Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Support Group

Hello -

My name's Howard, and I'm very excited to be part of the new leadership team at MDJ-RSD. After a short hiatus, I am very happy to be rejoining this essential function.

I developed RSD after surgery on my right thigh in 1996; the pain was focused in my right toes. During the following years, I tried many of the available treatments, including nerve ablation (phenol), many neural blocks, an SCS, physical therapy, a psychologist specializing in CRPS/RSD, and many others.

Before having to leave in 2007 on disability, I was Professor of Medicinal and Organic Chemistry here in IL, and have been researching this monster ever since my Dx. I created and maintain a web site with loads of information on all aspects of CRPS and the life changes it causes. Called "The Definitive Library of CRPS/RSD, Chronic Pain, and similar conditions", it is available at the URL http://www.thblack.com/links/RSD/.

In January of 2010, I suddenly began losing my CRPS symptoms, and currently my only remaining symptom is terrible sleep, which is slowly normalizing with the help of my amazing acupuncturist. Now that I've recovered most of my energy, I want to continue serving the wonderful community of CRPS/RSD patients and caregivers who supported me when I was so desperately ill.

With my scientific medicinal background and years of research experience, if I don't know the answer to a scientific or medical question I can usually find it. I hope everyone will feel free to ask me any such questions. My goal is to answer all such questions as quickly and accurately as possible, as "knowledge is power" in this illness more than most.

My main goal for this great forum is for everyone to feel welcome, among supportive & loving friends, and safe enough to ask any question, no matter how strange or embarrassing it may seem, without fear of ridicule or inappropriate responses. As a leader, I promise to do my part as part of this great team to help make this forum the best it's ever been!

Howard

Hi! I am Jenny, and am delighted to have an opportunity to be of service to those of you who are suffering from CRPS or are supporters of patients dealing with CRPS.

I developed the disease following a foot surgery in 2011. I had been having conservative treatment for over a year prior to this surgery for pain in the ball of my foot developed playing tennis. I was an active, vibrant and energetic person, certified Yoga and Meditation Instructor, and a licensed Massage Therapist.

This disease has changed every aspect of my life. I am committed to being an advocate of CRPS awareness, and taking steps to inform patients with questions about this disorder; by supporting them through good days and bad; offering encouragement and resources to help get through the complications and often very painful journey that CRPS is.

I am also a member of RSDSA, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and promoting research into CRPS by donations. I hope that I can be of service to you.

Namaste,

Jenny

Hi, I'm Julie.I am honored as well as excited, to be part of the new leadership team here for RSD. I have had RSD for 6 years. It came on suddenly and changed my life, everything in my life.I was unable to bend my right knee it had locked, unable to remain in my job as an Educational Assistant to a student with acquired brain injury. I began the journey to find answers as to why I had this pain, swelling and inflammation.I went back to college thinking I could just change career, I graduated with distinction from the Career Development Practitioner program. I worked for a year in a computer lab/employment resource center as an Instructional Assistant for Seniors and people with disabilities.The pain interfered with my work and I also began to suffer from osteoarthritis in my hands. I left the world of work behind to adjust to my new life, whatever that may be.I found this site and it has been a blessing to me, it saw me through some very dark times. I want to help others through the dark times, to encourage, uplift and inspire them to live their dreams, aspire to achieve their goals.To hold onto hope and know that good things can come out of the bad and light can shine on the darkness.I feel fortunate to be able to give back the support, friendship and to teach as well as learn from others about RSD and the management of it.To co-lead with compassion,kindness and unity is indeed an honor and privilege.

Light, love,joy,peace,

Julie aka scorpioj