Meet Tom Norris - World Patients Alliance

This section features Questions and Answers with Tom Norris, member, WPA Advisory Board.

Patients’ Voice is WPA’s quarterly Newsletter opening windows to news, activities, interactions and events organized by WPA, its member organizations around the globe and the international stakeholders working for patient safety and quality healthcare.

Patients’ Voice features an interview with the top-tier WPA management in the quarterly issue and in Feb 2025, this is the time to meet Tom Norris Patients’ Voice, thanks for sharing his story.

Patients’ Voice: When did you first get involved in the nonprofit world/community?

TN: I became involved in the nonprofit community in 1999 after being medically retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force, following 23 years of service. My military career taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, strategic planning, and team coordination—skills that prepared me to make a difference in the nonprofit world. My journey began with a neighbourhood association founded by my wife in Los Angeles, where I served as the sole teacher for 55 at-risk children each year for five years. Transitioning to nonprofit work allowed me to channel my skills into community engagement and mentorship. In 1999, as my chronic pain became increasingly unmanageable, I sought new ways to help myself and others. I joined the American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA), marking the start of my advocacy for those living with chronic pain and my work in patient empowerment and patient engagement.

Patients’ Voice: What led you to get involved?

TN: Living with the challenges that accompany chronic pain made me acutely aware of the critical need for support, understanding, and advocacy for others facing similar challenges, no matter the condition. Mentoring at-risk children through the neighbourhood association showed me that helping others doesn’t just change lives—it transforms hearts. This work reinforced my belief in the transformative power of community engagement. These experiences naturally led me to the ACPA, where I could focus on empowering individuals living with chronic pain. Through advocacy, education, and resource-building, I found my purpose: to uplift others and help them rediscover hope and agency in their lives.

Patients’ Voice: Is your background in nonprofit management or were you involved in a career when you began your work?

TN: My background is not in nonprofit management. My career began as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force, where I served with pride for 23 years. I hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration, which has equipped me with a strong foundation in organizational leadership and public service. I honed strategic planning and leadership skills during my military career, which now guide my nonprofit work and my efforts toward patient empowerment and patient engagement. When I retired, I knew I wanted to continue serving others in a way that mattered deeply to me. The transition to nonprofit advocacy allowed me to turn my personal experiences and professional expertise into a force for good. Living with chronic pain for over three decades has been an ongoing challenge, both physically and emotionally. It taught me resilience and the importance of finding purpose in adversity. My decision to join the ACPA wasn’t just about finding resources for myself—it was about ensuring that others wouldn’t feel as isolated as I once did. Chronic pain is a silent battle, and I wanted to give it a voice.

Patients’ Voice: What would you say is the most rewarding part of working with a nonprofit?

TN: The most rewarding part of nonprofit work is seeing the direct impact it has on people’s lives. Helping someone feel supported, advocating for better healthcare policies, or ensuring access to effective pain management and quality care—all of these moments are deeply fulfilling. Their relief and gratitude were powerful reminders of the importance of our work. My work in advocacy has deepened my appreciation for small moments of connection, whether it’s a heartfelt “thank you” from a patient or a shared victory with my team. These experiences have reinforced my belief that even the smallest actions can ripple out and create lasting change.

Patients’ Voice: What is the most challenging part of working with a nonprofit?

TN: The biggest challenge is addressing the overwhelming need for support with limited resources. Nonprofits often operate under tight budgets, and the desire to help everyone can feel daunting. Resource limitations often force difficult decisions, such as prioritizing one program over another. Focusing on education had the greatest long-term impact, showing me that collaboration can turn challenges into triumphs.

Patients’ Voice: What would you tell someone who was thinking about working or being involved with a nonprofit health organization?

TN: If you’re thinking about getting involved, don’t hesitate—just take the leap. Working with a nonprofit health organization will transform your life as much as the lives of those you help. You’ll find immense fulfillment in making a difference, whether it’s by giving someone hope, helping them access care, or advocating for systemic change. I’ve witnessed patients go from feeling powerless to thriving as they learn to advocate for themselves. It’s a remarkable journey, and being part of their transformation is a privilege. Volunteering is an excellent way to start. Whether it’s assisting with events, helping with administrative tasks, or offering professional expertise, every contribution makes a difference. Building relationships within the nonprofit community is also key—it’s through collaboration and shared passion that real change happens. Every action matters and contributes to a brighter future for others.

Patients’ Voice: What are you most proud of because of your work?

TN: I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built and the lives I’ve been able to touch. Through advocacy and support, we connected them with the resources they needed, and their life was transformed. Knowing that our work has this kind of profound impact keeps me inspired and determined to continue. Advocating for better insurance coverage led to policy changes benefiting many patients.

Patients’ Voice: If you want, you can share a little bit about you. The number of kids, pets, and anything things else that would put a more personal spin on the article.

TN: I live with my wife and partner, Marianne, whose unwavering love and encouragement have been the foundation of my work. Her support has been a constant source of strength as I navigate the challenges of chronic pain and dedicate myself to advocacy. I’ve lived with chronic pain for over 37 years, but instead of letting it define me, it has driven me to help others. Marianne and I cherish the little things, like playing Gin Rummy every evening after dinner—a tradition that brings us joy and connection. Outside of my work, I love to read and write, finding inspiration in stories that remind me of resilience and hope.

As I reflect on my journey, I am inspired by the potential to do even more. My vision is a world where no one has to face chronic pain alone—a world where patients have access to the care, resources, and understanding they need. Greater collaboration between nonprofits, researchers, and policymakers can create a unified approach to addressing chronic pain. I also hope to see more resources allocated to patient-centered care, including expanded access to holistic therapies and better education for healthcare providers. Together, we can create a future of hope, compassion, and opportunity for all.