The concept of managing pain has been a cornerstone of my work for many years, evolving into a focused effort seven years ago when I began delivering wellbeing and pain management sessions to the community members of OSCAR Birmingham. However, this commitment runs much deeper, it has been a guiding principle throughout my life.

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Over three decades ago, I facilitated art workshops for organisations like Birmingham Rathbone Society, Victoria School in Northfield, and Artlink. These experiences, combined with my role as a college lecturer, allowed me to work closely with children and adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI), Physical Disabilities (PD), and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Through these roles, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of creative and educational approaches in managing pain and enhancing wellbeing. This lifelong commitment continues to inspire and shape my work today.

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This concept has consistently guided my work as a community developer, empowering individuals to embrace the benefits of activity, movement, and connection with their environment. As a producer, I have also championed the wellbeing of artists, encouraging them to prioritise their mental and physical health, something often overlooked in the creative industry.For me, this is not a trend or a fleeting project. It is a deeply rooted passion and a way of life.

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As my invisible illness became more visible, I encountered subtle but hurtful micro-aggressions, jokes, dismissive comments, and biases from individuals who, given their roles and positions, should have known better. These experiences of being treated differently in a negative way were why I initially kept my health condition private, and why others don’t divulge their chronic pain and long term health conditions too.