BY ALEXIA ORTEGA CASTREJON (Patient)
It’s hard to describe the moment everything changed.
One day, I was walking through life like any other teenager. I was carefree, active, full of dreams. The next, I was on crutches, and pain became my constant companion. It wasn’t just physical. It was emotional, overwhelming and isolating. Chronic pain didn’t knock gently; it stormed in and took over, turning my world upside down.
I remember feeling like I was trapped in a body that no longer felt like mine. The pain was relentless, and the fear of not knowing what was happening or how to fix it was even worse. It felt like a shadow that followed me everywhere, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible.
My journey through chronic pain has been one of the most emotional experiences of my life—filled with tears, frustration and moments where I truly thought I’d never find my way back.
That was until I was referred to Dr. Pritha Dalal at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. That moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in my journey.
Dr. Dalal gave me the most important advice I’ve ever received: “You have to prioritize yourself to get better.” That was the turning point.
From there, I went through countless doctor visits, three MRIs, nerve conduction tests, and a five-week stay at Rady Children’s Inpatient Chronic Pain Program. It was intense, but it gave my life a complete 180. I’m forever grateful to Rady Children’s for the care and support they provided—and continue to provide.
Living with chronic pain has changed my life in ways I never expected. At 15, I never imagined that my “normal” would be redefined. But now, looking back, I’m grateful. Chronic pain opened my eyes to the beauty of life and the importance
…of cherishing every moment.
My family, my friends and the little things that make each day special have helped me face challenges I never thought I could overcome.
On the toughest days, when I feel like giving up, I turn to my family. Their love and support give me the strength to keep going. They remind me that I’m not alone—and that I can face anything. That motivation also comes from within. I’ve learned to believe in myself and to see that it’s not the world against me—it’s me against the world.
I chose to share my story because I believe in the power of connection. If even one person reads this and thinks, “That’s how I feel,” or “That happened to me too,” then sharing my experience was worth it. Telling my story isn’t just for others. It’s also a way for me to heal and grow.
Now, nearly a year and a half since my diagnosis, I can say with confidence that I don’t regret any part of my journey. Every step has shaped me into the strong, passionate and inspiring young woman I’ve always wanted to be. Chronic pain isn’t the villain, it’s just part of the story. And I get to decide what role it plays.
Thank you for allowing me to share my journey. I hope it brings hope to others who are walking a similar path.
With gratitude,
Alexia