Welcome !

[Guest guest]

Hello, and welcome to our group. My name is Cyndie, and I live near Seattle.

Yes, you are in the right place. I have had fibromyalgia for over 17 years, and

up until 2000, I didn't even have a diagnosis.

If you can stand it, allow me to offer a couple words of advice:

1.. By all means, do some research at the library or on the web. Learn all you

can about this condition. Just be aware that our disease is not always highly

embraced by some in the medical community or society in general, and these folks

also have websites. If you find yourself reading something that makes you feel

bad about yourself, stop. There are also lots of people who try to take

advantage of us with expensive " cures, " and treatments. Use your good sense,

okay? Take a look at the files for this group, there are lots of reputable

sites. I recommend some of the more scientific sites, like the mayo clinic, or

immune support .com, for up to the minute, less-bias research and info.

2.. I pray for your good luck in finding a doctor who is willing to treat you

for fms, when I know that you are struggling to afford a doctor at all. When it

comes to chronic pain and fibro, not all doctors are created equal. You are

probably better off not seeing a doctor than seeing one who doesn't believe in

fms, and doesn't believe that you are suffering. The key is to do some studying

first, then call around to the doctors and clinics in your area. Ask them if

they diagnose and treat fms. The receptionist will almost always know, and tell

you in no uncertain terms!

3.. Take care of yourself. You know what hurts and helps. Be strong in the

face of doubters and those who disbelieve or belittle you. Do what you can when

you can, and learn to say no gracefully.

4.. Keep in touch with others like us who can give you 100% support and

validation when you need it.