Keith's diary

Excerpts from a Challenging Pain Course Diary*

Why you are taking the Challenging Pain course?

'Six months ago, I went to the doctor’s as my pain was getting really bad. The doctor was concerned and suggested the Challenging Pain course run by Arthritis Care. I was a little sceptical, but had got to the stage where I was prepared to give anything a go'

What happened on your first course session?

'I didn’t know what to expect, but our course leader, Janet, started by telling us how she had gone from someone who couldn’t get out of bed, to being a course leader - which I found very inspiring'

'We were each asked to set a goal for the future, so I said that I would like to walk to the shop everyday, to buy a paper… The day flew by'

What progress have you made between session one and two?

'Over the last week I have been putting into practice what I learned. I surprised myself as I went to the garden centre for lunch with an old work mate - a great distraction from my pain.  I also told my son and daughter about my pain, so they could understand how bad it is. It was good to talk to them about it'

What happened in the second session?

'Today we looked at different ways to manage pain such as breathing, exercise, diet and medication. When pain is really bad, breathing in a certain way can really help'

'At the end of the course, we all felt optimistic about the future and I feel as if I have a fresh sense of purpose'

Please tell us about the day you achieved your goal:

'I achieved my goal of walking to the shop just four months after finishing the course. When I bought my paper I felt so happy' 

'I have gone from somebody who was almost imprisoned by arthritis, to someone who loves life. I’m still in pain - sometimes a lot of pain - but now have good coping strategies'

*Keith’s diary is based on real comments from course participants.