As a lead up to For Grace's 10th annual Women In Pain conference that will explore the pain-cancer connection, we're re-visiting stories of people involved with the event. Planning Committee member Kristina Breen had been battling Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for a decade when two bouts of pre-cancer (atypical ductal hyperplasia and monoclonal gammaopathy) were thwarted. Confronted with a third, more serious cancer threat, she's beginning to think about how her pain and cancer are "starting to collide." Kristina's now focusing on how to become more empowered to heal herself as better health is "just out there, ready to be found."

Join co-hosts Cynthia Toussaint and John Garrett for this month's "The Trauma-Illness Paradigm" which streams live on The Mighty's Facebook pages. On Tuesday, June 22 at 1pm PST, Cynthia and John will have a lively conversation about the power of expressive therapy to quell the adverse effects of trauma leading to chronic illness. Specifically, music will be featured as Cynthia just released her second CD, "Crazy", that is dedicated to "women in pain who know they're not." Whether it's dancing, art, acting or writing, it's healing to get troubles out through the creative process. Looking forward to your questions and comments...

For Grace director John Garrett joined Cynthia Toussaint  for part two of an interview with Heart Mojo podcast host Melinda Smith. During this segment, John spoke about his 38-year caregiving journey for someone with high-impact pain (and, more recently, breast cancer) and the tremendous challenges that brings.  Also, he shared tips and insights about how to sustain and grow during trying times as well as emphasizing not losing one's self during this most loving act.    

For Grace's 10th Annual Women In Pain Conference planning committee reconvened last week to start work on our virtual September 24th event which will focus on the intersection between cancer and chronic pain.  This eye-opening day will be divided into four parts - problem, solution, experience and moving on - and will include fun surprises to keep the mood upbeat and lively.  We're  excited to have a roster of world-class speakers to bring this overlooked connection to light.