My name is Faith Diamond and I am 24 years old. Some of you know me as the Vet Tech who has treated your animals, others as a classmate, a coworker, family or friend. I never thought I would be writing up something like this or be struggling with a debilitating medical condition at only 24, however, as of May 1st this year, my life has been forever changed. I developed intense pain and swelling of my left hand. My mom rushed me to the ER in hopes of getting some answers to what was happening.

This was only the beginning to my extensive medical journey. Over the course of the last 4 months, I have been examined by 15 doctors, had 14 procedures done, countless bloodwork panels and tried over 10 different medications. No one could figure out what was going on or why I was not improving or responding to their therapies despite all their efforts. The last two doctors to examine me, had a diagnosis within 5 minutes. 

 

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). It all finally made sense, the symptoms, the test results, and the constant pain. Although, in order for you to truly understand the gravity of this diagnosis, allow me to explain what Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is and what it entails.

CRPS is a rare neuropathic pain disorder that occurs most often after a surgery or injury, however, in rare cases it occurs spontaneously without any apparent cause or reason. CRPS is described as a severely debilitating condition with pain that is much greater than normal, even without visible injury. CRPS begins in a person’s limb, then as the disease progresses, it can spread to the entire body, including internal organs. It is most often noted for its symptom of pain, however, its symptoms also include but are not limited to, swelling, skin discoloration, muscle spasms, muscle tightening, hypersensitivity, burning, aching, throbbing, pins and needles, changes in sweating pattern, changes in nail/hair growth, and even light touch can be enough to produce pain. CRPS is nicknamed “The Suicide Disease” due to its unbearable nature and pain. CRPS is known as the most painful condition to date on the McGill Pain Scale. Meaning CRPS is more painful than unmedicated childbirth, amputation, and kidney stones. CRPS has no cure. Although, if it is diagnosed quickly enough and treated effectively within the first few months, it can be put into remission. 

Due to the rarity of my condition, I’ve failed to find a doctor with an effective treatment for my CRPS. Some of the treatments I have received left me worse off than I was prior to said treatments. All the while my initial symptoms are worsening. I have been developing new symptoms, and my condition is spreading. CRPS is not only affecting my left hand but has since radiated up my left arm all the way to my shoulder. I have also begun developing symptoms in my right hand/arm similar to those in the left.

At this point, I am 4 months past the start of my symptoms and 2 and 1/2 months into my diagnosis. During this time, I have been left unable to perform my job as a hands on veterinary technician, unable to do many daily tasks, and when my symptoms are at their peak, I am unable to even dress myself.

Through extensive online research I found a CRPS specialist located in North Carolina. They have very aggressive individualized treatment therapies for CRPS that could put me into remission. Meaning I would be pain/symptom free. Sadly, health insurance does not cover these treatments. 

This treatment program could change my life forever. I’ve been in pain nonstop every day since May 1st. Sometimes the pain is bearable, however, other times it’s debilitating. I can’t even begin to imagine being pain free but I’m hopeful that one day I will see that reality. I’ve received a lot of kind words from those who I have made aware of my condition, and many have asked to help. Currently, I need your help now more than ever. With this page, I am hopeful and praying to be able to raise enough money to be able to go through this life changing treatment program. If you can find it in your heart to support me in any way you can, whether it be a donation, a share or even a kind message to inspire me to keep fighting, I am forever grateful. Thank you so unbelievably much in advance for supporting me in my fight with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I fight daily but I never fight alone. ️