Fibromyalgia is a common and complex chronic pain disorder that affects people physically, mentally and socially. It is a syndrome rather than a disease. Unlike a disease, which is a medical condition with a specific cause or causes and recognizable signs and symptoms, a syndrome is a collection of signs, symptoms, and medical problems that tend to occur together but are not related to a specific, identifiable cause.

Locally, the Hazleton Fibromyalgia Support Group meets the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. (except for January and February) at Faith United Church of Christ, located off the Airport Beltway behind Independence Toyota in Hazleton. A lending library is available to members so that they can read the latest books published on the subject. The group was started by the late Jane Bartol.On May 5 the group will hold an Open House from 2-4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served, and literature will be available to participants. The group will also have fibromyalgia-related items available for purchase.On Saturday, May 15, the group will have a table at the Lupus Foundation's "Taming of the Wolf" Festival from 9:30-2 p.m. at St. John Bosco Church in Conyngham. Literature will also be available there.Whether you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, or have a family member or friend with the disorder, the support group is designed to provide you with a better understanding of this chronic pain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.For information or directions, call Carol Vilcko at (570) 788.6363 or Debbie Mainiero at (570) 454.2821.