I am one of the countless individuals living with chronic pain due to degenerative disc disease. Despite a significant percentage of the population suffering from this condition, it remains largely undiscussed in public forums. The treatment provided by NHS is inadequate and requires immediate government intervention, increased funding, and heightened awareness about its impact on individuals and their families.

People with this condition often 'look okay' but are in excruciating pain, leading to deteriorating mental health. The suicide rate among people living with long-term chronic pain is alarmingly high - a clear indication that more needs to be done.

According to the British Pain Society, around 28 million adults in the UK suffer from chronic pain. Yet, despite these staggering numbers, there is a lack of understanding about degenerative disc disease's debilitating effects.

We urge our government to invest more resources into improving treatments available on NHS for those suffering from degenerative disc disease and initiate public discussions to raise awareness about this silent epidemic affecting so many lives. Please sign this petition if you believe everyone deserves access to adequate healthcare services and support for managing chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease.