Following a motor vehicle accident (MVA) in my 20’s, I have lived with chronic pain for many years. A 2nd MVA a few years ago has flared up my symptoms considerably. As a nurse I have worked with people with persistent pain for several years. My own journey with pain has been helpful in understanding obstacles to pain management. My hope is that I can help others achieve better management and less suffering. Self Management is vitally important, and my personal goal is that all Canadians suffering from chronic pain have access to information about this strategy. My other goal is to educate all Canadian health care practitioners to more effective and compassionate chronic pain management strategies. No one should have to suffer more because of judgmental or uneducated health care practitioners.