In 1989, a small group of people with fibromyalgia, who had been meeting on a regular basis, formally organized and created the Fibromyalgia Association of British Columbia. They currently have a membership of over 800 people throughout the world. In 1995 they achieved non-profit status and became known as the British Columbia Fibromyalgia Society. In 1996, we also became a registered non-profit charitable organization, allowing us to issue tax receipts for charitable donations.The key concept by which the Society defines itself is empowerment, the belief that members must have the information resources necessary to maintain and/or regain control of their lives. Since its creation in 1991, the Society has earned respect at local, national and international levels for its information, education and self help services, encouragement of self help coping strategies and for its knowledge and experience on issues relevant to fibromyalgia.
Full membership in the Society is open to all persons with FM or those who have an interest in FM. Individuals and groups can become members and be included on the mailing list by registering and by paying the $20.00 (Canadian dollars), or donation, membership fee.
The Society provides an Information Handbook which is distributed free of charge to those who request. Also, there is an Information Handbook for Physicians, Specialists & Allied Health Care Professionals that they have developed due to an increased demand for information.
The Society also has a variety of educational materials available for purchase including booklets, videotapes, audio tapes, transcripts and information packages. These materials are very helpful in explaining the condition to the newly diagnosed, their families, friends and health and related professionals.
