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I have been a volunteer for the BackCare Helpline since it started just over a year ago. I am 29
and have a long-term chronic back condition, which has prevented me from working for over five years
due to not being able to sit or stand for long periods of time. This makes it a bit difficult to
lead a normal life, so I was really keen to get involved in the Helpline service.
I successfully completed a counselling course a year ago, which complemented the listening skills
that I developed on the BackCare Helpline training course.
The vast majority of callers are seeking information on back-related issues. Occasionally individuals
will be searching for information on disability, others are simply looking for someone to talk to,
who can understand their condition.
My Helpline shift starts quite early and lasts from one to three hours a day. Although I am not
generally a morning person, I don't seem to have too much trouble waking up on the mornings when I am
due to offer support to callers. .
I had four calls during my shift today, all from people suffering from undiagnosed back pain that
their GPs were unable to help with. From the many calls that I've received over the last year, this
seems to be one of the most common; GPs not being able to offer the advice, information or treatment
that a patient may need to reduce their pain.
I had similar problem with my previous doctor, but my current GP is more understanding of my
condition and takes the time to listen to me. Two years ago I was referred to a Pain Management
course, which I would thoroughly recommend to anyone who has long-term pain and is finding it hard
to cope.
Another problem that many back sufferers have to face is lack of support from the government and
the general public when it comes to the amount of understanding, support and services available to
people who are less able.
I have found that services and help are available for people in wheelchairs, but that the needs of
other disabilities are often ignored and misunderstood. Many forms of transport, restaurants,
theatres and other leisure venues have facilities for wheelchair users, but do not cater for
back pain sufferers. I often receive strange looks when I ask what facilities are available
for people who can’t sit.
Fortunately, the BackCare Helpline is proving to be an invaluable source of information and support
for sufferers of back pain, one of the most common, yet hugely overlooked, health problems.
After my Helpline shift ends I have a few gallons of tea, then invite a friend around. If it's a nice
day I go for a walk by my local canal, after which I'm usually just about ready for another Su Doku puzzle.
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