3. Poppy

The mystery diagnosis that sheds light on pain.

After a routine knee-op, 23-year-old Poppy comes round in excruciating pain. Her leg changes colour, soon she can’t walk, yet her scans show nothing wrong with her knee.

Doctors are baffled and about to discharge her when she’s seen by Dr Deepak Ravindran - one of the UK’s top pain consultants - who solves the mystery. In Room 5, Helena Merriman shares stories of real-life medical mysteries, interviewing people who - like her - were changed by a diagnosis. Combining intimate storytelling, immersive sound design, candid interviews, science and a large dose of compassion, Room 5 is a gripping portrait of extraordinary people at a moment when everything changes. Written and presented by Helena Merriman Produced by Claire Bowes and Helena Merriman Composer: Jeremy Warmsley Sound Design: Eloise Whitmore Production Co-ordinator: Janet Staples Editor: Emma Rippon #Room5 End song: Miffed by Tom Rosenthal