My Nonprofit Reviews

U.S. Pain Foundation is a national non-profit dedicated to serving the 100 million Americans living with pain and chronic medical conditions. Created by people with pain for people with pain, the organization exists to help individuals find resources and inspiration. While advocating for patient rights and access to proper care, it is the goal of U.S. Pain to make sure those living with pain become proactive and feel validated.

I serve as the director for one of U.S. Pain Foundation’s programs, the INvisible Project. This national campaign uses photography and story to illustrate the struggles of those living with pain and chronic medical conditions.

The INvisible Project makes the challenges that are oftentimes hidden, ignored or misunderstood become tangible and real ... while additionally highlighting the personal strength, character and courage of the entire pain community. It shows the depths of physical and emotional angst as it magnifies perseverance, hope and resilience.

Since its inception in the fall of 2010, the project has been viewed hundreds of times in over twenty states at various medical conferences, state capitals and U.S. Pain-sponsored events. In January 2012, we even had the opportunity to address the California State Assembly.

This campaign is shifting perceptions regarding pain disorders. It is now being used as an educational tool for legislatures to change laws, for doctors to better treat patients, for patients to connect with others and gain validation. In essence, the INvisible Project has become the positive dialogue which society needed to understand pain.

I feel privileged to share stories of adversity, suffering, perseverance and hope with the world. Christopher Reeve once said, “A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Well, I believe the INvisible Project highlights the heroes among us – it is showing the world what it truly means to live day-in and day-out with unrelenting pain. Every participant has faced obstacles, and yet, refuses to let pain define their lives. That is undeniably powerful and commendable.

Furthermore, I applaud U.S. Pain Foundation for making sure the patient voice, our voice, is heard and recognized.

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