First Advisor

Dr. B. Lucas

Thesis Committee Member(s)

Dr. L. Narcisi & Dr. A. Schreier

Reader

Dr. J. Campisi

College

Regis College

Degree Name

BS

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Comments

Honors Thesis

Number of Pages

49 pages

Abstract

Around twenty-six percent of US adults have a disability. It can impair their physical and mental health forcing many to adjust their everyday life. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that is considered a disability. As someone who has been living with Fibromyalgia for three years, I have a first-hand account of how this condition affects one’s outlook on life. By speaking with professionals, we become aware of both the physical and mental effects of Fibromyalgia. A side of the medical world also begins to appear, one where those with invisible disabilities, like Fibromyalgia, lack access to proper care and providers. They face geographical and financial barriers as well as lack of understanding from doctors, friends, and family. This creates an environment that prevents proper healing and long term management of Fibromyalgia symptoms. I argue that by sharing my story able-bodied individuals can get a better understanding of the day-to-day life with chronic pain and how having providers focused on co-production aids in the process of healing. I then propose that by creating a health system focused on co-production we can provide the necessary resources to help those with Fibromyalgia manage their symptoms and even live a fulfilling life.

Date of Award

Spring 2023

Location (Creation)

Colorado (state); Denver (county); Denver (inhabited place)

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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