It has changed me in many ways. Was very angry depressed not being able to work.
Have learned to be kinder gentler to myself and that's been hard battle.
I've been used to pushing myself and body beyond normal boundaries all my life.
I started meditating, aroma therapy anything that works calm me. I stay physically active as much as I can as it really does help decrease the pain. Walking with dog friends etc. Helping mum weed garden.
I start off sore but always always feel so much better after.
I find being around people who understand and "get" it as in this forum helps immensely.
I found a huge change in myself and attitude after I volunteered at a crisis line for 2 years.
I now realize I could be so much worse off!
I'm so very grateful to be able to move and do what I do!
I have couch only days to-do days and good days.
I've come to realize I'm not going to allow pain to control me but I will do my body the favor of relaxing and healing days it desperately needs it.
I'll make no apologies for it it's ok by me now.
My so- so and good days are filled at times by force by myself to get going with things that bring me not.
If I don't bring joyful things back into my life who will?
There is alot of good days and life left in this Tin woman.
I'll just make sure the oil cans filled while dancing the road to Oz.❤❤❤

It has colored my life been in pain since aged 7, 48 now. 10 surgeries, 11 next month. I am as active as I can be but it affects most things

I try meditation sometimes it helps.

Sounds a lot like me. Gentle Hugs 🤗

I don't know if it has changed my identity. I see it as changing my quality of life and has made me into a recluse. I feel very lonely. But part of thst happening is because I am on dusability, dont wirkand am broke. I cannot affird to socialize any more. That sucks.