Rachel,

I never got back to your amazing message- thank you!

I was at the PRC from August 15th- September 6th. And- WOW! You are right. One of the hardest things I have done, but so very worth it. I was also there without my family for the duration of the program, but found instant connections with the other participants. We may have had a variety of reasons why we were all there, but the common thread was overwhelmingly that we all experienced chronic pain. To feel instantly understood and validated was so powerful for me.

It was also way more emotional than I had anticipated it would be. I found myself working through some really big feelings and emotions as topics were discussed. They encouraged everyone to continue to seek therapy/ counseling on our return home and while this is something I know I have needed for quite sometime, I finally took the reins and found a therapist close to home that I feel comfortable continuing these conversations with. I loved Mayo's approach to chronic pain with CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and I did not think I was going to like the group sessions. I was pleasantly surprised because I feel like this is where the majority of my "aha" moments took place. Hearing others who have experienced day-to-day pain and the thoughts and feelings they have surrounding that and how their families/friends either help or hurt during this. It was so powerful...

Thank you so much again for your message and if I can ever be a contact for anyone with questions, please know I am more than happy to share my experience. I was blown away by the staff, therapists, and experience that I received.

Take good care and thankful to have this space!
Angie