“I worked in construction and hurt my back carrying heavy bags. At first I kept working through the pain, but it kept getting worse. I could no longer bend down or climb stairs. I would come home in so much pain that I couldn’t sleep. I went to the doctor and they gave me medication, but it didn’t help much. My doctor told me I shouldn’t keep working like that. After missing several days, my boss told me I couldn’t continue, and I had to leave the job.”

“I have diabetes and high blood pressure. Sometimes I feel very weak, my body trembles, and I have to sit down. I also have severe back pain every day, especially when I get up or walk for a while. I was also diagnosed with depression because I’ve felt sad all the time since I stopped working. I don’t feel like going out or seeing anyone. All of this affects me a great deal.”

“I can no longer clean my house the way I used to. Sweeping or mopping wears me out, and I have to sit down often. It’s very hard for me to carry grocery bags, so I no longer go to the store alone. My daughter helps me. It’s also hard to shower because I can’t stand for long and I get dizzy with hot water. I used to enjoy walking in the park, but now I walk one block and my whole body hurts.”

“Yes, I go to the doctor every month. They are treating me for diabetes and back pain. I take medication every day: one for my blood sugar, one for the pain, and one to help me sleep because I have insomnia. I also went to physical therapy, but I couldn’t handle it for long because it hurt too much. I have all my prescriptions saved and my wife helps me stay on track with my treatment.”

“Yes, I tried going back to work cleaning offices part-time, but I couldn’t do it. My back and legs hurt too much. I only lasted two weeks. I kept getting dizzy and couldn’t finish my shift. I spoke with my employer and explained the situation, and he understood. Since then I haven’t been able to work.”