
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities Awareness Day
WHEREAS over 568,000 men, women and children in Ontario live with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia or Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, commonly known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, is a neurological and autoimmune disease with no known cure. It is characterized by overwhelming fatigue and chronic symptoms that inhibit a person’s ability to work and perform routine everyday tasks.
For those living with Fibromyalgia, a disease characterized by severe pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons, the pain can become so severe that it prevents the individual from working or engaging in any physical activity.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, also referred to as Environmental Sensitivities or Intolerance, are initiated by an unusually severe sensitivity or allergy-like reaction in individuals when exposed to a number of different pollutants such as chemicals, perfumes and other environmental triggers.
On May 12, communities across Ontario will join the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Association of Ontario to raise public awareness, educate the medical profession, raise funds for necessary services and end the stigma and discrimination that accompanies these diseases.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim May 12, 2013 as “Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities Awareness Day“in the City of Toronto.