MaggieRose6117

I'm a journalist/writer who has survived benzodiazepine withdrawal after 20 years of being on the meds. It nearly killed me going cold turkey - I could barely walk, I could barely talk, I lost work, I couldn't go out or drive, I shook and trembled for three years, I was a wreck. Now the least little thing traumatises me - dogs that bark for too long, loud noises, any crisis in my life... but I cope. No alcohol, no drugs, no nothing to take the pain away. Just exercise and meditation.

I was attacked when out hiking with a friend - my friend was hit on the head with a rock by one guy while the other tried to strangle me - but my martial arts saved us.

I have a battered nervous system, but I'm managing. Compassion is my middle name.