Mother Struggles for Relief from Decades of Unbearable Pain

A mother in Gloucestershire is fighting for recognition and treatment after suffering from intense jaw pain for over two decades. Naomi Smith, 47, reports that her condition has deteriorated to the point where she can only open her mouth 14mm and experiences debilitating pain that leads her to vomit up to 30 times a day. After years of seeking help, she feels ignored by the National Health Service (NHS) and is desperate for a solution.

Naomi’s journey began at the age of 18 when she started experiencing jaw pain and teeth grinding. Despite being prescribed a mouthguard by her dentist, her symptoms worsened, leading to severe discomfort and limiting her ability to eat and drink. By 2014, Naomi’s pain had escalated to a level where she was unable to maintain a normal diet, prompting a rapid weight loss of three stone and leaving her feeling weak and fatigued.

Throughout her ordeal, Naomi has faced numerous medical appointments and has been given various diagnoses, including fibromyalgia and functional bowel disease. Despite these consultations, her condition continued to decline. In 2024, she was forced to leave her position as a children’s social, emotional, and mental health tutor due to her worsening symptoms.

Her partner, Darryl Brooks, 52, a painter and decorator, has taken on the role of primary caregiver and is currently raising funds for Naomi’s potential jaw-replacement surgery, which is described as “life-changing.” Darryl has set up a GoFundMe page with a target of £95,000 to cover the costs associated with private treatment, travel, and loss of earnings. As of the latest updates, the campaign has raised just £140.

Naomi’s health challenges intensified in 2025 when she was finally diagnosed with severe temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and severe jaw arthritis. Her doctor at Cheltenham General Hospital indicated that she may have suffered from TMJ for most of her life, which could have contributed to her chronic pain and numerous complications.

Despite this diagnosis, Naomi is still waiting to be added to the NHS surgery list for an arthroscopy, a procedure that could help alleviate her symptoms. Reports indicate that the wait for such surgery could take up to four years. During this time, Naomi has sought private treatments, including Botox, chiropractic care, and acupuncture, but has found little relief.

Naomi shared her frustration with the medical system, recounting a particularly dismissive comment from hospital staff who labeled her a “hysterical female.” She expressed the emotional toll of her condition, stating, “My children have had to watch me disappear in front of their eyes and decline physically and mentally. I am exhausted, starving, and desperate for a chance at life without pain.”

A spokesperson from Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust expressed sympathy for Naomi’s situation, acknowledging her ongoing pain and the challenges in obtaining a timely diagnosis. They stated, “Ms. Smith’s case is being taken seriously, and we are supporting her to ensure she receives the best care possible.” They also noted a coordinated effort to explore all possible avenues to improve her quality of life.

Despite the ongoing battle for proper treatment, Naomi remains hopeful that she can undergo the private bilateral jaw replacement surgery she desperately needs. For those wishing to support Naomi and Darryl in their quest for medical relief, donations can be made through their GoFundMe page.

The struggle faced by Naomi Smith highlights the urgent need for better patient care and responsiveness within healthcare systems, particularly for those suffering from complex and debilitating conditions.