David

I was working overseas in my dream job when two years ago, I developed chronic nerve pain.

It meant returning to Australia to find help, and kissing the job of a lifetime goodbye.

The pain is constant, in my arms and hands, legs and feet, and it’s severe.

I can’t sleep properly, I can’t think straight, and some days I can’t get out of bed.

I’ve even ended up in the emergency department because of the pain.

It feels like I’m slowly dying.

The opioid medication I take is as bad as the pain, because of the side effects, but I couldn’t cope without it. It’s about getting a fine balance.

Taking opioids carries a stigma. Some people think you’re a drug addict instead of someone with a medical condition trying to survive.

Initially I thought a doctor could find a cause and fix the pain, but after seeing numerous doctors, I realise that’s not the case.

I’ve been looking for treatments and am going to see a specialist interstate, trying to find a solution that will make my pain bearable.

I’ve tried different pain management programs. The strategies I learned are helpful only to a certain point.

The best thing about them, was meeting other people who live with pain. It can be a very isolating experience.

So far it’s been a pretty tough journey. Being a workaholic, the hardest thing is not being able to work.

I now realise I need to live with the pain, and learn how to get back into work, despite it.

I’m hopeful I can figure that out.