FAC’s FACes OF FIBROMYALGIA

Every year, on May 12th, we commemorated the International Fibromyalgia Awareness Day – a condition recognized by American College of Rheumatology in 1990 and by the World Health Organization in 1992(1). Participants around the world come together annually and take part in fundraising events, charity runs, awareness and education campaigns and other activities.

Since May 12th 2022 the “FACes of Fibromyalgia” campaign has increased awareness of the many people who suffer daily with fibromyalgia in Canada, which is estimated to be 5% of our population. Fibromyalgia does not discriminate based on age, gender, or race.

The “FACes of Fibromyalgia” campaign serves as a portrayal of the diverse challenges individuals with fibromyalgia encounter daily. Through compelling visuals, the campaign humanizes the often misunderstood condition, shedding light on the multifaceted impact it has on the lives of those of us with fibromyalgia. By featuring real faces, the campaign dispels misconceptions, advocates for increased awareness, and encourages a more inclusive dialogue surrounding fibromyalgia. It stands as a powerful advocacy tool, fostering compassion and solidarity among those affected by this complex and invisible health issue.

(1) 1992 – the World Health Organization (WHO) /divfibromyalgia as a disease and it was classified within non-articular rheumatisms under code M.79.7 of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). In 2016, WHO lists FM as a “disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue”, under the code M79.7. The WHO’s ICD10 does not refer to FM as a syndrome and it is not classified in the category of medically unexplained symptoms. M79.7 includes Fibromyalgia, Fibromyositis, Fibrositis and Myofibrositis (Sources: WHO ICD-10 | encyclopedia.pub | me-pedia.org )

FAC NEEDS YOU!!!

The FACes of Fibromyalgia Campaign is ongoing and FAC continues to accept your photo submission, no matter where you are in the world

FAC’s CALL TO ACTION is for those impacted by fibromyalgia to do the following:

  1. Take a headshot photo of yourself
  2. Email it to us by clicking here, including your First and Last name (or initials), as well as the City and Province (or state, country) you reside
  3. FAC will add your photo to a photo montage “FACes of Fibromyalgia,” on social media and the website
    ***Note: Emailing your photo is considered consent/authorization for using your image and likeness to Fibromyalgia Association of Canada (FAC) for the “FACes of Fibromyalgia” campaign.

Thank you to everyone who have submitted their photo and humanized this condition

Please, be aware the volume level may be loud – adjust your device volume if necessary

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