Well...I guess I would be considered to be in the "early stages," (even though it has been 10 years). I date all the time, even though it is difficult given the extent of my trauma. However, even though some may call me "ill" or "damaged," I am a person...a young woman who wants what many other women (and men) want: love. I, too, wish to have a husband and children in the near future, and I don't want the PTSD or anything else for that matter to take this dream away.

As for why someone would choose to date me...hmm...Well, I don't go into my life's story on the first date...or second for that matter. It's not that I am trying to trick a guy into thinking that I'm 100% normal--after all, everyone has issues--but I want him to see that I am a funny, honest, successful young woman...and then, when I feel it is time, I will slowly tell him about the difficult stuff. While I have had guys get freaked out and/or leave, the good ones tend to stick around :-)

nic