ORANGE, CA — Some health and fitness organizations, including Curves International, the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) and Walkstyles have partnered with the National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) to promote Fibromyalgia Awareness Day 2005 on May 12, 2005.
This year's theme of the annual campaign is “BE AWARE! BE ACTIVE!” to raise awareness of the physically debilitating effects of fibromyalgia while promoting the benefits of moderate and gradual physical activity and exercise in improving symptoms.
Partnering organizations will help disseminate information about fibromyalgia and its treatments. Participating fitness locations will offer free classes and other services during the week of or on May 12 to commemorate the day.
“Much scientific evidence supports exercise as an important component of coping with fibromyalgia, but we understand that people suffering from this chronic pain illness may feel that exercise is difficult at times and can actually cause more pain,” Lynne Matallana, president and founder of the NFA, said in a release. “Fibromyalgia affects everyone differently and exercise may not be appropriate or within the capacity of everyone; however, with our informational campaign and with the help of our sponsors, we want to provide a variety of approaches to physical activity that takes into consideration each person's level of ability. We applaud the efforts of people with fibromyalgia and the strength they show while struggling with this illness.”