City & State: Charlotte, NC

Age: 38 years old

Pain warrior role: U.S. Pain advocate and support group leader since 2017

What type of health conditions you live with: Complex regional pain syndrome, neuropathy of intercostal nerves, and arthritis

What is your favorite tip for others with chronic pain: What has helped me get through my chronic pain is being able to help others who are experiencing chronic pain. Once I worked through my own struggles with dealing with my health condition, I quit my job and opened up my own private practice in mental health so I could focus on helping others who are having their own struggles with chronic pain. Turning my frustration and anger into something positive really helps ground me in finding a purpose for my pain. I hope to one day be a leader and a change agent for all of those impacted by chronic pain. My favorite tip to others is to channel frustrations and sadness to something that helps you find meaning and purpose. Mine was advocacy for chronic pain care but it can be anything you enjoy and find meaning in!

Something interesting about me: I have 3 kids ages 8, 6, and 3, 2 dogs, a rabbit, and a 75-gallon saltwater tank! My house is ALWAYS BUSY!

Lucy Dunning, LPC, is an engaged advocate who has worked to support and educate the chronic pain community for the past three years. Working in mental health, Lucy has used her practice to provide personalized support and care for other individuals with chronic pain, including starting a chronic pain support group for the states of North and South Carolina through U.S. Pain’s Pain Connection. Recently, Lucy and her children held a fundraiser in support of U.S. Pain as well. Lucy has turned the anger and frustration she experiences as a result of her pain into being an advocate for proper pain care and is an inspiring leader in the chronic pain community.