Lynne Matallana:
Dr. Lisa's Interview

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, June 11 and October 15, 2005
Show 216

"It must be very frustrating to have people not believe you when you're in pain all the time," says Dr. Lisa. "Yes, when you don't look sick, you even start to question yourself and wonder if you're crazy. Your self esteem goes down. It took three years before I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia," says Lynne Matallana, founder of the National Fibromyalgia Association. "What did you do to restructure your life in order to deal with your constant pain?" asks Dr. Lisa. "I had to learn to move again. I did yoga and water therapy. I changed my diet and had to eliminate stress," says Lynne. "You look fine. Are you in pain right now?" asks Dr. Lisa. "I'm in pain all the time, but my quality of life has improved because I've learned how to function in spite of fibromyalgia," says Lynne. "What do you want to say to those living with chronic pain?" asks Dr. Lisa. "Never give up. With a positive attitude, life will get better."