When i have a big event i wear something that is reasonably comfortable and flat shoes. I make sure i drink plenty of water and stay hydrated and make sure I have/or take my meds with me. If I start feeling overwhelmed i pop to the bathroom (or a quiet room) and take some deep breaths and have a moment in 'time out' lol. Sometimes noise can get overwhelming and increases thre pain so a quite space helps me regain my strength and composure. Try and enjoy yourself and try not to stress too much, worrying how you are gonna manage can hype the pain up. Oh and I always take someone with me or take my car so if my pain gets to a certain point i excuse myself and leave the event.

I understand how you feel Christine I have my sister in laws funeral to go to on Monday and I am worrying how I am going to manage it as I have not for months due to chronic back pain but I do not want to miss the funeral as the only relatives she has left is her son and his wife and myself.

I find when I have a long day to get through, diazepam really helps.

Lord help you