Chronic Pain does not define us

I wrote this album while invalid in bed after being diagnosed in 2006 with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a severely painful neurological pain disorder. My life had completely changed after this diagnosis. I was no longer able to stand or walk let alone sing and dance on stage like I had, so, I lost my career, my purpose and myself.

Chronic Pain is not easy, it's hard to "see" this invisible assailant. It not only affects you physically, but emotionally and spiritually. It's hard for those that love us because they feel helpless as there's nothing they can do to help, except believe us, pray for us, stay positive, treat us normal, listen to us. I battled depression for a long time, too. Please know, that you are not alone.

There is HOPE and you can still live a fulfilling life. I'm a direct example of that. Even though CRPS changed my life in a painful way and I will always battle with the pain, with the help of incredible doctors, therapists, family, friends, God and myself, I've managed to do some incredible things since my diagnosis. I wrote this album which won an award, toured and shared my story to help kids all over Southern California, went back to college and got a degree in Game Art and Design and was a Associate Game Designer for Disney Interactive, was a Game Reviewer for several magazines, got married and now have the best job in the world as an Audiobook Narrator. 

Don't allow anyone or anything limit you. Fight. Try. Believe in yourself! You CAN live your dreams regardless of the challenges you may be facing.

These songs were so cathartic to my emotional and spiritual healing and allowed me to realize that no matter how BROKEN I was, I am still BEAUTIFUL. I hope that these songs might be a salve upon your hearts and souls as they were mine. Please feel free to stream these songs free here. --With love, Andrea

Musical Credits: Maia Rodriguez, Rick Smith, Chris Mendez, Jeff Linder, Steve Erdeman, Diane Kelly, Matthew Merchant, Kyle Rice
Recorded at: Blacksmith Productions Recording Studio, Orlando Florida (Richard Smith) and Duncan Sound Productions, Cypress, California (Hugh Duncan)
Special Thanks: 3 Points of Light, Kenny & Virginia Vaughn, David Ybarra, Susanna Velasquez, Ted Emmes, Jim & Karen Bogle, Tillie Fascio

For Lyrics

My message to you is NEVER GIVE UP. Fight for yourself and your life. It is hard and painful but you CAN get through this, moment by moment.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE. YOU ARE WORTH IT. YOU ARE AMAZING.
If you need someone to talk to, please reach out to the Chronic Pain Hotline - https://www.risingabovethepain.com