How do I start a petition to get the FEI to class fibromyalgia as a disability for para-equestrian?

Question

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?

Answer 1

Me and my mum both suffer from fibromyalgia, and that causes no problems riding. No where near bad enough for para-equestrian. I can see where they are coming from. It is painful, but it does not really restrict your ability at all.

The thing that stops me riding is having that as well as hypermobility and Ligmentous Laxity. These cause my shoulders to dislocate while i am riding, or even doing everyday tasks.

Answer 2

After reading the FEI website, it seems that they dont specifically say Fibromyalgia is not a large enough disability.  And what you need to do is find a "  I.P.E.C. or NDSA accredited physical therapist or medical doctor, with knowledge of the Profile system" to determine if you meet the qualifications for any of the 4 ranks they allow in dressage.

I'd write or call them for a listing of Doctors or pt's that can do this for you.

United States Olympic Committee

U.S. Paralympics Division

One Olympic Plaza

Colorado Springs, CO 80909

(Phone) 719-866-2030

(Fax) 719-866-2029

Saddly, people without disabilities will often "play sick" to ride in classes they are certain to excell over other competitors in, so the FEI may seem a bit reluctant with out the proper papers from your doctor relating to you specifically.

Answer 3

http://www.petitiononline.com/

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/

http://www.ipetitions.com/

some websites to create your own. good luck! ill be thinking about u!

Answer 4

I agree with getting health proffessionals etc. to help. If you do get one up and running, I'll sign it.

Answer 5

I dunno, but my sister and step mom suffer from fibromyalgia and it totally sucks!!  my heart goes out to you.

Answer 6

What a great question!! I also suffer from fibromyalgia, and AS an inflammatory arthritis dis. I also have alot of pain and discomfort while riding. I am currently on alot of med, including lyrica. Im not sure what us sufferers have to do to change rules and regs concerning our FM. Online petitions are invalid, so Im not sure what you could do. I feel it should be recognized as a disability, the reason im sure the FEI is not allowing you to ride under this category is it is not considered a legitimate disability by SS or the disability act. Good luck with your campaign.

Answer 7

Write to the British Equestrian Federation and ask for an assessment.  Get two doctors letters stating how bad your condition is and a specialists report.  Submit those also.

There is no harm in asking is there?

But dont expect a favourable outcome.

My daughter has a kinked spine and also does dressage making sitting trot almost impossible - but she soldiers on.

However, if you dont ask you dont get - so give it a try.

What have you got to lose?

Answer 8

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!!