Share Your Feelings on the Awareness of Fibromyalgia

Is there more awareness in the world of fibromyalgia compared to when you first got diagnosed?

I was diagnosed over twelve years ago. I feel there is more awareness but it seems fleeting and misleading. The commercials for medications like Lyrica and Cymbalta make it appear they cure it. They do not market honestly, as medications only help the pain to be more bearable or help us to do everyday things. We still have flares or times of unbearable pain even on the medication. Also I may see more awareness because I have become an advocate and watch and read research studies.

What do you think when you hear a celebrity is also suffering from fibromyalgia?

I was first happy that Lady Gaga came forward with fibromyalgia. However, it now seems she is not a strong enough advocate for others. I wish she could speak more directly and include others' stories. I recently heard of her wedding and the movie, A Star Is Born, but I wish she would put information out about how difficult those days were as a chronic pain sufferer. Because we, as the public, don't see that part of the big days in her life. Morgan Freeman as well... how does it affect his everyday living?

What do you think should be done to raise more awareness on fibromyalgia?

I would like to see a panel of sufferers on Dr.Phil, on the evening major news channels, discussing and advocating for more research. Physicians coming together in public and legislative platforms. As a trained advocate with the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association, I have met with my State representative as do other trained advocates but more, more, more. We cannot stop. The amount they put into research is just so little and there are over 9 million who suffer! We need to join voices and be louder and stronger together. We have National Awareness day, but we need to reach more professionals, physicians, legislatures, and media forums.