The recent Canadian Pain Society (CPS) meeting ended with a bang—one of the final sessions brought together trainees and people with lived/living experience (PWLE) in a powerful and energizing way. Both groups had been expressing a desire to connect informally: trainees wanted to better understand the lived experience of pain and how their research makes an impact, while PWLE wanted to support the next generation of researchers in engaging in meaningful, patient-oriented research.
The University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain hosted a lunch at the beautiful Hart House, welcoming nearly 100 participants. The agenda was co-developed by trainees and PWLE to foster open dialogue and shared learning. We were thrilled to partner with Passerelle, Canada’s national training entity for patient-oriented research, who co-led the afternoon activities.
Yvonne from Passerelle guided a fun and thought-provoking group activity focused on crafting a meaningful “ask”—how to invite PWLE into research respectfully and effectively. Groups shared their draft messages and reflections, sparking laughter, applause, and genuine inspiration.
This event left us hopeful and energized. These trainees get it. They care, they listen, and they’re ready to lead. A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped make this a standout moment of CPS 2025.
