Role Models

This first picture was sent to me by a friend. Taylor Swift is not the main reason for ME, but whoever made this swears that Taylor Swift and her music had a profound impact on her journey with this disease.

It is important to have role models, especially while you are growing up or experiencing trials. My family has always been a group of great role models to me in several areas. They stood by me every moment when I was trying to figure out why I was in pain so much. As far as other role models go, that's where my network came in. Meeting other people with RSD/CRPS was a godsend. I was able to vent my feelings to people who actually understood, ask questions and have them honestly answered, and find possible alternative treatments. The first person I talked to in length about CRPS was named Payton. Though she lives in another state (that I won't release to you for her own privacy), we were able to connect rather quickly. Payton runs and plays basketball even though she lives with daily CRPS pain. She is a trooper and really pushes through the pain in order to do what she enjoys doing most. She has always been a role model to me and whenever I start feeling down on myself or getting negative, I look at this photo:

Payton posted this on her wall a long time ago, but it still has a huge impact on me every day. It's a challenge, but more importantly, it's inspiration to get up and do what I want to do despite the pain I am experiencing. I may not be able to change my pain, but I AM able to change my attitude.

She reminds me that if she can do it, so can I!