Visiting a Pain Support Group

To help spread the word about September’s Pain Awareness Month, I’m speaking to as many community and pain support groups that I can find. Today, I visited a Fibro/Pain Support group in Cary, NC.

Before I presented my information, we went around the room introducing ourselves and our issues. During that time, we talked about journaling, different treatments, caregiver support and so many other topics that I include in my talk. Made giving my talk even easier.

Visiting these groups reminds me that pain comes in very different forms and each individual’s pain is important to be recognized and treated seriously. But, what stands out in my mind is that each person feels many of the same losses (identity, friends, hobbies, relationships, etc.) So, people with pain, hear me: YOU ARE NOT ALONE! YOU ARE NORMAL!

Also, people with pain – be nice to your caregivers! Don’t take advantage of them. Don’t abuse their help. And caregivers: Set boundaries. Take care of yourself first. You are no good to anyone if you are not good to yourself first.

To that special person with pain who is also a caregiver I met today: WOW! You are so amazing. So special. Please be kind to yourself and know that prayers are being circulated for you!

Today, I received two more calls for presentations and another library for a display during September. Woo Hoo!