So sorry to hear you've been going through such a hard time, Mandy. I don't know much about cortisone, but I know pain can be debilitating and depressing. Post-concussive syndrome can also destabilize one's moods for a surprisingly extended length of time.

I guess the good news in the situation is that, as time passes and the pain relents, you can expect to feel stronger and more resilient. So whatever you can do to occupy or distract yourself while waiting for the calendar to work its healing magic, just do that.

I'm staying moderately busy, partly with attempting to get back into publishing more regularly. But I'm still here and still try to answer emails.