Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) also known as, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), affects 140,000 Australians. This poorly understood illness, not only by the general public but unfortunately by some within the medical community as well, places severe limitations on the daily lives of those affected by it. It is estimated that 25% of people affected by it are permanently bed or house-bound. Currently there is no known cause for ME/CFS and no cure.
May is International ME/CFS Awareness Month. The ACT ME/CFS Society is encouraging the ACT community to break the isolation of those affected by ME/CFS through an awareness campaign and fundraising for support and research. This year we are promoting the Canadian medical treatment guidelines (the Canadian consensus document) in the ACT. These guidelines provide a clinical case definition and guidelines for medical practitioners that are regarded as a benchmark for best practice treatment of the illness.
“Everyone knows, directly or indirectly, someone who has ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It is important that we, as their friends, family and community, reach out to these people and break the isolation and disability of their disease” said Ms Mary Campbell, President of the ACT ME/CFS Society.
People with ME/CFS have symptoms such as profound exhaustion, memory and concentration impairment, muscle pain, sleep disturbance headaches and other flu-like symptoms. In some cases the illness causes persistent disability while others it follows a relapse and remitting course.
“Many sufferers of ME/CFS not only face months of tests for diagnosis and a life of daily limitations but a world of stigma and misunderstanding.” Ms Campbell said.
Help us show support for those affected by ME/CFS. Donate by calling 6290 1984 or put someone you know in touch with the ACT ME/CFS Society.
ACT ME/CFS Society provides support, information and advocacy for people affected by the illness. It provides support services to its members such as self-help courses and support groups as well as access to a support worker and telephone information support service. The Society also provides information to patients, medical practitioners and the public; and promotes research.
For more information visit the website at www.mecfscanberra.org.au or email the centre at [email protected].
