Daily blog

Day 52, A Day in the Life of a Chronic Pain Warrior

This morning, I woke up feeling like I could conquer the world. Despite my body screaming otherwise, I was ready to tackle the day with the energy of a caffeinated squirrel. My back pain, however, had other plans. Today, it decided to crank up the volume to eleven. Chronic back pain, spinal stenosis, almost no disk between L5 and S1, osteoarthritis in my hips, and tight muscles working overtime to support my frame—this is the kind of shit only those with the condition can understand.

And guess what I used for pain? Yeah, that's right, alcohol! At least it numbed me out to the pain. But now, here I am, sober and feeling every ounce of this pain full force. Not that I wuss out on my obligations because I don't. I force my way through it, and I get stuff done. I try to use the energy behind pain and anxiety to get through the day.  I'm a goal setter, and no candy ass, believe me. I used to work heavy construction outdoors in all kinds of weather, and I didn't care because I loved it! I'm resentful I can't do that type of construction work anymore.

Now, I have a decent-paying job, working remotely from home. I basically spend my workday polishing a seat with my ass for 8-10 hours a day. It sucks, but the money is decent, and it pays the bills (along with formerly fueling my alcoholism).

So, here's to another day of pushing through the pain, setting goals, and getting stuff done. Because that's what we chronic pain warriors do. We don't let the pain define us; we use it as fuel to keep moving forward.  Catch y'all later Gabriel.