OUR RESPONSE TO COVID-19
In Aotearoa New Zealand, we are currently in a period of lockdown to keep our communities safe from the COVID-19 coronavirus. This has been mandated by the New Zealand government, so all in-person gatherings, including our support groups have been cancelled until the lockdown has been lifted, and until health officials advise that it is safe to meet in person again.
We know that this is a difficult time for everyone, especially those experiencing troubles with their Fibromyalgia. FMNZ is committed to supporting our community throughout this difficult time, and we will enhance our existing online services to do this.
1. VIDEOCONFERENCE SUPPORT GROUPS
We recognise that attending in person support groups is a highlight for many of our members, and is important to have a safe space to socialise and share the challenges of living with Fibromyalgia. In order to preserve this positive, relaxed, and social event, we are moving all sessions to online videoconferencing. If you have joined one of our Zoom sessions before, it will be very similar. Simply register on the Facebook event with your email address, and you will be sent a link to join the meeting, as well as some advice to help you get set up.
Find out more
here.
2. FACEBOOK SUPPORT
We will be enhancing our existing Facebook support groups, with more regular check-ins, group activities, and helpful information to get through the next four weeks of isolation. Our main group "Fibromyalgia NZ Support" will feature all of these activities, though we encourage members to also join local chapter groups so you can keep in touch with members in your area.
Join the Facebook group
here.
3. NEWSLETTER UPDATES
For those who don't use Facebook, we will provide more regular newsletter updates containing up to date information about COVID19, and tips, tricks, and suggestions for coping with Fibromyalgia at home during this increasingly stressful time. We will also keep you up to date with additional online support group sessions and other resources that you may find helpful.
Make sure you receive the latest newsletters by becoming an FMNZ member
here.