Letter: Reader urges awareness of fibromyalgia illness

Friday, May 22, 1998 | 10:57 a.m.

Fibromyalgia is very real. It has no respect for age, color or sex. It has the capability of robbing me and others of everything that is dear to us.

I live daily with the symptoms of Fibromyalgia Syndrome, which includes muscle pain, widespread stiffness, fatigue and weakness. I am unable to work, take care of my family or enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as playing with my grandchildren or a loving hug.

Just imagine feeling like you have been run over by a truck every hour of every day. Imagine being so weak that you can't cut your own food and the act of eating exhausts you.

Imagine that doctors tell you that you are sick, but that you are not going to die; that they don't know what causes your illness and that there is no cure for what you have; that you will just have to get used to the pain and fatigue.

Imagine that this person is your sister, your mother, your daughter or your son. Now imagine that this person is you. This person is me -- and millions of others like me.

If you know someone who suffers from fibromyalgia, stand by them -- they need your understanding and support. Please, help me and the Arthritis Foundation find a cure for fibromyalgia. The quality of your life may depend on it.

Lois Davidson, Founder, Las Vegas Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group

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