Friendship made on 'lifeline' chronic pain course

Nicola Kilcoyne and Vanessa Davidson met through a pain management programme run by the NHS

Two women who became friends after meeting on a pain management course say the service has made them feel less alone.

Nicola Kilcoyne and Vanessa Davidson, from Weston-super-Mare in Somerset, shared their experiences during a course delivered by University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Trust.

"Chronic pain is often invisible and isolating, but this support group has truly been a lifeline," said Ms Davidson.

According to a recent NHS report, chronic pain - defined as lasting more than 12 weeks - is estimated to affect one in 10 people across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG).

The course aims to equip people with skills to live better with persistent pain.

Ms Kilcoyne was diagnosed with early onset arthritis and spinal degeneration in 2019, which has made caring for her adult son with special needs more difficult.

The 57-year-old said the course, which ran between June and July, helped her find new ways to manage her symptoms and avoid flare-ups.

"You realise there are more people struggling day-to-day like you are," she said.

"I've lost a lot of confidence being a carer, spending a lot of time at home, but the course has given me my confidence back," Ms Kilcoyne added.

Nicola Kilcoyne, who is a full-time carer for her son Jack, has suffered chronic pain since 2019

Ms Davidson said she had been living with her "soul-destroying" chronic pain for a decade.

In 2015, doctors diagnosed her with a phaeochromocytoma, a rare tumour of the adrenal glands located above her kidneys.

She had an operation to remove the tumour but still has to cope with ongoing pain.

"The pain is constant and moves throughout my body, from my arms to my pelvis and down my legs. It severely limits my lifestyle," she said.

The pain management course took place at Weston General Hospital

Since meeting on the programme, the pair catch up often and are planning to meet with other participants from the same group soon.

"Chronic pain is often invisible and isolating, but this support group has truly been a lifeline," said Ms Davidson.

"I gained so much, from wellbeing strategies to new friendships."

The integrated care board (ICB), responsible for delivering care in Weston, Worle and nearby villages, said more than 10,000 people are living with chronic pain.

It said the majority faced challenges like anxiety, depression and a reliance on strong painkillers.

Judith Hernandez del Pino, Weston General Hospital's director, said: "People living with chronic pain face daily challenges, and it's essential that support is accessible, so no one is left behind."

"We are committed to building on this important work to provide lasting support for those who need it most," she added.

Another pain management course will be held in Weston-super-Mare next year.