WHEREAS Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS), a disease for which there is no known cause or cure, causes multiple health issues for people of all ages, genders and ethnicities, effecting an estimated 3 to 5% of the general public and millions of people worldwide; and

WHEREAS patients with this severe chronic illness often have to learn to live with widespread debilitating pain throughout their bodies; extreme fatigue and sleep disorders; neurological and neurocognitive impairments, including issues with memory and concentration, and other endocrine, digestive and immune system issues; and

WHEREAS increased awareness and expanded knowledge of the realities of life with Fibromyalgia will allow individuals, families, support people and the community at large to better understand and support people who struggle with the challenges of this chronic health disorder and enable them to participate in the life of the community; and

WHEREAS many people living with Fibromyalgia are still finding it difficult to   secure adequate medical care, disability benefits, appropriate housing and knowledgeable understanding and recognition from medical, educational, government and public agencies regarding basic needs for daily living; and

WHEREAS the Fibromyalgia Society of Edmonton and Area offers support to their members and others living with Fibromyalgia Syndrome and related health issues and holds special educational events to raise awareness and understanding, improve diagnosis and treatment and promote research.

NOW THEREFORE I,Mayor Roxanne Carr, do hereby proclaim May 12 as International Fibromyalgia Awareness Day and the month of May to be Fibromyalgia Awareness Month in Strathcona County.

DATED this 25th day of April 2017,

Roxanne Carr, MAYOR

STRATHCONA COUNTY