Maria, Arthritis of long evolution.

"I was really depressed and I never went out because of the pain on my knees. After doing the Self-Management course I have learnt that I feel better doing some soft exercise every day, although I would feel some pain at the beginning. Now I have more social life, I am happier and I do not feel so dependent of someone who takes care of me."

Asuncion, daughter of a patient who has diabetes.

"Since my mother was diagnosed diabetes I began to worry in excess about my health and my blood pressure went out of control. I got depressed and I began to get fat. With the Expert Patient Programme I have learnt that in order to take care of my mother  I must first  pay attention to my own health, to be in the best condition to help her."

Maria, 27 years old, a patient with  Multiple Sclerosis.

"I was diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis ten years ago. At the beginning it was difficult to accept it and only with the passing time I have learnt to live with my illness. With the Expert Patient Programme I have learnt to control may symptoms like pain, to get to know my doctor, and to turn to my family's support faced with fear to the future. Now I feel more self-confident that I am able to live with the condition. After doing the trainer course I started to teach the Self-Management course to other patients, which makes me feel very good."

Juan, 73 years old, patient with cancer.

"I was diagnosed a cancer three years ago. I have had very severe pain and I did not know how to explain what made me suffer. Since I did the Self-Management course I rely more on my family and my personal values which makes me feel able to cope with my illness better. Now I do not need so much medication for pain. Thanks a lot to Expert Patient."

Pedro, 39 years old, physically handicapped.

"At thirty years old, I had a traffic accident and I became Quadriplegic Since then I realised that my inability was objectively physical, and it also had a great psychic component. After doing the Expert Patient trainer's course, I teach to other people who have the same problems like mine and who can give sense to their life instead of their illness and who can feel useful for society. Although I am aware of my limitation I find myself more capable and less dependent which makes me feel very good."

Antonia, 45 years old, Depression.

"Due to family reasons I went into a depression which made me forget the interest for my health. I began to drink alcohol and to go out with a group of friends who were not suitable for me. With the Expert Patient Programme I have learnt to reject which is not suitable for me and I have strengthened my family ties. I have learnt to control my weight and stop drinking alcohol, thanks to the support of my partner."

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