United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Sometimes, and please don't take this wrong...it helps A LOT to keep away from message boards like this for a few days. I know I need regular breaks from it, even the one I host, otherwise I would be climbing walls too. The other thing to do is what you suggested...sleep or failing that, go for a good long walk to somewhere you don't often go. If you are lucky enough to live near the countryside, take a pair of binoculars and go birdwatching if you fancy it, or paints and canvas and go set up in a field somewhere and just paint or draw what you see. Doesn't matter if you think you can't paint or draw or whatever..just try it.

We all need to get right away from the results of this injury sometimes. All kinds of activities that don't focus on the arm help a lot with the pain, or our perception of it. Try it...you'll find something...

All the best
Lizzy B :0)

Lizzy~
You are 100% right. When I first found this board I was addicted. I read it 4 times a day and I got very down and started reserching everything I read and it consumed my life. I lost track of time and even days. My injury is 17 yrs old so its not that I'm new to my injury; just new to the boards. I had to stay away for awhile and even now I only check here and there and only respond if I think it can be a postive thing.
Advice:
Your injury will be there when you dye, its not going anywhere. Keep living your life, get out and see the world. Use your two strong legs and thankful it wasn't those you lost. Try a new food, read a love story, go sit at a park and watch children play. Your life isn't over! Find something postive from this injury, like being thankful your still alive.

Good luck Jamie and Gina. I'm happy my advice helped. Keep us posted and I'll say my prayers for you.
Kath