By: Melissa Sampson
Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that affects 1 in 16 people, is a common but often misunderstood condition, especially when it comes to medical treatment and research. Tami Stackelhouse, founder of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute (IFCI), has dedicated the past 16 years to increasing public awareness and advocating for better research and treatment for fibromyalgia patients. Her recent effort centers around securing official recognition for Fibromyalgia Awareness Day on May 12th and making May Fibromyalgia Awareness Month nationwide.
Tami is part of a coalition that aims to ensure that fibromyalgia, often relegated to the background in terms of awareness and funding, is given the attention it deserves. By working with each state’s governor’s office to secure official proclamations, they hope to bring widespread recognition to the struggles of millions of people living with fibromyalgia.
Raising Awareness Through Official Proclamations
Governor’s proclamations, though seemingly simple, are powerful tools in advocating for health issues. These official state documents give legal recognition to significant causes and provide the weight necessary to amplify advocacy efforts.
As Tami explains, “By securing these proclamations, we show that fibromyalgia is not just a condition that people struggle with in silence, but one that is worthy of recognition. These proclamations serve as official endorsements from the state, showing lawmakers and the public that fibromyalgia deserves more research, better treatment options, and increased awareness.”
In 2024, the coalition of organizations, which includes Tami’s Institute, the Fibromyalgia Association and Veteran Voices for Fibromyalgia, successfully obtained proclamations in 27 states. As we head into 2025, they are continuing their efforts to secure even more proclamations to make Fibromyalgia Awareness Day and Awareness Month official across the country.
The Need for Fibromyalgia Awareness
Fibromyalgia affects millions, but the awareness surrounding it remains minimal. One of the startling statistics is the lack of research funding for fibromyalgia. Tami points out, “Fibromyalgia affects over 9 times more people than rheumatoid arthritis, yet rheumatoid arthritis has 17 times the research published in major rheumatological journals. The main reason for this is funding. This is not only unfair, but it also underscores the need for greater awareness and support for fibromyalgia patients.”
Fibromyalgia is an under-researched condition in rheumatology. This leads to a severe gap in effective treatments, inadequate education for healthcare providers, and widespread misconceptions about the condition. Tami believes that by securing these proclamations, fibromyalgia will gain the visibility it desperately needs, leading to more funding for research, better treatment protocols, and a more informed medical community.
“Awareness leads to action. When people see that fibromyalgia is a widespread and serious condition, it will help us secure the research funding necessary for developing better treatments,” Tami says. “We need people to understand that fibromyalgia is a real, physical condition, not just something women are ‘making up’ or a ‘psychological’ disorder.”
Coordinated Efforts and Grassroots Support
Tami’s advocacy for fibromyalgia awareness has grown into a powerful grassroots movement. Thanks to a coordinated effort with other fibromyalgia organizations and IFCI’s alumni network of Certified Fibromyalgia Coach® and Certified Fibromyalgia Advisor® graduates, her team is pushing for proclamations in every state across the country. The work of Melissa Swanson, a Certified Fibromyalgia Advisor® and advocate at Fibro Warriors ~ Living Life, has been instrumental in helping to coordinate these efforts on behalf of her Institute.
“We have worked hard to make the process as easy as possible for anyone interested in helping,” Tami explains. “Even if you don’t have fibromyalgia, you can still be part of this movement by helping to submit a proclamation request in your state.”
As of 2025, the coalition of organizations has successfully submitted applications in 40 states, with proclamations received in 22 states so far. This year, they are focused on securing proclamations in the remaining states to ensure that Fibromyalgia Awareness Month and Fibromyalgia Awareness Day are officially recognized nationwide.
How You Can Get Involved
Tami is calling on the fibromyalgia community to continue spreading the word and securing these vital proclamations. “It doesn’t matter whether or not you have fibromyalgia. If you live in a state where we haven’t yet secured a proclamation, we need your help,” says Tami.
Melissa Swanson adds, “We’ve streamlined the process. We’ve provided all the instructions and support so that it will only take people 5 to 10 minutes to submit a proclamation request. Your involvement can make a huge difference.”
Anyone interested in helping can reach out to the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute (IFCI) or FibromyalgiaPodcast.com for guidance on how to submit a request for a proclamation in their state.
Empowering Fibromyalgia Patients
Tami’s mission about empowering fibromyalgia patients and advocates to take control of their health and fight for the recognition and research they deserve.
“This is not just about getting a piece of paper,” Tami emphasizes. “It’s about making sure that the world knows fibromyalgia is real, effective treatments exist, and feeling better is possible. Those of us who live with fibromyalgia deserve to be heard. The more people who know about fibromyalgia, the more likely we are to see improvements in provider education, research funding, and treatment options.”
As Fibromyalgia Awareness Month and Fibromyalgia Awareness Day approach, Tami’s efforts continue to gain momentum, fueling a movement that is driving real change for fibromyalgia patients across the nation.
To learn more about how you can help, or to stay updated on the progress of the campaign, visit FibromyalgiaPodcast.com or FibromyalgiaCoachingInstitute.com.
Disclaimers: The information provided is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For individuals experiencing symptoms of fibromyalgia or any other medical condition, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Results of advocacy efforts, including proclamations and public awareness, may vary depending on state and local regulations.
Published by Jeremy S.
