I have back issues for over 15 years resulting in 2 major operations.  In 2010 it was much easier to be prescribed the correct medications to manage my pain before and after my 2 surgeries.  Now the same medications are highly regulated and impossible to be prescribed from doctors. I was overweight, depressed, physically impaired, could not drive long distances; practically home bound.  My life was unfulfilling and every activity was difficult. Sleep was continually interrupted and the level of stress due to chronic pain took its toll on me mentally, emotionally and threatened my employment.  Close relationships were also affected. Pain ruled my life.  I found kratom.  I am able to live life very close to the way I did before my pain started over 20 years ago. I have been able to exercise again.  I am losing weight.  I am more successful at my work.  I sleep better, feel better and I have also been able to avoid all the side effects that come from long term NSAID use or the danger of addiction with some of the needed medications. I used to drink too much alcohol in attempts to relieve my constant pain... Kratom actually enabled me to quit drinking completely.  I've been told kratom can be used to kick addiction; it definitely did with my drinking.  Please don't take away the only substance that works so completely for me; I never want to go back to that miserable existence PLEASE!!!