WHEREAS, Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain illness that affects over 568,000 Virginian residents; and

WHEREAS, over 21 million people nationwide have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, a disease for which there currently no known cure; and

WHEREAS, Fibromyalgia affects the central nervous system causing widespread body pain, extreme fatigue, sleep disorders, and cognitive dysfunction, including impairments in memory and concentration; and

WHEREAS, public information, medical education, research, and resources remain inadequately disseminated and insufficient to properly serve patient communities and address the needs of this diverse and underserved population; and

WHEREAS, Fibromyalgia affects both children and young adults, and presents unique challenges for this population who not only struggle with the symptoms of this illness, but also from the lack of understanding and social acceptance; and

WHEREAS, increased awareness and understanding among the public, healthcare providers, and policymakers of the complex management of fibromyalgia and its impact on patients’ function and quality of life can reduce the stigma associated with this illness; and

WHEREAS, Fibromyalgia advocates, patients, and caregivers have joined together to advocate for enhanced awareness, research, treatment, diagnosis, and education; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize May 2026, as FIBROMYALGIA AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.