Chronic pain is a tough battle for many people, with around 21% of Americans facing it daily. Olivia Hall from Stillwater, Minnesota, knows this struggle all too well. Unlike the usual career aspirations we often hear—like wanting to be a doctor or an officer—Olivia knew she wanted to be a funeral director. This choice, inspired by her grandfather, has shaped her life.
Olivia has been living with chronic pain since a snowmobile accident at age 15. The accident revealed a birth defect in her shoulder, leading to ongoing pain that feels different from a typical injury. “It’s a constant aching and burning,” she shares. For a long time, she relied on painkillers and hospital visits to manage her discomfort.
Her story reflects a shared experience for many women, who often feel overlooked or misunderstood in their pain. “When I started my journey, I felt trapped by my pain,” she says. In one poignant moment, she recalls attending the funeral of a woman who had suffered from chronic pain. The woman had expressed despair about finding a doctor who would truly listen to her.
Hope came for Olivia through Dr. Cody Tidwell at M Health Fairview. Chronic pain is notoriously misunderstood and can be frustrating for both patients and physicians. Dr. Tidwell emphasizes, “Unless you’ve experienced it, you can’t really grasp its impact.”
When Olivia visited Dr. Tidwell, he took the time to truly listen—something she had rarely experienced before. “He literally pulled up a chair and listened,” she recalls. This supportive approach made a world of difference for her. Dr. Tidwell understands the sensitivity of treating chronic pain. “Just because we can’t measure it doesn’t mean it isn’t real,” he says.
Together, they came up with a care plan that successfully reduced her reliance on opioids, allowing Olivia to regain her life. “Six months ago, I felt stuck. Now, I’m out doing things,” she says with newfound energy.
Olivia’s journey highlights the importance of compassionate care. “You are not invisible,” she encourages others. “There are care teams ready to support you.”
As we reflect on these stories, it’s clear that understanding and empathy can change lives. Chronic pain is a lived reality for many, but with the right support, hope can be found.
For more insights into chronic pain management, you can visit the Johns Hopkins Pain Research Center for resources and research updates.
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University of Minnesota, Health Care
