I am speaking up for CRPS awareness because too many people still do not understand what this condition is or how serious it can be. Nov 2nd was Paint the World Orange Day for CRPS awareness, and for me this is not just a hashtag or a trend. I am a survivor of CRPS and TOS, and I know what it means to live with something people often overlook, dismiss, or simply do not recognize.

That lack of awareness has real consequences. When medical staff are not trained to recognize CRPS, people can be ignored, misunderstood, or treated like their pain does not matter. Survivors should not have to fight to be believed while already dealing with a condition that affects every part of daily life. Awareness is important, but awareness inside hospitals and emergency rooms can change what happens to people in their most vulnerable moments.

That is why I am calling on hospitals and hospital systems to require clear, consistent training for emergency room staff on CRPS. Staff should understand what CRPS is, how severe the pain and complications can be, and why patients with CRPS need informed, compassionate care instead of confusion or dismissal. This is a practical step that can improve treatment, reduce harm, and help patients feel seen instead of pushed aside.

If you believe CRPS patients deserve to be taken seriously from the moment they ask for help, please sign this petition. Let’s turn awareness into action. We own this fight, and we should not have to face it alone.