Age: 47 years old

Rice hosting a table on Rare Diseases Day

Location: San Jose, CA

Pain warrior role: California ambassador since 2015

Pain conditions: Reflex sympathetic dystrophy/complex regional pain syndrome, fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue, temporal mandibular disease, myofascial pain syndrome, migraine disorder, depression, anxiety, chronic labyrinthitis, and corneal erosion

Favorite pain tip: “Find a support system. It can be family, friends, or a support group that either meets in-person, online, or via the phone. Living with chronic illnesses and pain is like riding a rollercoaster; so it is important to know who you can count on during the low times. Personally, I find it extremely rewarding when I can offer support to someone else during their moment of need. Secondly, allow yourself the time to grieve the losses that come with living with chronic illnesses and pain. It takes awhile to find new hopes and dreams and pastimes you feel  passionate about.”

Fun fact:  ”I have been to 48 states, camped in 46 states, and camped in four provinces in Canada.”

Rice at one of the several events she has hosted over the past few years. She is constantly taking an active role in U.S. Pain’s Ambassador Program. No matter what Rice is going through, she is always thinking about how she can help others. She is currently helping ambassadors prepare for Pain Awareness Month.