Here, you can find any of the interviews on this site.
Bette started experiencing pain more than 20 years ago, and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia by a rheumatologist. Bette thinks she missed out on self-management support after her diagnosis and would benefit from a course to learn more coping strategies.
Bette is 63. She worked as a nurse before she had to retire early. Ethnicity: White Scottish.
Chris began noticing he had a lot of pain in his joints around 2000. In 2005 he was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Chris's advice to other people with fibromyalgia is that it should not define you as a person, but to keep your mobility as much as possible.
Chris is 58 and married. Ethnicity: White Scottish.
Lyn started experiencing pain around the age of 50 and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia by her GP. She would like to receive more advice from her doctors and thinks that she would benefit from a review around her treatment and support needs.
Lyn is 68 and married with an adult child. She works part-time as a street patrol crosser (lollipop lad) at the local school. Ethnicity: White British.
Melanie was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2012 after experiencing pain for several years. She has found ways to adapt to and manage everyday life better after going to a rehabilitation centre and seeing occupational therapists from her local council.
Melanie lives with her wife and young son. She is currently unable to work due to her disability. Ethnicity: White British
Mary started experiencing pain many years ago. A rheumatologist diagnosed her then with fibromyalgia. After trying various treatments with limited success, she is hopeful that a referral to a homeopathic clinic offers a more holistic and helpful approach.
Mary is 59 and retired. Ethnicity: White English
Liz started experiencing pain at 47 and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia nine months later. Over the years, Liz has engaged with different ways to cope better with her condition. At times she finds having to rely on support from others frustrating.
Liz is 66 and is widowed with four adult children. She used to run her own hospitality business before retiring. Ethnicity: White Scottish.
Julie started experiencing extreme pain at 31. Many years later, after several referrals she was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at 45/46. Although she takes various medications, she is very frustrated as she still experiences extreme pain after 17 years.
Julie is 48, single, and has long-standing disabilities. She teaches music part-time. Ethnicity: White English
Martin was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at 28/29. After some difficult years, he feels now better able to manage his symptoms. He regularly attends a pain support group. Martin is keen to raise awareness about fibromyalgia, including in men.
Martin is 46 and widowed. He is currently not in employment. Ethnicity: White Scottish.
Gender: Female Pronouns: She / Her
Gender: Female Pronouns: She / Her
