Young Patients Committee

Individuals under 40 with neuropathic facial pain face unique challenges. Trigeminal neuralgia usually affects older adults, making diagnosis more complex for younger patients due to limited resources. The Young Patients Committee focuses on advocacy and support for those dealing with pain while navigating school, starting careers, and building relationships. These situations add extra difficulties for young patients.

The YPC

The Young Patient’s Committee (YPC) assists in fulfilling the mission of the Facial Pain Association (FPA) by representing the interests of people under 40 who live with neuropathic facial pain. Founded in 2011, the YPC strives to give a voice to the needs of young patients and raise awareness by dispelling the myth that TN does not affect young people. The YPC makes recommendations to the FPA Board of Directors regarding issues of concern to the younger generation and develops events, opportunities, and initiatives on behalf of young patients and their families.

Our Goals

• Providing support for young patients and their families
• Advocating for young facial pain patients
• Raising awareness about facial pain
• Engaging with the facial pain community
• Raising support for programs that benefit young people with facial pain, and for the advancement of the FPA mission

Support

Our virtual support group meets on Zoom every month, providing a place for you to meet others who understand you and to learn valuable tips. Email for more information on the schedule.

Blog

• If All You Did Today Is Survive, We Are Proud of You.
• Messages to a Young Patient Newly Diagnosed with Facial Pain
• Meet the Young Patients Committee

Resources

• Articles
• Webinars
• YPC Scholarship
  

  Students who struggle with or succeed in their fight against neuropathic facial pain deserve assistance in
  their pursuit of post-secondary education. Ambitious students who attend college despite their facial pain
  setbacks display impressive resolve, and the Young Patients Committee of the Facial Pain Association wants to
  recognize and reward these determined individuals. This scholarship is made available through donations and the
  generosity of people like you — thank you!

  The Young Patients Committee Facial Pain Resiliency Academic Scholarship is available to US
  students with facial pain between the ages of 18-40 attending school, college, or university. An exception to age
  will be made if you are 17 and starting post-secondary education in the semester following the application.
  The award amount is $500 per winner (two) and is available twice a year. Applicants must
  complete this application in full, including upload requests, to be deemed eligible for consideration.

  Have a question? Email [email protected].

  *Please be aware that your essay may be shared or made public after submission to inspire others and encourage
  donations for further scholarship opportunities. Please contact us if this may be an issue.

  Apply Today

• YPC Scholarship Recipients Essays
  
  • Spring 2024 YPC Scholarship Recipient — Jennifer Hoeksema
  • Spring 2024 YPC Scholarship Recipient — Adrienne Burg
  • Fall 2023 YPC Scholarship Recipient – Bennett Decker
  • Read More

Connect with Us

• The YPC is on social media and has an active community where you can find articles of interest to young patients and a community of support. 
  
  • : @youngpatients 
  • : @youngpatients
  • (Formerly Twitter): @youngpatients  
  • : @tealribboncrafts 
• Merchandise sales on Etsy to raise funds through face pain-related merchandise that helps raise awareness.
• Birthday & Happy Mail please sign up on the Google form and receive some sparkle in the mail!
• Want to help? Let us know if you want to volunteer🎉 . This program is open to all ages.

YPC Members

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you. Email YPC.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: Please note that the Young Patients Committee of FPA’s blogs and social media platforms are intended to convey general educational information and support, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.