Members of the pain warrior community came together June 2 for U.S. Pain’s third annual “Real Hope, Real Heroes” gala in Scottsdale, AZ. This year’s event specifically honored participants in the migraine and rheumatoid arthritis/rheumatoid disease editions of the INvisible Project.

Guests were surprised with a special appearance from Karen Duffy, an actress, TV personality and model best known for her work as an MTV video jockey in the 1990s and from roles in hit movies like “Blank Check,” “Reality Bites,” and “Dumb and Dumber.” Duffy lives with chronic pain as the result of sarcoidosis, a rare disease that impacts the brain and central nervous system. She has become an advocate for the chronic pain community and is the author of two books, including “Backbone: Living with Chronic Pain without Turning into One.”

During her speech, Duffy acknowledge the importance of spending time with other people with pain and interacting with people who “get it.”

The evening also featured dinner, dancing, and a silent auction, as well as the presentation of a video featuring several of the INvisible Project participants.

“Each year, this event is a chance to recognize chronic pain warriors for their bravery and strength and connect as a community,” says Nicole Hemmenway, interim CEO of U.S. Pain and director of the INvisible Project. “We are so grateful to all of our supporters who came to participate in this special night.”

All proceeds from “Real Hope, Real Heroes” go toward U.S. Pain’s programs and services.