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Dear Friends and Family, As most of you know, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia a few years ago. Last year I became aware of the National Fibromyalgia Assn (NFA), a nonprofit organization whose mission is: To develop and execute programs dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with Fibromyalgia by increasing the awareness of the public, media, government and medical communities. Much to my surprise, they asked me to sit as a member of the Board this year. It is a great privilege to be able to serve in such a great organization. I am tasked with assisting in raising awareness through many different means. My first event that I am coordinating, with the help of the NFA staff, is 'Racing for Fibro'. This event will be at the Super Chevy Show on April 30, 2005. I will be racing the Purple Reign '79 Camaro, along with 5 other drivers and cars on the Purple Reign Racing team. I would love to have your support by asking you to contribute any amount you feel comfortable in giving. Your donation is tax deductible and can be made out to me and sent to my address: Randy Wold 5806 Stratmore Ave. Cypress, CA 90630 Any amount you can contribute is very much appreciated. Love, Randy P.S. For those of you who don't know what Fibromyalgia is, below is some information about the syndrome: Fibromyalgia (FM) is an increasingly recognized chronic pain illness which is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches, pain and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue and sleep disturbances. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle and hands, but any body part can be involved. Fibromyalgia patients experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that wax and wane over time. It is estimated that approximately 3-6% of the U.S. population has FM. Although a higher percentage of women are affected, it does strike men (obviously), women and children of all ages and races. Because of its debilitating nature, Fibromyalgia has a serious impact on patients' family, friends, and employers, as well as society at large. Although widespread pain is the primary symptom, others may include: irritable bowel and bladder, headaches and migraines, restless legs syndrome (periodic limb movement disorder), impaired memory and concentration (we like to call it 'Fibro Fog'), skin sensitivities and rashes, dry eyes and mouth, anxiety, depression, ringing in the ears, dizziness, vision problems, raynaud's syndrome, neurological symptoms and impaired coordination. It is estimated that it takes an average of five years for a FM patient to get an accurate diagnosis. Many doctors are still not adequately informed or educated about FM. Laboratory tests often prove negative and many FM symptoms overlap with the symptoms of other conditions, thus leading to extensive investigative costs and frustration for both the doctor and patient. Another essential point that must be considered is that the presence of other diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, does not rule out a FM diagnosis. Fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis of exclusion and must be diagnosed by its own characteristic features.