Δαφνη Ευτυχια Αρθουρος

"Trying to accomplish the simplest of tasks with chronic pain is challenging. Trying to keep up with activities of daily living is exhausting. Trying to lead a normal life with chronic pain as a constant companion is impossible." -- from "17 Things People With Chronic Pain Want You to Learn During Pain Awareness Month" (collected by Erin Migdol), The Mighty, 2016-09-01

"Twenty-five years have taught me that it has an impact on those that love you as well, but it's not your fault (although you will feel it is). Mostly that impact comes from not being able to help or lessen your burden, from watching you [in pain]. Best way to deal with it is, in my experience, to talk about it, openly, honestly, both [people with chronic pain] and loved ones. Inquire, ask, share. It helps with the loneliness you will undoubtedly feel and the helplessness your loved ones will experience." -- ibid.

"Just because you see a smiling face doesn't always mean we are fine. We've mastered the art of 'faking fine' so you won't hurt seeing our pain." -- ibid.