I don't have any advice, don't know what questions you should ask but I did look at that long list of your accomplishments and asked myself why you are unhappy? It is hard to see what you need that you haven't already got (apart from that the stroke never happened).

Maybe you need to take up laughter therapy, become a clown doctor, do something that will give you a real boost. Volunteering for a kids charity might do it, or helping out stroke survivors in a nursing home or hospital. I think you did that for a while. Sometimes giving others hope gives you help too.

Ray always boosted himself by saying: "there are plenty worse off than me" and then being thankful for what he had got back. Unfortunately now for him that period is over and he will not get any recovery from this last stroke.

You are a lovely girl Katrina and I am sad that your medication is taking the colors from your life and you are unhappy.

(((hugs))) from Sue.

Katrina,

I think you should have a serious heart to heart with your neuro or even a neuro-psychologist. It is true that many anti-depressants list depression as a side effect but not all anti-depressants will effect every person that way--even if another antidepressant did.

Jamie

Congratulations Katrina! :cheer: Your accomplishments are a lot to be proud of.

I hope you get the advice you need from your nuero. I know doctors can be frustrating to us sometimes.

Julie

Katrina:

:congrats: on your 10th anniversary. I feel you have not reached serene state of acceptance.let me remind you reaching acceptance does not mean giving up the hope, but accepting that yes stroke happened & left you with challenges in your life, but as you can see even with those challenges you have done pretty well for your life. give pat to yourself in the back & move on. I feel once you realize every one has some crosses to bear, & this is yours, but having faith that God is providing you help to be able to carry this cross. I believe we survived for a reason & not as a punishment. I agree with sue start volunteering so that you will see there are so many far worse off than you.

Asha

Katrina: Asha has said it so well. The doctors will take you off the medications or wean you when they feel it is safe and therapeutic for you. Be sure your medication list is complete and the reasons why you are taking each and every one of them.

Try considering the glass half full as opposed to half empty. You must focus on the whole you and not one specific complaint: spasticity, hand not coming back soon enough, job hunt, too many medications. You know this, you have been dealing with it for 10 years. Acceptance is the key. Debbie

I always hope and pray the best outcomes in whatever you decide to do. Happy 10 years of recovery to you! Wish I could do half of what you can do now. Maybe after 10 years I will be walking without a cane, I sure don't know about running! :big_grin:

Fred!

HI HAPPY 10 YEARS TO YOU ALSO! :Clap-Hands: MY BEST WISHES FOR YOU PATTY