Chronic pain patients like Lilian are finding inspiration and connecting with others through the RIO Market Stall program

If you’d like to check out Lillian’s wares, this year’s market will be held in the RBWH Atrium on 19 and 21 August from 9am-2pm.

If you’d like to check out Lilian’s wares, this year’s market will be held in the RBWH Atrium on 19 and 21 August from 9am-2pm.

Lilian has always enjoyed being crafty with her hands, but due to chronic pain from osteoarthritis for the last nine years, it has been increasingly hard to find the motivation to take up her hobby.

“My pain has greatly affected my mobility,” Lilian said.

“I can no longer walk long distances, and I can’t get out as much as I used to.”

Since getting involved in the RIO Market Stall program at RBWH, run by the Tess Cramond Pain and Research Centre, Lilian has found the motivation to get back to making glass earrings and quilling paper cards.

“The program has been a great way to connect with others and get some inspiration for doing things that I used to enjoy.”

The Re-Engagement in Occupation Market Stall program was established in 2018 at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and allows patients presenting with chronic pain to re-engage in occupation through creating, marketing and selling handmade goods in a supportive environment.

Persistent pain is immensely disabling and impacts an individual’s ability to participate in daily and meaningful activities called occupations. The RIO Market Stall program facilitates re-engagement in occupations, particularly in the creation of handmade items and craft-related hobbies.

Through this creative outlet patients build social connections, develop increased self-efficacy and confidence in their skills which positively contributes to improved mental health and wellbeing.

“These creative activities also have helped me with my anxiety and depression. It keeps my mind occupied!” Lilian said.
If you’d like to check out Lilian’s wares, this year’s market will be held in the RBWH Atrium on 19 and 21 August from 9am-2pm.

Ten percent of market profits will go to the RBWH Foundation funding lifesaving research and patient care initiatives. The remaining proceeds will go towards the artisans and supporting the Tess Cramond Pain and Research Centre, located at STARS.