Purpose of the Fibromyalgia Buddy Program

The First Connection Program gives patients personal intervention, offering them both practical direction and a tangible sign of hope.  Peer volunteers make a one year commitment to the program and remain in contact with HOPE.

Peer volunteers are matched with newly diagnosed Fibromyalgia patients and/or their family members. This program is not designed to offer medical advice or to create an on-going relationship between peer volunteer and patient.  The Peer Volunteer makes a one-to two-time connection, or ongoing if mutually agreed, for the purpose of providing the patient with information, community resources, and support. As a person who has “walked in the participant’s shoes”, the Peer Volunteer will have a unique understanding of how the patient might be feeling.

Goals of the Fibromyalgia Buddy Program

• Carefully screen and train volunteers to connect with patients.
• Offer emotional support for Fibromyalgia patients and their families.
• Provide outlet for the expression of anxieties and concerns that patients and their families have about Fibromyalgia.
• Inform patients and their families about the resources available through HOPE.
• Continue volunteer education, support and recognition.

Fibromyalgia Buddy – Patient Request Form

Download a Buddy Program Patient request form.

Fibromyalgia Buddy – Volunteer Contact Form

Download a Buddy Program Volunteer form.