My Journey with Chronic Pain

Pain has been a part of my life since the day I was born. While I don’t have memories of those early years, my body does. Growing up, I absorbed messages like no pain, no gain and put your big girl pants on—words that taught me to push through, to disconnect from what my body was trying to tell me. Injury after injury, pain after pain, until I couldn’t ignore it anymore.

It was stealing from me—my relationships, my joy, my movement, my experiences. I tried everything: endless medical appointments, test after test, medication after medication, only to be met with little relief and even less understanding. I didn’t know what else to do.

So, instead of running from it, I turned toward it. I stopped seeing my pain as the enemy and instead, began listening to it. What if my pain wasn’t punishing me, but trying to guide me back to myself? I learned to move in ways that were kind and gentle, to explore where I could push and when I needed to rest. I found a team of practitioners who saw me and supported me—week after week, without judgment.

When I was diagnosed with Central Sensitization Syndrome, everything clicked. My body wasn’t broken; my system was just sensitive to pain and threat. And that was okay. I started EMDR therapy, learning to bring safety back into my body, to let go of the story that I would be in pain forever.

Pain-free days are a gift, but so are the painful ones. They remind me to rest, to savour comfort foods, to curl up with my dog and a good book. I love those days just as much as I love the days I push myself in the gym or on a hike.

Managing chronic pain is often an invisible, deeply personal journey. But you don’t have to do it alone. Find the people who bring you safety, curiosity, and kindness. Shift your relationship with your body, and over time, your pain.

EMDR can help desensitize and rewire your brain’s response to pain signals. If you’re ready to try, I’m here. I promise to hold your pain the way you deserve. Call me ❤️