May is M.E. Awareness Month and the 12th May marks World M.E. Day.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, is a long-term (chronic), fluctuating, neurological disease that causes symptoms affecting many body systems, more commonly the nervous and immune systems. M.E. affects an estimated 250,000 people in the UK, and around 17 million people worldwide.
People with M.E. experience debilitating pain, fatigue and a range of other symptoms associated with post-exertional malaise, the body and brain’s inability to recover after expending even small amounts of energy. It can have a devastating impact on functional ability and quality of life.
Andrew adds, "There are currently no cures or treatments, and many can suffer for years, or decades, and the most severe cases can leave people housebound. Unfortunately, I am informed that the problem is getting worse with up to 50% of the 2 million long covid sufferers in the UK meeting the criteria for a M.E. diagnosis."
However, help and advice is available and you can get more information about M.E., and access support and advice by visiting www.actionforme.org.uk
Locally you can support Action for M.E. by recycling your used ink cartridges at Winterton and Burton Medical Practice. Thanks to match funding from the Winterton and District Lions each cartridge will generate a donation of up to £4 for the charity. For more information email: inkrecyclingforme@yahoo.com
Also, monuments in North Lincolnshire will be lit up blue to mark M.E. Awareness Month.
#MEAwarenessMonth #WorldMEDay #LearnFromME
