LIFE DOESN'T END WITH FIBROMYALGIA
For 12 years, Melvin G. Fromm Jr., of Gap, trained in karate for 2!\q1-w hours daily.
He had planned to go to Hollywood to do karate stunt work.
But in 1987, he had a car accident, and afterward, he continued to experience severe pain and muscle spasms.
In 1999, Fromm was diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal aches; pain and stiffness; soft-tissue tenderness; general fatigue; and sleep disturbances. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, more than 10 million people suffer from the illness.
Fromm's Hollywood dreams were dashed.
But he believes that life doesn't end with the disease.
Even though he has abandoned karate, he has found other creative avenues.
He recently published his first book, "Your Life Is Not Over With Source Fibromyalgia" (Outskirts Press, 2008), and he has started writing country songs, many of which are featured on
www.cdbaby.com.
In the book, Fromm tells his story and offers facts about the disease. He also talks about how to live with fibromyalgia and provides helpful Web sites.
The book is on sale at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and target.com. Cost is $8.95.
Five percent of all proceeds from book sales will be donated to the National Fibromyalgia Association.
For more information, go to
www.fmaware.org.
THE BEAT
Teaming up
Park City Center has teamed with the American Red Cross to raise funds for people affected by recent tornadoes and floods in the Midwest.
Mall patrons can donate funds by logging on to
www.parkcitycenter.com or by calling the Red Cross, (800) HELP-NOW.
No funds will be accepted at the mall.
Money raised will help victims across seven states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Illinois.
Baby-sitters training
A baby-sitters training program for ages 11 to 14 will be offered 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday and Thursday, July 23 and 24, at the Cocalico Center for Health, 63 W. Church St., Stevens.
This American Red Cross course teaches safe play, basic care and first aid. A handbook is included.
Cost is $45. To register, call 336-6578.
(668)
