Hello All!

I just had to stop by and say Hello :)

Three years ago I was gripped with anxiety and panic so bad, that it took my life down a rocky road into not only agoraphobia, but also suffering from so many other symptoms that I wondered if I ever would get my life back. So I started research and came across this wonderful site and many of the good people that are still on here today.

Over the past few years, so much has happened that would have drug me back into the pits of despair, but I kept up with my meditation, yoga, eating better, cbt and just tying to lead an overall balanced lifestyle. I launched a new brand dealing with positivity, have written articles and am working on a novel, have had a couple of speaking engagements, plus I've become a Motivational Life Coach! I still take my benzo daily to maintain my focus, plus it has now been doubly prescribed to help me deal with pain and the osteoarthritis that I have in my right hip that has been degenerating.

Here within the next few months, I will be flying to India alone to have my hip resurfaced by one of the top surgeons in the world to do this type of procedure, as I have elected to have full range of motion at my young age, instead of going with the total hip replacement, as it has so many restrictions. I am also very excited to be able to visit India as well to get to experience and immerse myself in the culture :)

So, here is my update for those that know me and to all of you that are still suffering from anxiety and panic disorder, from a former agoraphobic that was barely able to drive to town, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel :) If I can do it, you can too and I wish upon you many blessings for your speedy recovery back to YOU again! Don't ever give up hope that your life can turn around for the better, because miracles happen everyday.

I can't thank everyone from our wonderful Admin Peter, and to all the Moderators/Members of HealingWell that helped me make this journey as comfortable as possible. Plus for all of the wonderful resources that were made available to me, such as MoodGYM, eCouch and the many different tips and techniques that can be found at the top of the forum in the Anxiety-Panic Resources tab :)

Love to all,
Sam/J Sam

Sam,

I read your inspirational quotes on FB daily and you have a great following of members.  Thank you for recognizing when I need a word of encouragement and thank you for validating my feelings.

I know you have been through some really tough situations and yet you managed to keep your control over your anxiety and made wise decisions as you moved forward.  I am so proud of you. 

As some members may not know, Sam was a moderator here in the A & P forum and his support and caring helped so many that whenever I see him come back to check in with us I recall his special way of taking care of others.  I still have the card you sent my sister when she was dying of Cancer and remember how you were there for me.  The smile on her face to receive a card from a young man who had never met her helped keep Beverly knowing that people all over care and love each other.

I also have kept the picture of your Grandma and hope someday I look just like her.  The twinkle in her eyes and the smile on her face made me love her on sight.

I wish you a safe and successful journey to India and you must know that my prayers go with you so Sam, sending you love and prayers and always here to support you.

Love and hugs,

Kitt