In 2021, JJ Ritter’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a rare and debilitating neurological condition often referred to as the “Suicide Disease” due to the unrelenting, excruciating pain it causes. According to the McGill Pain Index, CRPS ranks among the highest recorded pain levels—more intense than amputation or natural childbirth—with no known cure and limited treatment options. And yet, despite its severity, the condition is still often overlooked or dismissed, even within medical circles.
This lack of recognition adds a heavy emotional toll to an already devastating diagnosis. Many CRPS warriors, like JJ, find themselves isolated and misunderstood, navigating not only constant physical agony but also the emotional grief of losing the life they once knew. But in the midst of the pain and uncertainty, JJ chose to fight back—not just for himself, but for others.
At the six-month mark after his diagnosis, JJ’s spine specialist told him something that stuck with him: “The greatest defence or treatment against CRPS is knowledge.” That truth became JJ’s guiding light. As he learned more about his condition, its triggers, and how to live with it, he began to write. Not to escape the pain, but to give it a voice.
That voice became a book: Hope Undivided – Memoirs of an Ordinary Man Living with a Not So Ordinary Disease. It’s a raw, heartfelt account of JJ’s journey through suffering, resilience, and healing. It’s also a powerful tool for raising awareness about CRPS and invisible illnesses—particularly among those who feel unseen and unheard.
To bring this book to life, JJ has created a campaign on BackaBuddy with the goal of raising R50,000. The funds will support:
- Publishing and printing costs: including professional editing, cover design, layout, ISBN registration, and the initial print run
- CRPS awareness initiatives: tied to the book’s launch, including educational talks and outreach
- Translation and accessibility efforts: including audio versions for people living with disabilities
- Book distribution: to hospitals, doctors, and individuals who need it most
- Supporting his family: allowing JJ to remain present and mobile for his wife and two sons—his greatest reason to keep going
With the help of 6 generous donors, JJ has already raised over R5,000 toward his goal.
JJ’s dream is simple: to reach those who feel invisible. To let fellow warriors and their loved ones know they’re not alone. And to challenge the way society views chronic illness, masculinity, and pain. Through Hope Undivided, JJ wants to shift the narrative—from silence and stigma to truth, resilience, and hope.
“Having gone through what I have so far on this journey has taught me a lot—about what to expect, what to try, what to avoid, what to do, and what not to do. This is the kind of knowledge that saved me, and it’s the kind of knowledge I want to share.” – JJ Ritter
JJ plans to launch Hope Undivided this November in honour of CRPS Awareness Month.
If his story resonates with you—whether you’ve battled chronic pain, supported someone who has, or simply believe in the power of storytelling—you’re invited to be part of this journey.
Watch video here:
SOURCE: MyPR