Hey Andy,
Well, like some others here I would like to selfishly suggest you become a rheumy or pain management Dr - it would be soooo nice to have a Dr who actually truly understands what you're dealing with instead of just the clinical definition!!
However, I also agree that while it is wise to consider your future options, don't let the AS take over your life. I have seen considerable deterioration in myself in the last few years and it scares the crap out of me - especially when I only worked out what I wanted to be about 5 years ago! LOL!! I'm just managing the symptoms the best I can and working as hard as I can now to give me more flexible options in the future (such as being self employed). My rheumy also has a practice with a couple of others and I often get calls asking if I can come earlier than my appointment as he wants to go home early! haha! Nice work if you can get it
Do you have a pain counsellor you could maybe talk to if you're feeling lost? I have found mine invaluable for when the head gets a bit ahead of itself!!
