Hi everyone.
Sarah made a suggestion that we tell you a short story about our personal OCD situation. For me, I believe it can be summed up in one word - CONTROL - self control. As my family grew older and I had to face many things out of my control (their illness, my illness, work inconsistencies, a gradual phobic continuum of the public place and people in groups), I tried to control those things that I really had no control of what so ever.
It has only been recently after retirement and 3 years of being housebound alone that I have figured out, these things are not going to change, I have no control over them and to try to control them is like butting your head against a brick wall. My symptomology has lessened greatly, I take my medication, and try to help daughters and grandchildren with what they need that I am capable of giving. I know there is not a magic pill that will make me feel great again, but I am able to live and enjoy most of what life has to offer.
I wish I could really be of help to all of you, especially those that are in great pain, but I don't really have any control over that, all I can do is let you know I care about you and know how it was with me and hope you can receive some feeling comfort knowing you are not alone in your pain.

Tom.