PERSONAL STORY: CARLENE

I am 28 a year old woman. I had my first laparoscopy in 1991, (I was 19 years old ), due to heavy bleeding and pain. I was diagnosed with endometriosis. In the last 9 years, I have had 12 surgeries (8 laparoscopies, a laparotomy, an appendectomy (just in case), a c-section (the birth of my miracle baby!), a partial hysterectomy (they removed my left ovary and my uterus, thus leaving my right ovary which is the side that I've had all of the pain on..?).

[During] the last laparoscopy they finally did remove my right ovary. But, I'm STILL in pain. Now "they" have told me that I still may have this pain for the rest of my life. I take on a daily basis - at least - 10 Vicodin ES, which in turn has caused other problems, constipation being the worst. I'm involved in the University of Washington Pain Center, at this point I'm willing to try anything. I've given you just a brief synopsis of my situation. There have been alot more details that I have left out, or I would be typing for days. I would love to talk about my story and hear others in hopes that we don't have to feel so alone.

I just started doing some research on the internet and felt relieved. I had no idea that so many other woman have the same problems as I do. People just don't understand what it is like to live with pain on a daily basis. It effects every part of your life. I'm taking anti-depressants which do help some. But, it still doesn't help the fact that alot of people including family, friends and doctors don't understand what it is that you're going through and then make the assumption that it's in your head. It's very frustrating.

I am married and I have a 3 year old son. I TRY to have a normal life, I work full time - most of the time, but have lost alot of jobs because of my medical problems. My marriage has also suffered problems because of this and I feel that my son has missed out on some things, too.

Carlene