Rebecca Harris has pledged to lend her support to a campaign to raise awareness for sufferers of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CPRS). Following a meeting with sufferers from across the country in Westminster this week the Castle Point MP expressed her dismay at the plight of those diagnosed with the condition.

CRPS is an excruciating and debilitating chronic disease which affects approximately 5% of all injuries that occur. Unfortunately the condition remains relatively unknown and under-researched. The condition causes severe and constant pain and typically affects the limbs, but can spread to any area of the body. There is no known cure for CRPS.

Having attended the meeting with a number of other MPs, Rebecca has pledged that if she is returned to the House of Commons she will champion this cause in Parliament. Mr Peter Lacey, a Benfleet resident who suffers from CRPS, said:

“Support from Members of Parliament is crucial if we are to raise awareness for CRPS. Not everyone with a disability has a wheelchair, not all disabilities are visible.”

Speaking after the meeting the Castle Point MP said:

“I was absolutely horrified by what I have heard today! The pain and suffering caused by this condition is incredible and yet there is little to no research being done on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I fully support the call for a campaign group in Parliament and will be proud to be part of such a group.”

The group has called on MPs and members of the public to take part in the “Ice Bowl Challenge”. This challenge would see participants place their hand in a bowl of ice water for 60 seconds, without removing it, to simulate the pain caused by CRPS.