up and they are not fun, especially the dry heaves from the anesthetics. Congratulations on your up coming wedding to Melinda.

I wanted to say thank you for all the help and advice you have offered me. I thought I would let you know that my rheumatologist doctor is really concerned with how my back pain seems to be getting worse even though I am taking Percocets and Oxycontin for pain relief . He said that he is gonna talk to his colleague who happens to be a fellow rheumatologist doctor about what the hell is going on with my back.

[doc.rose]

Hi Robert! Hope you are feeling better!! when you get a chance, could you respond to addicted in seattle. He/she seems to be struggling and they have a question about xanax helping the symptoms. thanks