What’s one thing you wish people understood about living with chronic pain?

That it's NOT my fault! I did NOTHING to "cause" my condition AND there's NO way to prevent its rapid progression.

That I wish that I could make plans ahead of time, and that I wouldn't have to cancel. That I was NOT like this!

As for awareness, I am a very vocal advocate! I advocate for the responsible use of opioids medications. I advocate for treatments that can actually help.

I wish people wouldn't pass judgment what person in their righ y mind would want to endure pain every second of the day , for them to understand u can't work a regular job that it's all u can do somedays to walk that they would quit making u feel like scum because u can't work it adds on to the overwhelming depression I already have that I worked as a nurse for 18 years loved helping others and I didn't judge people what I would give to feel normal again, to continue my desire to help others and now I cant I don't fake it ive had numerous procedures And surgeries and doctors don't just operate on u for fun my conditions are real I have to take pain medication that's takes edge off of pain I hate how u are treated if u take pain medication they treat u like a drug addict what's worse is when it's your own family.i know that was alot but im brutally honest about it pain makes my depression worse because I can't do what I want to do the fact when I eventually have grandchildren I can't run after them that dealing with pain everyday makes life suck so I do what I can and that's all I can do

I have HIV related chronic peripheral neuropathy. The cause of it is uncertain, whether it is solely because of having this virus, the HIV medication, or both. Dealing with peripheral neuropathy has proven to be a daily debilitating challenge, but one I have accepted.The physical effects of chronic peripheral neuropathy on my feet varies in severity on a daily basis. There are days when the pain is mild; and I am able to go about my day with relative ease. There are days when I struggle immensely. It is very painful and very difficult to walk or to stand. I have to use a cane to do and get basic things done around the house.Living with HIV related chronic peripheral neuropathy is mentally and emotionally challenging.  It is a reminder of the fear and anxiety I feel at the possibility of losing my self-sufficiency, quality of life, and independence; and the reality of further disability. Yet, I am blessed. With today's treatment and perfect adherence, I will not develop AIDS. Unlike in the past, I have the opportunity to live my life to the fullest; the best I can.