My name is Kayla, I am 25 years old and have lived with arthritis for over half my life. I attended Pain Education Day at the International Symposium for Pediatric Pain last month, and it was not what I initially expected. I didn’t realize I would have the opportunity to meet so many other young people like me, I didn’t expect to make friends with people who ‘get it’. Hearing about the current advances in research and meeting the various professionals was great, but the part that really stood out to me was the sense of community and mutual understanding at our table.

As someone who grew up with chronic pain in a small town, I didn’t know anyone else who experienced chronic illness until I moved away to University. There, I met several people with varying disabilities and chronic illnesses who are now great allies and friends. Still, meeting anyone who can understand what I’ve been through is such a novel and exciting experience, it’s really a great feeling.

Sitting around a table and hearing the stories of the other patient advocates at the Pain Education Day made me feel empowered, understood, and like I could be myself. There was no judgement if one of us needed to go lay down, if we were taking our medications, or wearing various braces. No one asked uncomfortable questions, we didn’t have to hide what we were going through. We could just exist as ourselves for a day without fear of judgement. Organizations who prioritize this sense of community, empathy, and mutual understanding are so important, just like Cassie and Friends. Cassie and Friends provides children, youth, and parents with education, empathy, and a space to be themselves. There’s nothing better than feeling like you belong.