For Grace - Championing the voices of women in Chronic Pain

For Grace, founded in 2002 by Cynthia Toussaint, is a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and advocating for women suffering from chronic pain. Cynthia, a former ballerina who was diagnosed with CRPS after a ballet injury, created the organization to address the lack of recognition and care for women in pain. Over the years, For Grace has expanded its mission to support all women facing chronic pain, using education and advocacy to combat the widespread gender bias in pain treatment.

The organization works through a multifaceted approach, including public speaking, media outreach, and policy advocacy. Cynthia’s personal story of suffering, misdiagnosis, and perseverance has been shared through national and international platforms, including television, radio, and print. Key initiatives include spearheading legislative efforts, such as California’s Step Therapy reform, and organizing critical hearings to shed light on the gender disparity in pain treatment. Since its inception, For Grace has been a leading voice for chronic pain sufferers, offering resources, education, and a platform for those often overlooked by traditional medical systems.

As the spokesperson and co-founder of For Grace, Cynthia continues to lead from her wheelchair, advocating for patients through media appearances, speaking engagements, and legislative action. Based in California, she remains a prominent figure in the chronic pain community, pushing for changes that will benefit countless women who, like her, have been marginalized and misunderstood by the healthcare system.

Adapted from:
https://www.healthywomen.org/u/cynthiatoussaint
https://www.mariashriversundaypaper.com/cynthia-toussaint-pain/

For more information:
https://www.forgrace.org
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oNxBe6LiLI&list=PLEB4E7A358AA8074D&index=2