At A Life in a Day, every simulation we create is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and real lived experiences. With one of our newest immersive experiences of what it’s like to live with obesity, the need and passion for creating an empathetic experience through patient collaboration was more powerful than ever.
One of the leading voices in this project was Ken Clare — Executive Director of the UK Coalition of People Living with Obesity (UKCPO), a passionate advocate, and importantly, someone with personal lived experience. Ken was instrumental in shaping this simulation, helping us navigate the complex, nuanced and often stigmatised world of obesity with care and honesty.
Overcoming Sensitivity with Honesty
In our conversation with Ken, he opened up about his initial skepticism of what the experience would entail and the results it would bring. When you’ve lived through years of misunderstanding and misrepresentation, it’s natural to question whether another project within healthcare could truly reflect the lived reality of people living with obesity.
What followed was a turning point however, as through open dialogue, a supported listening environment, and ongoing collaboration, Ken started to see something different.
Patients at the Heart
Alongside Ken, there were several other individuals living with obesity and patient advocates, all of whom shared their time, stories, and thoughts to keep the experience as close to reality as possible. By bringing patients into the heart of the process, the result was richer, more real, and undeniably more impactful.
Learning from the Past
In the interview, Ken reflected on why previous attempts to involve patients in healthcare initiatives have often missed the mark. Too often, patients are invited in too late — once decisions are already made. Or they’re asked to ‘rubber stamp’ an idea, rather than contribute meaningfully to its development.
Expanding Influence
As Ken mentions, this isn’t just a one-off project in his opinion, and we tend to agree. With hopes for taking the project to international advocate groups, the creation of our patient experience has shown what’s possible when you work with patients and not just for them.
