In September 2009, Aneeta Prem experienced her first attack of trigeminal neuralgia, a severe facial pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve carries sensation, including pain and touch, from the face, teeth and mouth to the brain. In many cases, trigeminal neuralgia is linked to pressure on the nerve, often from a nearby blood vessel. The condition left Aneeta living with extreme facial pain and serious sleep disruption. After years of uncertainty, she received a diagnosis around 2016 to 2017. In 2019, she underwent microvascular decompression surgery at University College London Hospitals in an attempt to relieve the pain.In 2020, Aneeta accepted the role of Chief Executive Officer of Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK, known as TNA UK, after previously supporting the charity as its patron.
Since then, TNA UK’s membership has almost tripled, reflecting a significant increase in public awareness, patient engagement and demand for support.During the Covid-19 pandemic, Aneeta launched online webinars that brought leading clinicians, specialists and expert speakers directly into members’ homes. Many people living with trigeminal neuralgia described these sessions as a lifeline, particularly at a time when pain, isolation and uncertainty were intensified by lockdown.Aneeta also recognised that a disabling and often invisible facial pain condition can make in-person attendance difficult. Online support has therefore continued alongside TNA UK’s Regional Support Groups, helping patients, carers and families access information, connection and practical support wherever they live.
Under Aneeta Prem’s leadership, TNA UK has strengthened access to support for people living with trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain. The charity has launched a Freephone Helpline and e-helpline, and Aneeta has also introduced the Friendship Line to help reduce isolation among people affected by this severe and often misunderstood condition.
Aneeta is committed to working with leading clinicians, researchers and specialists to improve awareness, strengthen patient support and explore better ways to reduce the impact of trigeminal neuralgia on daily life.
She has also introduced fundraising and awareness initiatives including Tea for TNA, #FaceofTN, #ShowTN3Fingers and #TalkShareMakeOthersAware. Her work continues to focus on increasing support for Regional Support Groups, the Telephone Helpline, the e-helpline, the Friendship Line and much-needed research into trigeminal neuralgia, its causes, treatment options and long-term impact.
