Our July Story of the Month tells how Celeste Hall developed CRPS after being thrown from a moving car, leaving her with a broken leg and gangrene. For the next 20 years doctors told her she was a "high strung, nervous woman" because of her complaints of endless, burning pain. Finally one doctor believed her, but it was too late. Celeste's wish is that in the future women in pain will be taken seriously - and "get help in time."

For Grace leaders will lead a two-part service about high-impact pain and caregiving at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Studio City, CA on June 23 & 30. Garrett and Toussaint will share their 37-year experience with pain and the unique challenges for the caregiver. Their presentation will include a showing of the Discovery Channel documentary, Pain Matters, intimate readings, poems and songs.  Please join us if you're in the Los Angeles area.

For Grace spokesperson Cynthia Toussaint will pick up her pen as a regular blog post contributor for The Mighty's online chronic illness community. Toussaint, who hosts a monthly Facebook Live stream with this advocacy organization, looks forward to writing about the pain experience in her raw and real style. Look for more posts like this one in the months to come.