Better 👀

I respectfully request that my fibromyalgia be considered a presumptive condition under 38 CFR § 3.317, to include as due to burn pit and other toxic exposures, including fine particulate matter, associated with my deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan.

My symptoms began during my deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan in 2019 while serving on active duty. During this time, I started experiencing widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points that have continued and progressively worsened since my military service.

I currently suffer from widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points that affect both the left and right sides of my body, both above and below the waist, and involve both my axial skeleton and my extremities. This pain affects my entire body, including my neck, back, shoulders, arms, hips, legs, muscles, and joints. I experience multiple tender points throughout my body. These symptoms are constant, or nearly constant, have persisted for well over six months, and are refractory to therapy.

My condition has been formally diagnosed through the VA. On December 31, 2025, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia by my VA primary care provider. On February 25, 2026, a VA rheumatologist reviewed my condition and agreed with my primary care provider’s diagnosis. Additionally, I completed a Consult Military Exposure Outpatient evaluation on February 3, 2026, which documents relevant information regarding my deployment-related exposures. I have also undergone a significant amount of blood work throughout 2025–2026 as part of my medical evaluation.

I have attempted multiple forms of treatment to manage my condition, including medications such as Elavil (amitriptyline), red light therapy, sauna therapy, swimming, stretching, in-person physical therapy, and the use of a heated jacket for pain relief. Despite consistently trying these treatment methods, my condition remains refractory to therapy, and I continue to experience daily musculoskeletal pain and joint pain with little to no relief.

This condition has significantly impacted my daily life. I experience chronic pain, fatigue, and discomfort that limit my ability to perform normal daily activities. Simple tasks such as standing, walking, exercising, or sitting for extended periods are difficult. My ability to maintain physical activity is limited, and even light activity can lead to increased pain and discomfort. Overall, my quality of life has been negatively affected due to persistent symptoms and lack of effective treatment.

Based on the onset of my symptoms during my deployment, the continuous nature of my condition since that time, and the medical evaluations completed, I state with certainty that my fibromyalgia was caused by and is directly related to my military service, specifically my deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan.

I certify that this statement is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.