In this talk, Nicole Bailey shares her personal journey with chronic pain, detailing the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges she has faced, including misdiagnoses and the grief of losing her former identity. She highlights the importance of recognizing chronic pain as a complex, often invisible condition, and the need for empathy and understanding from healthcare providers. The talk also explores how resilience, support, and compassion can empower those living with chronic pain to rebuild their lives and find strength in their journey. Nicole Bailey is a chronic pain advocate and a second year medical student at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She has a research background focused on pain, including a Masters in Experimental Medicine from UBC. Nicole serves as Vice Chair of Pain BC’s Board of Directors, the world’s largest pain specific charity, and has worked directly with people living with chronic pain as a Pain Health Coach and Peer Support Group Facilitator. Living with chronic pain from a traumatic spine injury and multiple spinal surgeries, she is passionate about transforming pain care through advocacy, education, and lived experience. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx