September is Pain Awareness Month, and today I want to share something a little more personal. Many of you know me as SpookyMrsGreen, the Pagan housewife, author, and blogger who writes about family life, ghost hunts, and Gothic adventures. But behind the scenes, I live with a rare eye disease that causes chronic pain every single day.

My Journey with Ocular Surface Disease

I recently participated in a clinical study exploring the patient experience of Ocular Surface Disease (OSD). The finished article has now been published, and I am one of the subjects referenced. You can read it here: Clinical Study on OSD.

My diagnoses include:

• Dry Eye Disease (DED)
• Neuropathic Corneal Pain (NCP)
• And several related conditions not listed in the study.

On paper, “dry eyes” might sound minor, but the reality is far from it. These conditions cause constant burning, stinging, and nerve pain that can be completely debilitating. Imagine trying to work, look after your children, or even enjoy a family day out when your eyes feel like they are on fire.

Why This Matters

It is very hard to explain to the wider world that I live with a debilitating health condition. I often feel that because my illness is invisible, it is easily dismissed. People don’t always see the pain, the exhaustion, or the impact on my daily life.

This article goes some way towards validating my experience. To see my words, and those of others living with OSD, included in medical research feels important. It shows that our voices matter, and that the medical community is beginning to listen to patients like me.

Finding Strength as a Mum

As a mother, I push through the pain because I want my children to have a happy, full life. They know that some days I have to slow down, rest, or cancel plans when my eyes are too painful. And yet, through honesty and openness, I believe I am teaching them resilience, empathy, and the importance of looking after our health.

Pain Awareness Month reminds us that millions of people live with chronic pain conditions. Whether visible or invisible, their struggles are real. If you know someone who is dealing with pain, a little kindness and patience goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

I don’t usually write about my health in such detail, but it feels important to mark Pain Awareness Month with honesty. Living with chronic eye pain is part of my journey, and while it doesn’t define me, it does shape my daily life.

If you would like to understand more, you can read the published clinical study here: Clinical Study on OSD.

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