Celebrating Our 1st Year of Making a Difference!

Be sure to check out our anniversary video!

One year ago, Not Defined By FND was founded with a mission: to create change, end stigma, and empower those living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Since our incorporation in March 2024 and our recognition as a nonprofit in April, we have been on a relentless journey to raise awareness, advocate for research and treatments, and build a supportive community for FND warriors. 

As we celebrate our first anniversary, we look back with pride on all we’ve accomplished in just one year—and we look ahead with even greater determination to continue making a difference! 

A Year of Impact: What We’ve Achieved

🌟 Events that Brought Us Together 

Last year, we launched our Inaugural Event and hosted a spectacular Winter Extravaganza, bringing together individuals, families, and advocates to raise awareness and foster community. These events served as milestones in our journey, proving that FND warriors are not alone! Watch the videos on our YouTube Channel!

🤝 Partnering for Change 

We were thrilled to partner with Spark Good (Walmart), allowing people to “round up” their purchases to donate to our cause. Every cent raised contributes to our mission of advocacy, education, and support for those affected by FND.  Select "Not Defined by FND" to round up your purchases now!

🔍 Amplifying Awareness Through Research 

Understanding FND is key to ending the stigma, gaining effective treatments, and accessing needed resources. That’s why we launched several ongoing surveys to gather crucial data about the disorder, including: 

• FND Diagnosis, Treatments & Resources 

• Public Knowledge of FND 

• FND in the Medical Community 

• Education on FND in Secondary Institutions 

  
  

These surveys help us shed light on the challenges FND warriors face, advocate for necessary changes in healthcare and education, and ensure that our goals and initiatives remain aligned with the needs of the FND community. Learn more and participate in the surveys here.

✍️ Advocating for Change 

Words have power, and language matters. That’s why we started a petition to remove outdated names of FND, ensuring the medical community uses terminology that reflects the true nature of the disorder and helps eliminate stigma. Learn more and sign the petition here.

🔎 The FND Detective Series 

Through our FND Detective Series, we’ve published two investigative articles, written by volunteers, that challenge misconceptions and bring clarity to this complex condition. Our goal is to continue uncovering the truths that help FND warriors gain the recognition and care they deserve. Read the articles here. 

🆔 FND Medical Alert ID Cards 

Recognizing the need for safety and awareness, we made FND Medical Alert ID cards available, offering individuals a tool to communicate their condition effectively in medical or emergency situations. Get yours here.

💬 Strength in Community: Support Groups 

Living with FND can be isolating, but no one should face this journey alone. We launched virtual support groups where FND warriors can share experiences, gain support, and find hope through connection.  Learn more here.

🎥 Connect & Inspire: Building Community 

Our Connect & Inspire Series fosters connection through interactive activities like book discussions, movie nights, and games. These moments of joy and engagement help shift focus from limitations to possibilities, reminding us all of the power of shared experiences. Learn more here.

🌍 Expanding Accessibility: FND Brochures in Multiple Languages 

To further our mission of spreading awareness, we have made FND brochures available in English, Russian, Spanish, and Mandarin, with more languages to come. Ensuring accessibility for diverse communities is a crucial step in fostering understanding and support for those affected by FND.  Get yours here.

📚 Educating & Inspiring 

Education and awareness are at the heart of our mission. We share FND warrior stories, create educational videos, and provide informational materials to spread knowledge and inspire action. By elevating voices within the FND community and equipping people with accurate information, we are building a future of greater understanding and support. Meet our FND Warriors here.

Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright ✨ 

As we step into our second year, we are more determined than ever to build on the foundation we’ve created. Our mission to raise awareness, advocate for change, and support the FND community continues to grow. Here’s what to look forward to:

• Additional petitions and surveys to gather vital information, drive positive change, and ensure the voices of FND warriors are heard.

• A growing research and resource hub on our website, making it easier to access up-to-date, reliable information about FND, treatments, and available support.

• Expanding our advocacy efforts—locally, nationally, and globally—to push for better research, increased awareness, and the development of effective treatments.

• New programs and initiatives designed to bring the FND community together, foster connection, and provide critical resources for those affected.

• Strengthening partnerships with medical professionals, researchers, and advocacy groups to enhance education and ensure FND is recognized and properly addressed.

• Broadening accessibility by translating more educational materials into multiple languages, making vital information available to diverse communities worldwide.

While we’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished in our first year, this is just the beginning! We remain committed to pushing forward, advocating for better treatments, increasing awareness, and supporting the FND community every step of the way.

Thank you to every supporter, advocate, volunteer, and FND warrior who has been part of this journey. Together, we are making a difference, and together, we will continue to create change! 

🎉 Here’s to another year of impact, advocacy, and empowerment! 🎉