From the FMS Global News Desk of Jeanne Hambleton
With just weeks to go to the final booking date, fibromites from all around the UK are rushing for places at a weekend filled with laughter, fun, relaxation and learning.
Believed to be the first Fibromyalgia Conference in the south east of England working under the FMA UK umbrella, influenced by a yoga teacher working with fibromites, Sarah Owen, the event is offering pampering as a unique part of the programme along with leading speakers in the field of fibromyalgia.
Between 20 and 30 pamper therapists are expected to give free tasters allowing fibromites to try complementary therapies they have not previously experienced prior to booking one to one therapies at reduced cost at conference.
While many visitors are coming for the pamper experience, lots of fibromites have admitted they want to meet like-minded people from other groups with the view to twinning with other UK groups. Living in a world that does not understand fibromyalgia, those suffering with FMS enjoy the company of others suffering with the same condition. The idea of twinning has prompted one small Tee group with just 12 members to be the first group to enlist in a twinning programme with a partner group.
Others are anxious to listen to the speakers, attend workshops and try new treatments in the exhibition for those with disability and needing pain relief. The event will include scooters, adjustable beds, tilt and rise chairs, walk in baths, walkers, wheelchairs, fancy walking sticks and much more.
Dr. Ernest Choy, a consultant rheumatologist from Kings College Hospital, London, who specialises in fibromyalgia, who will travel from the annual meeting of the British Society of Rheumatology to join the conference. The Doctor will talk about new advances in the understanding of fibromyalgia. Other speakers will discuss sleep, pain management, digestive problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, food and mood, nutrition, benefits, and the controversial lightning process used by Esther Rantzen’s daughter for her ME/CFS.
Social highlights of the weekend will be the Fibro Factor, a chance for fibromites to have their moment in the spotlight. Following a gala dinner there will be the Folly Pogs Ball with posh frocks and dickie bow ties or fancy dress options. On Sunday the audience will join a charity auction of donated gifts to raise funds for fibromyalgia research.
Among the visitors will be Pam Stewart, chairman of the board of trustees for FMA UK, who is also the Vice President of the European Network of Fibromyalgia Association. Pam is looking forward to meeting newly diagnosed fibromites, members and group leaders.
“We have every intention on over dosing on laughter, which is the best medicine and has no side effects,” said who is one of the main organisers.
For more information email jeannehambleton@mac.com.
