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NFA Launches “Make Fibromyalgia Visible” Campaign
Program designed to reach isolated patients and improve public understanding
ANAHEIM, Calif. (Nov. 6, 2009) —In an effort to bring attention to the life-alerting effects of fibromyalgia and help dispel the devastating consequences of misinformation, the National Fibromyalgia Association has launched “Make
Fibromyalgia Visible.” The far-reaching campaign will consist of several components, all of which will be aimed at bringing hope to this often isolated and ridiculed patient population through improved public knowledge of this chronic pain disorder.
Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 10 million Americans and millions of others worldwide. Characterized by widespread chronic pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance, the condition is often referred to as an invisible disease since the symptoms are not immediately apparent. However, just like a brain injury or epilepsy, the disorder can significantly impair normal activities of daily living.
“Although many of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia go unseen, the people affected by this disorder are real and worthy of the same support as those who suffer from other health conditions, such as cancer or thyroid disease,” says NFA president Lynne Matallana.
Despite scientific advances into the etiology and treatment of FM, including more than 4,000 published research papers, the disorder and the individuals who suffer from it continue to be scrutinized. These factors as well as new developments, including a recent study that found people with fibromyalgia have several neurologic signs and symptoms, have led to the timing of this aggressive campaign.
“It’s an exciting time in the field of fibromyalgia, from significant new research findings and the healthcare community taking more of an interest in the disorder, to a new public service announcement airing on national TV,” says Matallana. “We want to take advantage of these conditions to further understanding of fibromyalgia and the individuals who suffer from it.”
During the campaign, the NFA will continue to work with the media and healthcare providers on a number of initiatives designed to provide accurate information and improve patient care. Individuals affected by fibromyalgia will also have the opportunity to “Make Fibromyalgia Visible” in their own communities.
The program includes a variety of tools to help spread the word about the campaign and, more importantly, create more awareness of this “invisible” disorder.
Here’s how you can help:
- Include the “Make Fibromyalgia Visible” logo as part of your email signature or use as a photo for your Facebook page, personal website or blog...or anywhere else you can think of! To copy or download this FREE logo,
[CLICK HERE ]
- Place one or more of the “Make Fibromyalgia Visible” products on your car or another visible place. The NFA has launched three new products specifically designed for this campaign
Additional components of the campaign will be revealed over the next few months. Stay tuned for a very special announcement coming in January 2010.
ABOUT THE NFA:
The National Fibromyalgia Association is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that develops and executes programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with fibromyalgia. Efforts focus on patient education and assistance, advocacy, healthcare professional education and the facilitation of research. The NFA publishes a quarterly magazine, Fibromyalgia AWARE, and hosts an award-winning website at www.FMaware.org
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