I have a story...and my true gratitude to not only this great community but also everyone who has a hand in making this game work. I want all those who help create this game, how at least in my life, have made a BIG difference and make my life better. Many of these ESO employees would never know how they have improved my life so very much, I feel I need to let them know. And I assure you, my story is far from unique.
I started playing ESO on June 24th, 2018, I just passed 3000 hours (is that a lot?). I am in my mid 50's, I became disabled when I was 39 years old. I have a condition called Spinal Stenosis, basically, my spinal column is too thin for the nerves to pass through without being "pinched". I am NEVER not in pain, I can not sit, stand, walk etc. I play ESO laying flat on a futon. I take a lot of narcotics, I hate them, they make me very, very sick to my stomach. You see my choice has always been when it comes to pain killers, my payment for pain relief is unbearable, relentless nausea.
This is where ESO changed my life for the better. Since day one, I noticed I was not getting as sick as I usually do. I mean it was really noticeable and I was not sure what was going on. What I figured out was I was so enthralled in the game, I was so focused on what was going on and what I was doing it was suppressing the gut wrenching nausea. I don't know how or why, but my daily life was improved IMMENSELY. I can not explain with words how much this has helped make my life at least a bit better.
Secondly, I take my pain pills on an exact schedule, they are kinda dangerous so I am always very careful. While this does not happen often, it does happen enough to mention. While playing I sometimes MISS my scheduled pain meds. This is a BIG deal, my pain does not stop for anything, ever...but I get so wrapped up when I am playing and my mind is so distracted, I simply don't notice my meds have wore off. Again, this is a rare thing, but anytime I can take LESS meds, is a good thing.
The Community - I would of quit this game a very long time ago if it was not for the fantastic people who play this game. The YouTube Community has helped me through a bunch of times I was stumped. So many complete strangers have taken the time to answer my questions in zone chat and in return I have tried to "Pay It Forward" to help others. This is without a doubt one of the best communities I have been associated with in my 20 years of playing MMO's and that is saying something. You make me smile and sometimes laugh when I have very little reason to do either, for that you have my undying appreciation.
To the Community Managers, please forward this to everyone, from the person who makes copies, the developers, artists, story people, customers service, and everyone involved, I know you did not design this game to make my life better, but you did, and that is no small feat (and I know for a fact, I am not alone and not a unique case). You have given me a priceless gift, a life with a little less pain, a little less depression, and a bit more happiness...I just thought you should know. From myself and my wife...I Thank You!!!!