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| The Cork Fibromyaliga Support Group have been doing a lot of work behind the scenes recently and are now delighted to announce their upcoming conference on FM: FIBROMYALGIA (FM) Conference: Saturday 19 May, 2pm, River Lee Hotel, Cork. Morning Talk (9am) - for the general public.
Afternoon Talk (2pm) - for GPs/Medical Personnel, e.g. physios.
CME Accreditation/Competence Assurance has been applied for.
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Morning Speaker (1) Dr Patrick Wood (US) is a world-renowned researcher on FM (see below); he will present findings using fMRI/PET scan imaging showing marked changes in the Central Nervous System (CNS) of people with FM. Well worth seeing by those with FM and their friends and family alike! |
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Cork Fibromyalgia Support Group
A group headed by Susan O’Mahony set up the Cork Fibromyalgia Support Group (CFSG) in 1999. At that time it was felt that a support group was vital, as there was nothing in place for those diagnosed with the condition. Very little information was available on how to live after diagnosis; many were left feeling isolated from friends and family by their symptoms. The need for information and public awareness was great.
The CFSC initially met in the Ennismore Retreat Centre (Montenotte) but transferred to 134 Evergreen Road (in Turners Cross) in 2001. The move was made possible by lobbying the then Minister for Health, Míchael Martin, who officially opened the premises in June of that year.
In December 2008, the group left evergreen road and held their first meeting in Bru Columbanus, Wilton (May 2009). The change in venue proved very successful and there were over 25 people present. Meetings will be held bi-annually for the forseeable future. Meetings allow a place for dialogue, support and advice. For many newly diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, this may be the first time they get to speak with people who understand what they are going through. The meetings provide a forum to discuss medical interventions/self-help techniques that may be tried and speakers will be brought in when possible. The meetings also allow access to local knowledge on doctors and services etc that is vital when someone is first diagnosed.
Please note: you do not have to have fibromyalgia to come to meetings; all are welcome, including those who may be in a supporting role, e.g. a partner or close friend.
Contact details: 085 1567924. Dates for upcoming meetings will be available through our website and in local newspapers.
Call for Volunteers – New Research Study.
Researcher: Catherine Norton - Who is speaking at our meeting at Bru Columbanus, Wilton on Wednesday the 18th of May, 2011 at 7.30pm.
PhD Student
UCD School of Psychology
Background to the study: As part of my research thesis into the impact of chronic pain, I am seeking to recruit individuals who have one of the following diagnoses – Raynaud’s, Scleroderma or Fibromyalgia.
This study is designed to investigate aspects of ‘Quality of Life’, functional status, emotional and cognitive function (attention, concentration, memory etc.) in individuals with chronic pain. It is widely acknowledged that some individuals suffering from ongoing pain report difficulties in some or all of these areas.
This study requires completing a questionnaire designed to access the specific areas mentioned above. I hope to clarify the nature and extents of the problems associated with these chronic pain conditions and identify the variables that mediate the pain. I hope that this research will benefit the patient’s quality of life going forward and at the very least increase knowledge and awareness of these conditions.
To participate in this study you just need to connect to the link below
If you have any queries, questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me at catherine.norton@ucdconnect.ie
Dr Wood is a respected authority on the cause and treatment of FM. He is a renowned speaker and has presented his work at scientific conferences around the world, as well as publishing a number of papers relating to FM in peer-reviewed scientific journals.