PLEASE DON'T USE UP QUESTIONS FOR COMMENTS!!!

[CGTMHI]

Hi everyone,

Once again we must ask that you only post QUESTIONS that are appropriate for Dr. Horvath to answer!  Of the top 5 supposed "questions" currently on the forum - only ONE requires an answer from Dr. Horvath.  There are people who are VERY frustrated because they can never get their REAL QUESTIONS posted in the forum.

ANYTHING THAT IS NOT A MEDICAL QUESTION NEEDS TO BE PUT IN AS A COMMENT.

We know you'll all respect their need for help in the future.

Best wishes,
Cindy

[Rex1]

Cindy,

Sorry. I got the info I need. Can you remove my question so others can post theirs?

(p.s. It seems as though he hasn't been answering questions for a while. The last one I see is the on the 10th, and his answer was two sentences long.)

Nevertheless, I'll leave the Q spost open for questions to him.

I am appreciative that you guys are here...

Rex

[Bodymechanic]

I hate to be contrary once again. There was a time when I would have agreed with you.  I had considered writing this same post.  Time has proven however, that these doctors don't answer questions.  "See your doctor" or "read other posts" are not the kind of answers desparate addicts need. Most are in a critical period in their lives.  Many simply can't or won't go to their doctors.  Their questions are almost always answered by fellow board members. Many of the questions are highly technical and require a good amount of research to answer correctly.  The research is invariably done by a board member. I know because I am one of the many people who answer these difficult questions.

My point is, I am happy there is an expert on board to answer questions. Go ahead an answer them.  Look at any tread, there are many questions. Pick a hard one and answer it.

No disrespect meant here. This is just how it is.

Peace

[lisabet]

Sorry, Cindy, I agree with Bodymechanic. The doctors comments (on the addiction forum, anyway) is pretty useless. I have found more help and information from the participants on this forum, than I've ever had from any doctor, online or personal. (I do commend the doctor on the Neurology forum, however, who really gave me a lot of insight about the pain and numbness in my feet).  I guess what it boils down to is no one is more insightful about drug addiction than an addict, recovering or otherwise. I rely heavily on the advise of BM - Thomas - Bmac, etc., who has learned the life lessons of really living this demon called addiction.  Some are recovered, some not, but all their posts are so valuable to me, because they come from years and years of experience.  Then there are the recovering people like hippee or Rex1 who come forward also with their experiences who never fail to inspire me. Rex's recent post about his back pain may seem off-course to others, but most of us have gotten hooked on opiates or whatever because of pain in the first place. I think it was a very legitimate post, 'cause when we finally kick the drug dependency, we still have to deal with the pain that got us hooked in the first place.  I appreciate your forum Cindy; it is slowly helping me get my life back, which is why I felt I needed to post this; hopefully you understand. Respectfully, Lisabet

[MethMan]

Interesting.
Rex felt the need to say he was "sorry" for receiving helpful information.  The good doctor must have emailed him the help he needed. Maybe it was the help received from board members instead.

Peace,
Mike

[hippy]

good morning too all.
i find just reading the post of others helpful.
i have always been a big supporter of community,
my experence is that an addict alone  is in bad company.
haveing people in our lives is so very important.
just reading a post with a little humor sometimes go's a long
way in making the day more bearable.
one thing about getting clean is getting feelings like
empathy and compassion back in our daily lives.
while i was caught up in the addiction of the pills
the only feelings i think i felt were fear and dread.
it's nice to come to the fourms and feel some joy and encouragement.

peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jennibean]

Why is everyone trying to get digs in at the Dr and the forum. We know the rules and the only reason any of us have eachother is because of this forum. So let's just follow the rules and quit
complaining. The questions are for people who need the Dr, he cannot search through all of the comments to find the real questions. I think it is damn kind of him to come here at all to help any of us. If you are not happy with his answers all of the time well just know that there isn't always one solid answer to a question, also if he does not know the answer I would rather have him refer to another post on the board. And if it is a medical question that he feels needs to be answered by your own Dr then he is right in telling you to ask your Dr. One thing about these forums is that the Dr's cannot do hands on examination of the people here which makes it difficult to answer every individual medical question. We are also all very different and he would be a fool to just put any old answer down to a qestion he may not be able to answer without seeing us or having more information. I'm sorry I just got really annoyed at some of these posts today, It all comes from working in management and knowing that you just cannot make everybody happy. People complain constantly. To hear some of you implying that the Dr has not helped and that it was the people here who helped is irritating to me because you should look at the Dr's title and experience and ask appropriate questions if your question is not one that can be answered by him then post it under the commenst for the people here to help and leave the space for questions that are appropriate for this Dr's experience. I really enjoy this forum in the short time I have been here but I have never heard so much complaining in my life! I personally think though that Rex's question was appropriate for the Dr to answer and I am not sure that was even one of the questions they were reffering to. Anyway sorry to be such a downer I am still irritated from my husbands Christmas party, the company (phone company)doesn't do anything so his boss was nice enough to spend his own money and provide dinner for 150 people in his department. I was so shocked to hear everyone complaining that the drinks were not free or that the party was lame. For crying out loud he didn't have to do anything at all. Just as this Dr does not have to take time out of his day to answer any of these questions. He does it to help if and when he can! On that note I hope this didn't sound harsh because it was not meant to. I have no place really to tell any of you what to do but I do have a right to express my feelings. For today let's all try to be greatful that we have anybody willing to help us and a place we can come together and share our experiences and most of all our fears and frustrations and have people that actually understand because if most of you are like me you don't have anybody in you real world that actually does understand. I have become the misfit poor little lost soul surrounded by all the poeple who managed to stay on the right path who are probably just sitting there judging me as we speak.
PEACE!
Jen

[lisabet]

Jen, I think you've overreacted a little to this thread. All everyone was doing was giving our civilized opinions; I don't think anyone had any intention of being rude or ungrateful.  Of course you're entitled to your opinion, as do I.  Regards, Lisabet

[teeitup]

I hate to ask this under this thread but I need some guidance and y'all are the ones I've come to trust.

10 days ago when I decided to clean up I also confronted a long time friend who I knew was in trouble. She thanked me for doing it. I told her I wanted her to tell her best friend and husband (I know well) by the weekend or I would! She has contacted the friend who in turn called and thanked me but told me she has not told her husband.

Should I stick to my guns and tell her husband Monday or give her more time or butt out all together. I know she cannot clean up on her own!

Thank you all, you've all helped me in some way no matter the comment!

[Rex1]

So I started this thread, and it should end here.

Thanks for all the comments.

To summarize: I know that this forum is valuable to me, but costs me nothing. It does, however, cost them (Cindy, ATH) money to run, to which I have not contributed to (yet).

I should ask questions like this is a comment, and not as a main topic.

Thanks to all who repsonded...

Death to this thread.....

Rex

[lisabet]

I think I'd let her be the one to decide to tell him. Sounds like she made a first step by telling her friend, so I think I'd leave the ball in her court. Ultimately, she has to be the one to decide whether she wants to quit or not, no one can force her hand.  Just be there for her; she'll probably need you.  Love/Peace, Lisabet

[minime]

Um sorry for butting in but if you can never post a question how are you supposed to ever get an answer except for to ask it where comments are supposed to go?

[lisabet]

Hi there (love your user name); guessing you're an Austin Powers fan. The best thing to do is just break a thread near the top and ask your question. We all do it all the time. Just be sure to do it on a top thread; that way most people will see it. Are you a new poster?  Welcome! There's so many great people here that is more than happy to answer any questions you have. If you have a drug problem, you've come to the right place. I've learned so much in the past couple of months, mostly just by reading others posts.  Go thru the archives - check out posts by Bodymechanic, hippee, thomas (who supplies the "recipe" that has helped so many strugglers, including myself), bmac, southernbell, suzieneedshelp, Rex1 and so many others.  I've come to realize they are real people like you and I, dealing with the same problems, and life as an addict isn't nearly as lonely when you realize this.  (FYI-I've been fairly successful in tapering hydros from 12 to 5 or 6 a day, and have pretty much stayed out of the Jack Daniels bottle for the last couple of weeks)...I never thought I could come as far as I have.  Please post and don't be embarrassed to ask anything. Love/Peace, Lisabet  :)

[Rex1]

On you on track for Jan 1st?

Rex

[Jennibean]

I know I was overeacting, that is what I tried to say in there as well that my feelings on this are stemming from other things going on in my life so it just struck a nerve that was already struck, that's all. I usually don't post anything that could be construde as confrontational or controversal it's not usually my style so that is how I know I am not myself lately. I am struggling right now like so many other's here. And that is also why I said it was just my opinion because I was just thinking out loud today and I guess the thing is I always try to be greatful for all of the things I have in my life as well as the people in my life and right now I am having a hard time doing that because I hear other people in my life who don't have any major problems right now complaining about **** that doesn't matter but you know what? I cannot wait until my life is so good again that all I have to complain about is trivial ****. Anyway I'm tired from acting like a baby all day, I feel so tense, like a tight string that is about to break. Didn't mean to subject you all to it.

Rex, you have been so motivational to me and because of you I started weaning, you had faith in me and everyone here and it gave me strength. Just wanted to thank you. Also I replied in a long post to everyone who responded to me the other day but I don't see it anywhere. So I wanted to say thanks to all who responded and helped. Your words mean so much to me! If I am crabby here for a while that is actually a good sign that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. I will try to keep my irritability off this board. I am actually a really nice person or at least I was and hope to be again soon.

Jen

[Rex1]

Jen,

You are the inspiration here - not me. If you and Lisabet and the others on the taper challenge, can pull off this taper to zero thing, you will have taken the torch from me, that was passed to me by the veterans (BodyM,Methman, Hippee, etc).

Make it happen - its so much better when you are on this side of the wall! Yeah, my back still hurts, but hey, what else is new?

Your journey may be into becoming a nice person again. Mine is to become the anti-wimp I used be (tough as nails, as a matter of fact). Thats one thing the Vikes did to me, turned me from a fairly strong person into one constantly complaining about pain. What did people in this world do before drugs?

I am going to find out...please join me...

I know you will win this thing. Get tough, mean, nasty, ugly, and refuse to give in. When you taper and succeed, realize the victory to yourself over and over.

Most of all - thank God for His Grace. It comes in its most potent form around Christmas time for a reason...

Love to you guys...stay strong!

Rex

[HLM]

I was looking at all the comments and questions on this forum...none of it can answer my question, and it is really sad. i have aproblem but not a serious one, if there was someone that had a sreious problem and needed help, they couldn't get it here because of all the **** on here! No one can post a question because there is no room! Can we do something about it?

[southernbelle]

I couldn't find your question....it's probably just me and it's somewhere listed below.  Ask it again in your thread, you'll get some support.  It's hard to get the "official" question spot.  But we are all here to help each other.  You will find support and love here.  Stick around.  
Peace and love to everybody, really!

[southernbelle]

hope you all had a good weekend.  i'm doing the best i can.  and even thought that's not worth a darn, that's still the most i can do.  at least that's what my daddy used to tell me when i was little...."if you're doing the best you can do, then you're okay."  I'm in a good deal of pain, but nothing i can't handle right now.  It's still the mental game with me.  My psychiatrist and her medicine seem to be helping.  I have noticed the anxiety lessening.  If I can get a handle on that, then I know it will be okay. Because the anxiety is a *****!  I meet with her again today.
Peace and love to all of you, really!  I'm thinking about everybody here.

[Oxyclean]

Hi! I am new here and was wondering how do you post a question if you can't post it here? I have read a lot of great info here and trust you people over the doctors because we have experenced this first hand. I have been taking Oxy since March and have been tapering it down. I take 20 in the morning, 20 in the afternoon and 10 at night. I will be cutting down tomorrow to 10 in the afternoon. I was taking 160 at a time a few months back. Any advice on the taper when I get to the 10, 10 and 10? My doctor really doesn't know what she is doing with this and is basicly leaving it up to me. Thank you all for your time!

[shubunkin]

I was wondering if any of you have experience with Xanax or Benzo's. I have tapered myself down to 1 mg a day. Is there really that much of a risk of sezures with these thing? I have been on them not quite a year. Thanks

[southernbelle]

good name!  just look through the archives and old posts here and you'll find some info.  And be sure to stick around, there are some great people here who can give you honest support and advice.  as far as posting a question, if you don't "luck up" (it's sort of like the question of the day)...just ask a question in your post like you just did.  the folks here will do there best to be supportive.  as far as me, i'm a wreck, so i can't offer you much advice right now.  i can still you, though and tell you that you are doing the right thing.  be strong.  love and peace to you.

[southernbelle]

i wish i could offer you some advice on that.  i'm just now starting on valium myself, prescribed for intense anxiety by my psychiatrist.  stay in touch here.  i know withdrawing from them is, or could be, dangerous.  maybe you should talk to your doc.  either way, we've all been there in one way or another, so stick around here.  you'll be able to talk to people who understand.  wish i could help more, i can atleast tell you that i care for you and you are not alone.  love and peace to you.

[shubunkin]

Thankyou so much for your response. You are very kind. Love and peace to you also! Danielle

[Oxyclean]

Thank you, I know I am doing the right thing. It is just soooo hard. My husband is handing out the meds so I do not take them by the handfull. That is the only way I am going to be able to taper. He has them hidden away somewhere. I feel like a baby but if it works, great! Do you think I will go through withdrawal if I taper slowly? Anyone out there has done this with Oxy? Thanks again!

[southernbelle]

you will go through withdrawals, but they won't be anything at all like they would be if you went cold turkey.  you'll be okay.  and remember....it doesn't kill you to GET OFF the drugs, it just kills you to stay on them.  i'm only learning as i go along, but i do know that it's a day by day thing....i just try to get through each day and try not to think too much about next week or next month or anything.  i just take it one day at a time.  no matter what, it will all be okay!  it really will.  love to you.

[lisabet]

Hi Jen - no need to explain; believe me I certainly have my days and no one can stand to be around me (I can't even stand myself, and that's bad!)...smile  This tapering is hard; I'm not cutting back drastically at one time; today I've cut back from 6 to 5, and I'm already missing that extra one I can't have! I feel like such a weak loser sometimes!!!  But I'm trying, that's all we can do.  Hope you're feeling better today. Don't worry about venting; it's a healthy way to get rid of anger. The only times I've seen it's caused a problem on the forum, is when it gets personal; that's usually when Cindy will step in and say "Enough"!  :)  So fun being an addict and always teetering on the edge emotionally...smile.

Rex - hey guy! Please don't be disapointed in me, but I really don't think I'm going to be totally clean by Jan. 1st. Today I've cut back from 6 to 5, and it's already killing me. But I do promise to do my best. It's just so hard to think about a life without the pills. I'm feeling like a wimp today; guess it comes through, huh?  How's the back today?  Have you found any of the suggestions the others made that helped?  Hope you're managing your pain.  Have a good day - I appreciate your support.
Lisabet

[ChiTownGirl]

1. Oxyclean.  The best taper schedule I have managed to follow is to decrease the amount of pills you are taking per day by 1 or 2.  My advice is to taper as slow as you can, it doesnt make the WD's too bad this way.  Also, is there anyway you can get Clonidine and maybe Trazadone to help you sleep?  I am currently using both to help myself taper off of a 15-20 day VIC ES habit.   So far I have managed to get myself down to about 2-3 pills and am shooting to be drug free by JAN 1st, thanks to REX's challenge for everyone.

2. Vicojen,  don't worry we all have those days when everything seems to irritate us.  I agree with you about people complaining, it drives me insane sometimes and the stupid stuff they complain about is really funny if you think about it.

3.  REX - I am slowly succeeding in my tapering schedule, many thanks to you.

To everyone, keep an angel on your shoulder today!  CTG.

[Rex1]

Way to go guys!

Lisabet - don't look forward without looking back. You have already significantly cut your dosage and that's the important thing!

ChiTownGirl - use Jan 1st as the ultimate motivator, although I will say this - for me, being off work is the time when I want to be Cold Turkey. I did this during Thanksgiving break. It gave me time to work on the stress, which I believe is the main contributor to my pain. Also, more time to go to the hot tub, walk, relax, ect.

Both of you should strongly consider doing this, maybe not on Christmas day, mind you, but maybe between Christmas and New Years if you are off work or slow at work, like I am.

Remember, you are the leaders now, proving that if you can do it, others can too. I believe there is power in groups!

Rex

[Pinkit]

I agree with lisabeth.  You are being way too harsh, but you do have your opinion which is fine.  Bodymech was right though. I don't post alot anymore, but I do read the forum daily. Anything I normally want to ask has already been asked so I just read what people wrote. I have not seemed to get any help from what the doctor writes though. I normally have to read what everyone else writes to get it answered. Bodymech's answers seem to be very truthfull and research so I normally go by what he writes.  I also think it's very nice that the doctor does take time out of his day to answer questions, but I don't really consider them to be answeres though.  It's normally "talk to your doctor"  "Go to another websight".  I'm sorry, but I don't find that at all helpful.  If someone has a question for the doctor I don't think his answer should be to "talk to your doctor".  I don't think we need a doctor to tell us that as an answer.  Sorry, I don't mean to be rude. I just think you were out of line.  Go back and read the research alot of these people on the board do to answer our questions, then go back and read the answers the doctor writes.  They are usually 2 sentences.

[Pinkit]

Hey! Sorry if my last post was rude. Please don't get upset. You're going through a tough time, like alot of us. You need to let it out somewhere. I've been like that alot lately too.
Bodymech, I just wanted to thank you for all the help you've givin me any so many others. You're research has helped me so much.
Rex, I wanted to thank you for being so insperational. You have also helped me so much with my tapering.
Love to all,
Pink

[southernbelle]

Just wanted to "second" that last post...rex, bodymech, all of you.....i wanted to say thanks to all of you for your support.  i'm still a wreck, don't get me wrong....but this place feels like a safe haven and i need that so much right now.  thanks again to everybody.  i'm here for anybody that needs an ear or shoulder, too.  love and peace to all of you, mean it!

[ChiTownGirl]

We are here for you too, especially me - I have always enjoyed your "warm" posts to other members.  Consider good thoughts sent your way today!  CTG.

[lisabet]

hey Pink - I think Jen was just having a bad day. As my companion of 9 years tells me when I'm in those moods - You open your mouth and the venom spurts forth!...smile.  (He also tells me I probably need to go back to bed; I usually comply!)  :)

[AlexisInTx]

I have contacted a doctor, an addictionologist, a psychiatrist, a phone counselor and they all seem as if there is not one iota of caring in what they've said to me.  I've told them the situation in re: to my prescription drug usage, the fact that I'm feeling as if I don't know how much more I can actually take, that I've been depressed for 10 years yet I haven't been taking prescription drugs but for 1.5 years and they end up saying in essence, 'well, cheer up and I hope your evening gets better.' WTF.

I'm not trying to look to others to make myself well, I need to take the bull by the proverbial horns and take MY OWN responsibility for my own personal actions or inactions, but I'm feeling very, very ill.  Not only mentally, but physically as well.  I've been sick to my stomach (throwing up all night), have been suffering with rhumatoid arthritis for some freaking reason for the last several months and have been dealing with a pre-teen who I love dearly but is asserting her independence and tells me which way is up and that I don't know diddly about the world and she will not listen to what I'm trying to tell her and keep those lines of communication open - I'm probably not the best parent right now, but I'm really trying like hell to be there for them.  I want to keep the lines of communication open alwyas between the two of us (I have another daughter who tells my eldest that she needs to be more respectful - long story).  I want to be a soccer mom, but that's just not me I guess.  

My point yet again is that I feel as if I just can't make it right now.  I'm in e-mail contact with Samaritans based out of the U.K. which help, but I need to see a doctor in real life, which I'm making an appt. for tomorrow.  I'm unsure how this is going to be handled because it seems as if everyone I speak with doesn't understand.  I feel it's DUMB to think of suicide as being an alternative, but my other side tells me different (I would never do it).  I feel as if I'm living in an uncolored world, and want to paint it.  I want to go back to the time when I was very young, around 6 or so (1970's) and sit next to that painter who lived next door and painted our house  -- we listened to "Song, Sung, Blue" and, "Summer Breeze by Seals and Croft" - times were uncomplicated then, they were full of pure and sweet joy and I caught fireflies at night (lived in Chicago) only to put them in a jar with holes punched out of the lid and find them dead in the morning - that was the only bad thing I can remember about those days.  That and when I was left behind when my older sisters and brother would go out and leave me behind with my parents - I wanted to go with them, but of course I was only 6  and couldn't go out on dates yet.  Oh, and that time my brother gave me cough syrup at night and stuck the spoon down my throat (I think it was on purpose I bet). :)

I promise I will contribute back one day soon to all of you, but I feel utterly sick, mentally and physically now.  I had to get this out.  Thanks for being there for me, if even just to listen, no one else seems to.  

I'd love to hear of everyone's favorite childhood memory - don't you love reminiscing about uncomplicated times?  I know I need to be asking questions, so here is one:  is there any compassionate, caring doc in the Houston area that could possibly help with depression and depression related addiction?

Thanks for listening.

[teeitup]

I live a hundred miles from Houston, let's talk. Email me at ***@****. I'd like to give you a number to reach me by if you'd like!

[AlexisInTx]

Thanks so much teeitup, I'll be contacting you sometime shortly.  I certainly appreciate the offer and will be taking you up on your offer (very) soon.  I actually made a doctor's appt. today and am getting ready to leave now for it, we'll see how it turns out and what comes of it.  

Take care in the meantime.

[Chezz2]

Autumn,
I can respect from where you are coming from even though I don't have kids.
I have thought about it if I did. How much I would want to tell them to ENJOY their childhood. To not just live for the day they are "old enough"...
Life is full of enjoyment, finding it is the challenge...
Chezz

[lisabet]

Good morning! I'm feeling a lot better this morning. I've considered the Cold Turkey method (for about 2 minutes)...smile. It might actually be the best way for me, I don't know. I hope something just "clicks" one day and I'll know that's it. I do know this morning I feel more like my "old" self than I have in a long, long time...of course tonight I may be back on here whining (smile) but this morning I feel great.  Hope everyone has a great day.  Love/Peace, Lisabet

[percsnomas]

Morning Lisabet!
Been following your struggles for a while now, and just wanted you to know, you are winning many "small battles", that I'm sure will result in you being free from the seemingly almighty opiate!!
I've felt all of the things you describe, in my struggles; and tomorrow will be 4 months off percs......and I continue to ask myself why didn't I quit sooner, as I feel GREAT now. I guess the answer would have to be fear. So these lit'l battles will culminate in quashing that fear.
I'm pulling for you.
Percs No More

[teeitup]

glad you doing better, remember less today than yesterday.

good work!
teeitup!

[lisabet]

Percs - 4 months clean! Congratulations! I always enjoy your posts, and your recovery is so uplifting. I need to hear people say they actually feel good after getting clean. Do you ever get cravings?  How do you handle them? This is my biggest fear more than getting clean is staying that way. Please keep posting; you and so many others here are an inspiration to us "strugglers"

Teeitup - thanks for the encouragement. How are you today?

Love/Peace to all, Lisabet

[teeitup]

Doing good, been on vacation this week. Had hand surgery 5 weeks ago and have not been able to participate in my other addiction "Golf". Went today to practice and did alright. My big test will be this weekend, before I always took an extra hydro for that little pick me up when I played. I've got to be strong and not back slide if I don't play well.

thanks for your concern!
Teeitup!

[percsnomas]

I know many here will probably doubt it, but I SWEAR I DON'T CRAVE percs anymore. I know Bodymechanic, and others have stated that you will always have your addiction, and that you(a person) are perhaps only a bad day away from relapse....leading into the whole biochemical discussion. My opiate consumption definately ran its course(many years), from back surgeries, to losing my mom suddenly(as well as 4 other close friends/family this year), so maybe thats why i feel the way i do.
Of course i'll always "have" the addiction, meaning that I know 1 more perc would be too many and 10,000 not enough; so i kind of put it in the perspective of a person with a peanut allergy....just can't eat peanuts.  I DON'T feel i'm missing anything either(the buzz, the energy, the pill-confidence, etc),as all of those short lived properties were gone sooo  long ago.  This may also have to do with simply growing up, sure it took me longer(now 40yrs old), but I've read many addiction papers....citing people simply(not to be confused with 'that its simple') growing out of their addiction.
You asked me, and I am telling you, WITHOUT BLOWING SMOKE UP YOUR ASS.
Also, for those that think I'm bullshitting or fooling myself, please don't respond by trying to convince me otherwise.....I KNOW HOW I FEEL
Percs(NO MORE)

[Chezz2]

Percs,
I know how you feel. I am the same way.
Like you know I have had these episodes with my back 3x. I have always taken meds for them. Most time was 8-9, got off the meds, dealt with the w.ds then moved on.
It happens...
I am sure that what will happen once I get the surgery, get rid of the symptoms of my pain and don't have to take the meds anymore.
Until then it is still a battle...
Chezz

[percsnomas]

....a battle that will end with a 1.5 inch scar above your butt crack; NO MORE REFERRED PAIN, no more meds, and you and your Canadian buddy sitting in a bar having a cold one laughing about all the **** a person has to go thru in this crazy but wonderful world.
Have a good one brother!!

[lisabet]

Percs - thanks for sharing. It would be absolutely lovely to wake up in the morning and not think about those damn pills. Maybe for some people - it's like a bad relationship - you finally get to the point when you say "enough" and finally mean it, and finally get on with your life. I'm so happy for you that you've succeeded in getting clean and loving it.  

Teeitup - Ummmmmm, how did I suspect you were an avid golfer? (Cool user name!)... :)  That's a pisser about your hand surgery - every golfer's nightmare, I'm sure.  Good luck when you get back out there; better take it easy to start out. I myself need to find a couple of hobbies (to keep my mind off those "you-know-whats")...smile.  

Love/Peace, Lisabet

[CGTMHI]

My sincere "thank you" to Vicojen for so eloquently putting MY feelings into words!

Some of you seem to complain about EVERYTHING!  I have read the doctor's comments and find them to be VERY helpful!  IN some cases he's not qualified to answer some of the questions you have asked and he clearly states this.  In others, he is 100% right to refer people back to a prescribing physician.  We cannot offer you guys quick fixes to your problems - it would be impossible and irresponsible!  The doctor is here to help people who need him and I for one thank him from the bottom of my heart, for volunteering his time & expertise to this purpose.

Geez!  We're in the season of GIVING - so give us all a break and stop this incessant complaining!  I would think you might be thankful to have a FREE place to get qualified advice & voice opinions.  Opinions don't ALWAYS have to be negative ya know!!

Cindy

[lisabet]

Why is it that when one voices their own thoughts, it's an opinion?  But when others do it it's complaining?  ..smile
Just a thought. No offense meant towards anyone; I'm as guilty as anyone else.  Actually, for a bunch of addicts, I think we get along pretty well with each other.
Still feeling good this afternoon - think I'm finally feeling the results of this tapering thing - thanks to everybody that's helped!!!!   Love you all, Lisabet

[peaz]

Congratulations on four months tomorrow!!! That is truly awesome, and the fact that you are feeling so well, physically and emotionally, makes it even better! I'm proud of you.
    What the HELL do you mean---you don't CRAVE percs anymore???!!!!  Get real!!! :-) Just kiddin'............I feel exactly the same way as you do.  I DON'T think about drugs or pills, I DON'T crave them, and if I would say either one of those things in my Professional Group or AA they would make the Sign of the Cross and start mumbling about how my sorry ass is going to relapse.....All I can say is, I must be doing something right, 'cause that year anniversary is only 20 days away, so leave my ass out of it!!!!  But then, those Canadians, they're a whole 'nother ball a'  wax.......
    Keep up the great work.  Peaz

[teeitup]

Let us know how you are?

[percsnomas]

My dear Peaz......JAN.7th; JAN.7th; JAN.7th.....yeha
Thanks for the kind words!!!!
Look at you girl 1 year.

All i can say is you have been nothing but inspiration, and helped me keep my focus in the early shakier days....
....gotta fly, but take care
LOL Percs No More

[suzieneedshelp]

Sorry i have not been here much but i wanted to say that i am here for you!  Plz e-mail me ***@**** and i would like to give you my number also.  I have a young daughter who is very strong willed and would love to share our struggles with ya.  I feel for your struggle and would gladly be an ear or a shoulder if you need it.  How did the Dr. appointment go?  So many of em are plain jerks unfortunately.  Hope you found a truley caring one.  
Suzie

[percsnomas]

Lisabet, you asked me something, and in answering it, we revealed 3 people on the last part of this thread alone, that are/or have done well off the meds; and really have a happy life after the pills. Yes Chezz is back on temporily, until his imminent(sp?) surgery.... but he'll be off again, that I'm certain.
So now I'd like to ask you something, will you please join us?
We could really use the company......

Percs

[lisabet]

Percs - I want that SO bad - I'm not going to make any false promises - on this forum I want to be totally honest (unlike with my family and friends, whereas although I don't really lie, they just don't know the whole truth).  You, Rex1, WitchyWoman, Peaz and Chezz and others have shown me you can have a life after drugs. Believe me, I am soaking this up - it's inspiring me every day. Bless every one of your hearts; you enrich my spirit every day when I read the posts. I'm beginning to feel stronger; I've felt better today than I have in ages.  FYI: My boyfriend bought my son and I a new computer for Christmas (Dude, you have a Dell!)...smile.  Anyway, he and I are going to try to hook it up tomorrow, but since we're both "mechanically challenged" about hooking these things up (smile), don't be surprized if I don't check in for a few days! Wanted to let you know cause I always wonder about people who post frequently and then all of a sudden you don't hear from them (just the worrisome Virgo in me)....Love to you all, Lisabet

[Rex1]

Glad to hear things are moving along.

On that new computer, keep in mind, that's not a coffee cup holder, its called a "CD-ROM drive" ;-).

Rex

[oxic]

Hey, no pressure......whenever you are ready; you will know. Just know I'm(we're) here ANY time you need us.
You were absolutely right about it being like a BAD RELATIONSHIP, that sooner or later you will end.
It was the most one-directional relationship I've ever been in. Starts off teasing you, that it's going to be fun/euphoric; next thing you know, TAKE TAKE TAKE, relentlessly taking your body and soul.

Thanks for the heads up about the cmpt......would definately been wondering/worrying what happened to you.
Please take care.
Percs No More

[oxic]

.....oxic is my at home handle....sorry for any confusion.

[lisabet]

Percs - Thanks sweetie; your support helps me more than you'll ever know. Thank God for you and the others here - Luv you all! Your success and strength is making me stronger.

Rex - hey bud; wondered where you were today. How are you feeling? Ready for the holidays??? You are such a good soul. "Blessed are the peacemakers...."  sorry-I forgot the verse, but this is how I always think of you.  

Love/Peace to all, Lisabet

[Rex1]

I don't think I have ever had a nicer compliment than that.

I think that everytime there are "issues" here, I think that they're insignificant compared to the forums main goal, which it to help each other.

Perhaps I shouldn't step in where I have not been asked, but you know it doesn't matter.

There are so many here that will be free or near free on Jan 1. This will be a great day for all of us...

I want to tell you that my heart just goes out to you everyday - I read everyone of your posts and I think you are doing great.

Don't forget to look at your progress daily, and ask yourself, if I slip up now, what will my next attempt be like? How much more difficult for me.

I have had some tremendous temptations the last couple of days, I mean Vicodin within arms length, just for the asking.

The thing that is keeping me from failling back into the quicksand is you, and the others here that I have challenged for Jan 1. That, and the bit about each detox being worse than the last...

Lisabet, sometimes God has a real impactful way of getting your attention. Maybe He's trying to get your attention.

Pray, be strong, and be tough, mean, nasty and down outright ornary towards these drugs.

Your winning!
Rex

[peaz]

Hi percs---Just a quick question that's not really addiction related but it's something I need advice on, so just DEAL w/ it, will ya??
  I don't know if you remember or not, but a few months ago I wrote that I pulled a glute doing squats or leg presses--one of the two--doesn't really matter---but it STILL hurts and is tender.  Is there anything I can do?  I haven't really given it more than a two-day stretch to heal, but it seems like after I warm up and get going, it's reasonably bearable.  But then, in the evening and at night in bed it's a killer.  I know you are a gym rat and can help me out.  I walk like I've either been riding horses for a week or------well, nevermind.  Can you help?   Peaz

[percsnomas]

....or, like the Pony was parked a lit'l too long in the Coral........
Yes i remember when you did this; right about the time I pulled my traPEAZeus.
Well it sounds like it didn't heal, after the acute injury. At the time you told me about it, i dismissed it as a slight muscle pull, and that it would simply go away. I'm hoping you didn't tear something, but I would still bet, it's (tendon and/or muscle) inflamed, and not getting a chance to "settle" down with the continued work-outs (obviously). Did you use ice right after the injury??  Have you used any anti-inflamms? I would try one of those, or you could go the L-Glutamine(no pun intended) route, although that seems to take forever to start working....and it definately has mixed reviews at our house of iron.  MAYBE IT'S TIME FOR A VISIT TO THE DOC.?....not for narcs though haha
I do know I've pulled, strained, stretched ever muscle in my body over the 20 years i've been working out....with the worst being the result of some ultra heavy french presses(for tricepts)....felt like my tendon was coming thru the skin. It took almost a year before it felt better; because of course a guy doesn't want to take any time off to let it heal properly.
Sorry i can't be of more help. Too bad you couldn't load up a 3cc syringe with Nandrolone Deconate(aka Deca Durabolin), as it seems to be a real popular choice for those kinds of aches and strains, with some of the BIG guys I know. Instead of riding the horse, you could become the horse.............
LOL, Perky

[peaz]

Oh Hell No, I didn't ice it!! That makes WAY too much sense.  I'm sure I needed to get going somewhere.  And it doesn't hurt after workouts--it's later in the day.  I have been taking IBU the last few days or so, and I thik that helps.  During my workout this morning, I had  an enlightening thought: (If this is boring to other readers, exit now. ) Last January I had surgery on my LEFT foot (this is important) to get rid of some bone spurs that ran ON TOP of my foot, directly where some nerves converge.  Great.  So now, when I bend my LEFT foot back to do say, a back lunge, it hurts my LEFT foot to bend (To deepen the lunge) and as a consequence, my RIGHT glute is taking the extra punishment from babying my left foot.  Is this confusing for you, because it is for me to type it, let me tell ya......But don't you think that's why it won't heal?  
      I think, possibly, if I would quit doing those movements (God forbid) enough for it to heal, I could avoid further trauma.  But 85% of my workout is lunges, squats, leg presses and the like.  I might as well sit and eat bon-bons.....
      I know what you mean about the French presses.  I do  4 reps of 8 w/ 15 lbs.  w/ an extra 4 for good measure, (the slower the better :-) and I'm talking to God by the time I'm done.  I don't use a lot of weight---don't want to bulk up.
      Thanks for your input.  I will try the ice tonite and take more IBU.  I was thinking this is a perfectly GOOD time for some beefed-up narcs.......
    Your horse/'roid joke was funny! (said in a very deep voice while I'm combing my mustache..)  Later--Peaz

[peaz]

Hi people---I just wanted to apologize for my lengthy, irrelevant postings yesterday......I had read others' rock band choices and motocross stories, so I thought it would be okay to digress.  No harm done, I guess, but just thought I'd let you know from now on my aches and pains will be relegated to e-mail.  Have a great holiday, everyone!  Peaz

[percsnomas]

Well I guess. What were you thinking??
Don't you know it should always be:
Q.)
"Hi, i'm so-and-so, and i like pills. Well they've taken over my life. I'm scared to death. What do i do?"
A.)
"Do you have the pathology that requires meds? Can you taper off the pills....most people can't. Have you started the Thomas Recipe? You are not alone. Post your story."

.........geesh, to think that we'd actually want to put a face/personality to a recovering addict......How presumptuous.

Don't let it happen again.
Percs

[peaz]

Well, just for THOSE smart remarks, young man (!) I will give you a play-by-play of my house-cleaning routine, beginning w/ the kitchen......
    I do agree that it's nice to get to know people,not just by their DOC, but also what's going on inside their heads a little bit.  It helps us all to know that underneath this addiction there lurks a worthwhile person.
     Hope you have a great holiday, Percsy-poo.  Remember--no eggnog spiked w/ oxy for YOU!!  WIll you be going to your dad's or stay at your house?  You still have time to shape up and fly right---maybe you'll at least get more than coal in your stocking.....TTYL;LOL--Peaz

[teeitup]

You right, what has helped me most is finding out the personal side of other addicts.

Keep up the good work!
Teeitup!

[Thomas02]

I missed your long, rambling post, but in my experience they're usually the result of finding some good speed. You didn't get hold of some, did you? And did you bring enough for the whole class?

Thomas

[peaz]

You're getting to know me a little TOO well, Thomas!  In college my extremely long journal entries were tell-tale sings of my having scored a buncha beans....Of course if I had any now, I would share, but doesn't speed "clash" w/ narcotics?? (One must always consider propriety in drug use.)  Peaz

[Thomas02]

nah, good speed is just fine between narcs, thank you. I don't recommend it as a therapy, but good pharamceutical speed or crystal will completly overpower most or all opiate WD symptoms (I never used narcs and speed together). But a good speed or x experience depends on having some pot, before, during, after and, what the hell, after that, too.

I figured you as pro-speed just because, with you on the radio, the odds seemed good that you'd need a little bump to maintain the energy level night after night. Do correct me if I'm wrong, just so long as you don't offer up anything politically correct. I followed politics avidly as a kid, but I'm sickened by what passes for politics today. I'd like to think that the United States will live a long life, but sometimes I fear we're living in the equivalent of A.D. Rome, when cynicism, greed and inhumanity formed the collective ideal. The Romans only lacked TV. Think about it. The Fall of the Roman Empire, hosted by Howard Stern. Live on Pay-Per-View. The entertainment value alone ...!

Thomas

[peaz]

Well I'm not entirely sure how this conversation evolved from our cornucopia of drug-use combinations; neither am I sure if I would recognize political correctness if it up and bit me on the butt.....But!!!!!! (ha, ha)
   Wow! I would be ever-so-charming on my radio show if only I COULD artificially enhance my on-air demeanor!  I am mired down w/ these pesky drug screens for another two years in order to keep my CPhT certification, and they are so sensitive as to even test for nail polish remover or traces of Pam cooking spray.....What's a girl to do?? So my audience is stuck w/  ho-hum LadyDi---my only hope is to entice them w/ playing good music.
     I couldn't help but think of the Trent Lott Lambaste when you spoke of political correctness.....Surely Howard is having a hey-day.  I was hoping for a tutelage under Don Imus, but I hear he's booked until 2004.  I'll no doubt have my own network syndication by then.  Wanna be a guest??
     Peaz

[Thomas02]

sure. that'll be just about when the drug tests will be over ...

Thomas

[Thomas02]

I can't imagine having all those drugs within my reach and not be able to touch them. So you're a pharm tech and you're on the radio? Any thematic connection between the two?

Thomas

[peaz]

The only connection between my radio career and the pharmacy is they are both on my resume.  I  have also been a substitute teacher in both secondary and elementary levels, have been a foreman in the Teamster's union, do free-lance pen and ink drawings, dressed mannequins and created department store displays, worked in a huge bookstore (one of my favorites) and been a janitor for a bank. I'm sure there are two or three positions that I can't even recall at the moment. Since the radio gig had been one of my past jobs, when I was exorcised from the pharmacy a year ago, I was approached by my old boss at the station and grabbed at the chance to at least be working again.  I really liked the challenge of the pharmacy, and learned SO much (and stole SO much!); I want to hang on to my certification so as to not burn any bridges.....One never knows.  For now, I am certain the temptation would be too great to be working there.  The station is a "safe" place. The pay is deplorable.  Some day, however, I will decide what it is I want to be when I grow up.
    My French fries are burning; I am also a wife and mother---gotta go!! Peaz  

[peaz]

P.S.  I forgot car rental agent and church organist, but the last one was more-or-less volunteer, so it really doesn't count.
       Aren't you job searching at the moment?  What avenues are you exploring?     Peaz

[Jack Frost]

Speed to come of narcs? Really Thomas? A most novel idea. Perhaps I read out of context. The piper would have to be paid twice no doubt, and a dreadful cost. Surely you jest.

J.

[Thomas02]

never said you could detox from opiates with speed. Just making the point that meth is so powerful it will make you forget you just broke your leg.

Thomas

[minime]

Hello I worked in radio too.  What city do you work in and what type of music do you have to play.  In this day and age the djs don't have a choice of which record to play. I have never heard of a radio station drug testing it's djs.  If that were the case everywhere I think there would be some very boring radio going on.

I took Restoril for awhile to help sleep.  It worked really well and didn't have a lot of the side effects you all were talking about.

[peaz]

Hi! I think you misunderstood my post--I work in radio now, but I was a pharm. tech and as a result of messing up in that capacity, I am now doing drug screens.  I work in a small market of two sister stations.  The one I'm at is Oldies radio--mostly 70's and 80's but some 90's, too. I  get to choose what I'm going to play each day; it is within the above foremat guidelines, though.  In fact, I go in 30 minutes early everyday to get set up; pick out CD's , get weather, edit the computer program, etc.  
   What's going on in your world?  Tell me more about yourself.  Peaz