It is amazing how much stronger a person can feel after connecting with others who are enduring the same trials and struggles. This afternoon I was on a conference meeting with inspiring individuals offering their time and energy to U.S. Pain Foundation. As we shared stories how finding people who not only support us during the bad but also empower us to become our own inner-hero frees us from personal insecurities, I could not help but feel a sense of pride.

Even though I know each of us makes a difference on an individual basis, I do believe the more we unite as a group over a particular cause, the more powerful our voices become. It is our challenges that truly bond us. As a team, we help one another move forward. We lift each other up, create pain awareness and demand change so answers can be found.

To those who face daily adversity, I am in awe of your strength and resilience. You are true survivors in my eyes. My wish is during the moments when you feel the most isolated that you remember you are never alone. Not only are there others who understand your plight, but more importantly, there are others who want to be there for you … to help you navigate through the painful storm.  

I am thinking of you all tonight.

Believing in Miracles,

Nicole Hemmenway

            Author of “No, It Is NOT In My Head: The Journey of a Chronic Pain Survivor from Wheelchair to Marathon”