If you've ever been told that your injury, illness, or disability means life will never be the same again, this episode of the Pain Free Living Podcast is for you.

Join osteopath Bob Allen and therapy coach Clare Elsby as they explore a form of grief that often goes unrecognised. They look at grieving the loss of the body, abilities, or the lifestyle you once had.

Many people associate grief with bereavement, but grief can also occur after a serious injury, chronic health condition, disability, relationship breakdown, or any major life change.

You’ll learn about the commonly recognised stages of grief, why they don’t always happen in order, and how they can affect your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Bob shares examples from clinical practice of people who were told they would never recover, only to go on and prove those predictions wrong. The conversation highlights the importance of hope, support, and recognising that healthcare outcomes are based on educated guesses rather than fact.

You'll also hear the inspiring story of Nick Wilson, a former soldier who experienced life-changing injuries, PTSD, depression, and disability.

After reaching his lowest point, Nick found a new purpose and became the "Disabled Adventurer", eventually becoming the first disabled person to complete a solo ascent of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) using a specially designed all-terrain powerchair.

Nick's story demonstrates how purpose, community, and determination can help people rebuild their lives after devastating change.

Most importantly, this episode reminds you that grief is a natural process and whatever loss you're facing, you don't have to go through it alone.

5 Key Takeaways

• Grief is not limited to bereavement; it can occur whenever your life changes significantly.
• The recognised stages of grief are not fixed or linear and everyone moves through them differently.
• Being told "you'll never do that again" is not always the end of the story and for some can be fuel for the fire.
• Having purpose, goals, and support can make a huge difference during recovery and adaptation.
• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Resources Mentioned

• Nick Wilson – Disabled Adventurer and accessibility campaigner. The Project RockClimber documentary follows his journey to becoming the first disabled person to complete a solo ascent of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in an all-terrain powerchair. You can watch it here https://youtu.be/j_Y9zngblCo?si=dwfnBJX5VGYCT5lU
• If this podcast content resonated with you and you would like to get some support for whatever you are experiencing, this link to Mind's website would be a good place to start. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/bereavement/support-and-self-care/

Disclaimer

Please note that tips or advice given in this podcast do not constitute medical, healthcare or any other form of professional advice.

If you have health or other issues, please seek advice specific to your circumstances from a qualified healthcare, medical, or other relevant professional.

About Your Hosts

Bob Allen is an osteopath, patient educator, podcast host, and public speaker with over 17 years' experience helping people understand pain, movement, and recovery. Drawing on both healthcare and a previous 20-year career in IT project management, Bob specialises in translating complex health topics into practical advice that people can use in everyday life.

Clare Elsby is an experienced therapy coach who uses positive psychology together with a background in accountancy to give her a unique perspective on the relationship between mindset, behaviour, and life challenges.

Learn More

📖 Bob's Story: https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory

🌱 Clare Elsby: https://www.clareelsby.com/

📧 Newsletter Sign-Up: https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup

🌐 Social Media & Podcast Platforms: https://linktr.ee/Painfreeliving