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Portland Mayor Ethan Strimling recognized September as Chronic Pain Awareness month in a ceremony at the University of New England’s Portland Campus. The event was one in a series of events that month sponsored by ɫ����Ƶ’s student-run Pain Education and Advocacy Collaborative (PEAC), the Southern Maine Chronic Pain Support Group and Young People in Recovery.

Before reading the proclamation, Mayor Strimling thanked those who shared their personal stories of living with chronic pain and addiction. “I can’t imagine what it is like to live that way but I am inspired by your words and your willingness to tell others your story and the work that you do every day to try to survive.”

Similar proclamations were also signed in Saco and Biddeford. Samantha Shepard '17, PEAC facilitator, lives with chronic pain and expressed her gratitude for the support of all three municipalities.

"We are striving to make a deep impact in the lives of so many people, and we are very grateful for the support stemming from Mayor Strimling and the Cities of Portland, Biddeford and Saco,” she said. “The proclamation signing today gives us encouragement and hope that our messages will be heard and represented in our local and state government.” 

To learn more about the University of New England’s Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, visit

To apply, visit