Real Experiences, Real Impact
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“Living with chronic illness since the age of twelve has presented its challenges, but it has also served as a motivator. My journey from patient to clinician has given me a unique perspective that I hope to share with others to assist them in their own journeys.”
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“Being a patient partner creates a sense of empowerment, allowing me to be at the table and make a tangible difference not only for myself but for future patients who share my experiences.”
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“I love brainstorming with the researchers. I feel like everyone is a scientist in a way since we all ask questions and try to make things around us work better. When I get to help the researchers through this advisor committee, I get to use my voice both as a patient and as a scientist.”
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“I think that our experience of working as a team with the researchers has been not only meaningful to us, but valuable and invigorating for the research team since they get to see the impact of what they’re working on in a person right in front of them.”
People with lived experience— like patients, family members, and caregivers—bring unique and invaluable perspectives that make research more relevant and meaningful. We collaborate with people who have lived experience of chronic pain at every stage of the research process, from coming up with research ideas to sharing what we learn. Their insights help make sure that research reflects real-world experiences and leads to meaningful impact for the people it’s meant to help.
That’s why we created the BETTER (Bringing Everyone Together to Elevate Research) Panel! Members of the BETTER Panel meet regularly with members of the BPP team and get involved in projects that match their interests and comfort level. They work and are compensated as part of our team to help design studies, shape ideas, and share results. Together, we’re making research stronger, more inclusive, and more impactful.
Interested in partnering with us? Fill out a short survey!