Successful ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Event
On Sunday 31 August as members of the public reached the top of the escalators at Dendy cinemas civic, they saw posters raising awareness for ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). On the right hand side eye catching bright blue helium balloons indicated the event area. This festive atmosphere was the basis for the ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Fundraising Cinema Event. Those attending enjoyed pre-screening drinks and tasty canapés before the screening of award winning documentary ‘I remember me’. Crowds were drawn to the table of raffle prizes and while buying a ticket learnt more about the illness. Thanks to PJ O’Reilley’s and King O’Malleys for donating the raffle prizes.
This event enabled the ACT ME/CFS Society, a small Canberra based charity, to provide information about the illness to the general public. “ME/CFS is a physical illness that can be very debilitating. By holding events like this we hope to generate awareness and understanding about ME/CFS” said the Society’s President Mary Campbell. This event also enabled the ACT ME/CFS Society to reach out and help new people living with ME/CFS.
What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)?
ME/CFS has many symptoms, made worse by physical and/or mental activity and recuperation after exertion is prolonged. It is a complex illness affecting multiple systems of the body and, in particular, the nervous, immune and endocrine systems.
The ACT ME/CFS Society offers telephone support and support groups for people with the condition. It also provides information about the illness to patients, medical practitioners and the public; and raises funds for research into treating debilitating illness. For more information or to make a tax deductible donation go to www.mecfscanberra.org.au
