In Episode 7 of Pain. Full. Truth., I open up about the other trial I face — not in a hospital, but in front of the benefits system. Living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) means constant pain, but it also means constantly proving that pain to strangers.

I talk about the endless paperwork, the tick-box questions that never capture reality, and the assessments that make you feel like you’re on trial for your own life. I share how this process chips away at your pride, affects your mental health, and ripples through your family.

This episode also looks ahead to what comes next — my two-week Pain Management course at Guy’s & St Thomas’, the build-up to the DRG stimulation trial, and the uncertainty of knowing my future depends on a 50% pain reduction target.

If you’ve ever battled the benefits system, doubted yourself while filling in forms, or felt invisible in your own pain — this one’s for you.

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