(((((Hugs))))), sorry to hear that you've been having a rough time with the pain again. I agree with Dale -- temporary pain one can smile through (usually), but long term pain will grind you down.
If the December hearing goes your way will that also open up medical care for you?
I hope so, either way looks like I'll have at least Obama care, who knows what that will be? Or maybe medicaid? I don't care as long as they find a doctor that can help my back, neck, feet, hands all of it, Actually, I think I know a good doctor already, just have to see how this health plan will work. Then, after, 2 years, I think, I will have Medicare if it still exists. Today, I actually felt a tiny bit of relief compared to yesterday. Not much, but enough not to want to slit my throat!