Now I know I’m not alone
Sandton – After reading the Sandton Chronicle article on Me CFS, a young woman was inspired to share her story. Here is what she had to say...
After reading It’s all about ME, published in the Sandton Chronicle on 6 May, a 23-year-old woman, who wished to remain anonymous, felt inspired to come forward with her story. The article was about chronic fatigue syndrome, which is often referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).
This young woman was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) at the age of 16 and for the first time, feels empowered to express her views and experiences of this debilitating disease in commemoration of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Day on 12 May.
The aim of the article was to create awareness and urge sufferers to come forward to tell their stories.
Retha Viviers, who is a member of the ME CFS Foundation South Africa, was thrilled when this woman reached out to her after reading the article. This young girl contacted Viviers through the ME CFS website, which has a specific option for individuals to send an e-mail to the organisation.
“After seeing the Sandton Chronicle article on the ME CFS Foundation South Africa, I realised that I am not alone. When I was diagnosed at the age of 16, I thought that I had been given a death sentence and the feeling of isolation was terrible for me,” explained the young lady.
She said she was an extremely vibrant high school student who excelled academically. “I had very big dreams for my future and I wanted to go to university and couldn’t wait to start living independently, but unfortunately after completing two years of my university degree, I had to stop.”
The syndrome affected her to such an extent that she couldn’t sleep, concentrate, or recall information.
“I was always mentally and physically exhausted and no amount of sleep made me feel better,” she explained.
Her isolation was amplified by the fact that after only one night out with friends, she would need a few days in bed to recover both physically and mentally. A normal activity for her friends was a debilitating, exhausting activity for her.
“I strongly urge everyone to become familiar with what ME CFS is so that we can break the negative stigma surrounding this debilitating disease. ME CFS is not an invisible disease and you are not alone,” concluded the young lady.
Contact: mecfssafoundation@gmail.com; www.mecfssa.org
