A house RESOLUTION

 

TO DECLARE MAY 12, 2023, AS FIBROMYALGIA AWARENESS DAY IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

 

Whereas, Fibromyalgia Awareness Day aims to raise awareness and end the stigma and discrimination that accompany this chronic illness; and

 

Whereas, fibromyalgia is a complex chronic illness that causes overwhelming fatigue, cognitive problems, and debilitating chronic pain in all genders, ages, and races; and

 

Whereas, over four million people in the United States-2-4% of our population, along with millions of other people worldwide-have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a disease for which there is no known cure; and

 

Whereas, fibromyalgia often takes an average of three to five years to diagnose; and

 

Whereas, existing public information, medical education, research, and resources to properly serve patient communities remain inadequately disseminated and are insufficient in addressing the needs of specific diverse populations and other underserved groups; and

 

Whereas, fibromyalgia is present in both children and young adults. Unique challenges face those in this population, who not only struggle with symptoms of the illness but also suffer from lack of understanding and lack of social acceptance; and

 

Whereas, patients with fibromyalgia often have several coexisting conditions, which may include chronic myofascial pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), environmental sensitivities, anxiety, and depression; and

 

Whereas, fibromyalgia greatly reduces quality of life; can cause total disability; and affects families, friends, and employers. Living daily with chronic pain and fatigue can lead to social isolation, depression, and anxiety, so it is important for sufferers and their families, friends, and caregivers to know they are not alone; and

 

Whereas, people with fibromyalgia have a right to be treated with dignity and a right to pain relief; and

 

Whereas, the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Network, Support Fibromyalgia Network, and National Fibromyalgia Association have joined together to advocate for fibromyalgia awareness, through public awareness, education, and research for a better future of diagnosis and treatment. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, declare May 12, 2023, as Fibromyalgia Awareness Day in the State of South Carolina.

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