Lynne Matallana
Founder
National Fibromyalgia Association
“When I first felt the pain of fibromyalgia, I had no idea that it would be an impetus to reach out to help all those patients who had also struggled to understand why they felt the way they did, and how they could feel better. It gives me great satisfaction to see the tremendous strides the fibromyalgia community has made over these years, and fills me with hope to know the future holds so much promise for us all.”
Bill McCarberg, MD
Family Practice Physician
Kaiser Permanente
“Undertreated pain continues to be a pandemic in this country despite incredible advances in understanding and technology. Education of patients and the primary care provider is necessary to overcome this national tragedy.”
Andy Miller, MSHE, CHES
Executive Vice President of Mission
LIVESTRONG – Lance Armstrong Foundation
“Cancer survivors deserve to have their pain managed effectively so that they can focus on living life to the fullest. We must ensure people have access to care that promote the highest quality of life possible.”
Suzanne Mintz
President & Co-Founder
National Family Caregivers Association
“When someone is in pain it is very difficult for them to advocate for themselves. That’s why it is so important for family caregivers to develop the confidence and communication skills necessary to advocate for their loved ones. Family caregivers can’t control or cure their loved one’s pain but they can wield mighty swords to overcome lack of attention by those who can. Being a healthcare advocate is one of the most important jobs a family caregiver has.”
Dan Mjolsness
Pain Advocate
“People who live with chronic pain learn to focus on the gifts of living — even with and because of pain — and giving. Living experiences with a continuing renewal of appreciation and dedication to work with high productivity, family, friends, expression. Giving and supporting not only other people with pain but anyone who needs a kind word or an action. Why? Because to live with pain requires a knowledge that none of us stands alone, that we are all better off helping each other rather than retreating to loneliness.”
