I guess this is the next phase of my dilemma.

About a year ago I came to this site to get feedback on proposed spinal surgery for a workers comp problem. (too many years at a desk/computer-pinched nerve, bad disc, carpal,etc) I decided not to go through a dangerous procedure in hopes that it *might* make me able to go back to the thing that screwed me up in the first place.

The lawyer is doing the W/C settlement thing and we all know that will drag on for a bit.

What I'm left with is trying to find a new career without computer use or heavy lifting, a massive task, and months & months of dead ends. Have been trying to work with the Dept of Rehab for career counseling but my caseworker has over 140 cases and very barely returns my messages. I'm turning over every stone to find a path but am getting deeply discouraged, and anxiety is setting in because I've got 6 more years of child support. (disability will not cover rent,child spt, etc) I'm burning retirement money just to survive right now, and it's burning fast.

Stressed & don't have a lot of options.

Some details about me:
-30 years plus wholesale experience(bldg materials), computer required, speech software does not work in this arena of business.
-Former musician, aspiring songwriter (mostly a hobby in recent years)
-Avid salt water sports angler. (oddly enough I can without pain)
-mid 50s, degenerated c6 disc, pinched nerve, aggrevated by prolonged sitting, typing, mousing.

Have been looking into everything from seafood inspector to broadcasting to tour guide, in trying to bridge my knowledge to a new career but it's been a tough go, i have a lot at stake, and my back is against the wall.

This is all I can type today, hand going numb, will check back to see if anyone has any suggestions or ideas. Thanks for reading!