Raising awareness of fibromyalgia

Model Bianca Embley launched the PolkaDotGals after developing Fibromyalgia following an accident whilst working as a flight attendant for Virgin Atlantic. Her aims is to raise awareness of Fibromyalgia, specifically in the press and media, but also by supporting awareness campaigns through Fibromyalgia charities. As part of this, relationships are being developed with both the business community and Fibromyalgia specialists.

The PolkaDotGals Calendar for 2009 has been shot by renowned London photographer, Luke Varley, and will be launched together with a fly-on-the-wall documentary. Model Danni Wells, championship 100m hurdler Sara McGreavy, America's Cup sailor, David Carr and Coventry City footballers have all been photographed with sufferers for the part-nude calendar. 'Polkadotgals' is also supported by leading Fibromyalgia specialists and Political support comes from Shadow Minister for Higher Education and Reading East MP, Rob Wilson. The calendar will be distributed in the UK, the USA and Europe.

We are constantly looking at ways of promoting Fibromyalgia. In November 2007 the Polkadotgals was invited to Parliament and took the opportunity to hold a press shoot outside the House of Parliament.

A statement from Director, Bianca Embley:

Up to 2 million people in the UK suffer with Fibromyalgia, but there could be up to 10 “I created the PolkaDotGals campaign in support of the chronic condition Fibromyalgia after many years of struggling with this devastating illness.

At 31, I was registered disabled, unable to return to work and requiring full-time care. After ten years of researching the condition and seeing specialists around the world, it became apparent to me that in order for Fibromyalgia to get the recognition it deserves there needed to be a strong brand for Fibromyalgia and a strong campaign within the press and media.

The condition can be caused by something as simple as a whiplash injury, there is no cure and due to its unbearable symptoms the suicide rate is at an all time high.”

Fibromyalgia awareness is in desperate need of sponsorship, endorsement and patrons, If you feel you can help in any of these areas, please contact PolkaDotGals Director, Bianca Embley.