FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Pilipinong Migrante sa Barrie (PMB)*
Community Gathers for Philippine Heritage Month Book Launch on Fibromyalgia, Health Equity, and Community Care
Barrie, Ontario, June 14, 2026 — Approximately 20 community members gathered at the Barrie Public Library on June 13 for the launch of Still Yours: Reclaiming Hope, Strength, And Daily Peace While Living with Fibromyalgia and Other Chronic Illnesses, a moving and deeply personal book by Luisa M. Novella, exploring life with fibromyalgia and the realities of living with an invisible illness. The book is available from Amazon.com
The event organized by Pilipinong Migrante sa Barrie as part of Philippine Heritage Month, brought together community members, caregivers, healthcare workers, advocates, and supporters for an afternoon of reflection, storytelling, and dialogue.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition often characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, sleep difficulties, and other symptoms that are frequently invisible to others. Through her book, Luisa shares a powerful journey of navigating illness, finding hope, and seeking understanding in the face of isolation and misunderstanding.
More than a book launch, the gathering became a community conversation about chronic illness, caregiving, mental health, and the importance of accessible healthcare. Perla, one of the panelists, reflected on the challenges faced by those living with invisible illnesses and discussed the broader social conditions that shape health and well-being. She shared that “Filipinos are not hard workers, they are money hunger for they need to work hard for the bills and support for the family back home.”
Katrina, one of the panelists, added, “We need to look after each other in times of need because if you are away from home it is the migrants who will, whatever their status is.”
The attendees exchanged insights and reflections on the challenges faced by those living with invisible illnesses and discussed the broader social conditions that shape health and well-being.
The event also highlighted the significant contributions of Filipino caregivers, nurses, personal support workers, and healthcare professionals who provide care to Canadians every day, while also recognizing the health challenges and caregiving burdens many in the community experience themselves.
Participants emphasized that health is not only an individual concern but also a community responsibility. Discussions touched on the importance of protecting and strengthening Canada’s public healthcare system, ensuring access to healthcare services, and building communities where no one is left to suffer in silence.
The program featured a community kwentuhan, author presentation, open forum, and fellowship. Attendees shared personal reflections on illness, healing, caregiving, and the role of community support in difficult times.
Pilipinong Migrante sa Barrie extends its sincere appreciation to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the event a success.
Special thanks are extended to La Isla Manila for generously providing food that contributed to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the gathering.
As Philippine Heritage Month continues, the event served as a reminder that Filipino heritage is not only expressed through culture and celebration, but also through the values of compassion, solidarity, and care for one another. ###
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*Pilipinong Migrante sa Barrie (PMB) is a community organization dedicated to supporting Filipino migrants and their families through advocacy, education, mutual support, and community-building initiatives.
For more information:
Pilipinong Migrante sa Barrie (PMB)
Wilma K. Delo | Email address is wilmadelo@yahoo.ca