New language that expands on the pain experience has been added to For Grace's annual resolution that will trumpet September as Pain Awareness Month in California. Marking the 20th year For Grace has sponsored this effort, author Senator Maria Elena Durazo has once again offered her leadership in drafting and submitting this awareness-raising proclamation to the Senate floor. Additionally, the resolution signals September 1st as Women In Pain Awareness Day which will shine a legislative spotlight on gender bias toward women in their pain care.

Check out For Grace's June Story of the Month as we continue to explore the connection between trauma and chronic pain.  Author of the hot-selling The Migraine Relief Plan Cookbook, Stephanie Weaver began experiencing strange sensations early in life, making her feel  "zoned out" and disconnected from her body. Years later she developed debilitating back pain and sciatica triggered by a roller-skating injury that was never properly addressed. Stephanie now understands that her dissociation was a coping mechanism that helped her survive years of childhood sexual abuse - and wonders if her life-long pain could have been avoided if she'd been "embodied sooner."

Join For Grace leaders Cynthia Toussaint and John Garrett as they host their next episode of "Trauma Talk" that streams live on The Mighty's Facebook pages. On Tuesday, May 23rd at 1pm PT, Cynthia and John will interview Dr. Mary Driscoll, clinical research psychologist at VA Connecticut Healthcare System and assistant professor in the Yale School of Medicine, who will highlight the connection between women in pain and trauma, the importance of trauma-informed care, the gaps in pain care for women, and more. Join us with your questions and comments...

Join For Grace leaders Cynthia Toussaint and John Garrett as they guest on a rescheduled one-hour RSDSA Facebook Live episode on May 11th at 4pm PT, 7pm ET. Hosted by RSDSA Director Jim Broatch, this wide-ranging talk will cover Cynthia and John's 40+ year journey with CRPS and caregiving, their on-going battle with cancer, tried-and-true self-care techniques and so much more.  Please join this  sure-to-be-lively conversation with your great questions and comments...