How do I start a petition to get the FEI to class fibromyalgia as a disability for para-equestrian?
I compete in dressage and am a fibromyalgia sufferer, making riding very difficult. However the FEI do not class FM as as “disabled enough” to compete in para-equestrian sport. The reason for this is beyond me, as FM is a terrible debilitating condition, that makes everything a painful effort. Why should riders with FM not be recognised?
How can I start an online petition to appeal this rule, and do I have to inform the FEI?
Tweegan.. no offense but are you sure its fibromyalgia if you can ride properly? I need help getting on my horse some days and sometimes carry 2 whips because I can’t use my legs enough. I often ride without stirrups because my legs cramp, and I wear a back support and occasionally knee supports. I have LOTS of problems riding, and have worked through them all. I just think people like me and others that do have problems due to FM should be recognised for working through them and be given the fair oppurtnity to compete in the paras.
I believe you’d be further ahead to begin with physicians who specialize in fibromyaigia to petition the FEI to reconsider their ruling on Fibromyalgia….IF fibromyalgia is regarded as a disability by the Americans with Disabilities Act then your battle is half won.
Contact the ADA and see what their opinion is on Fibromyalgia….do they regard it as a disability….share your story with them and see if you can begin to glean support from this group……All it takes are professionals coming your way with enough political punch to make the FEI reconsider their stand….particularly if you throw discrimination at them.
Edit: Equus…well I think you express yourself pretty darn well too!!! Thank you for the compliment!!
Erin Alberda Para Dressage
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