My daughter was on track to become a professional dancer, when at 11 years old she started showing symptoms of having CFS/ME which our doctor had mentioned but never followed up on, he just pushed it to the side, while my child was getting worse, starting with sleeping three weeks at a time, and going from somebody who loves food to becoming intolerant to everything she was eating. Having to wear dark glasses because the light hurt her eyes and cower when she hears any noises, especially loud-sudden ones, to constantly feeling tired, but my daughter wasn’t diagnosed until she was 13, and that was because I had to get a second opinion as the GP was implying it’s all in her head and got some unwanted people to focus on it being mentally, but even with a second opinion, it as still proven very problematic, instead my daughter as suffered from being mistreatment and endured a lot of mental abuse to the point she doesn’t trust them anymore. Which is why I am doing this petition as I don’t want anyone else to suffer the way my daughter as, just because the health service won’t learn about this debilitating condition.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), is a complex, multi-system, neuro-immunological disease that profoundly limits the health and productivity of affected individuals. Each time my daughter seeks help, instead of receiving compassion, understanding and appropriate care, she encounters more obstacles, misunderstanding and psychiatric questions. Her experience sadly is not unique. 

It is estimated that up to 17-24 million worldwide have ME/CFS, yet it remains largely misunderstood within the medical community. These medical professionals often lack the education or knowledge to diagnose and manage this condition appropriately. This neglect does not only exacerbate the suffering of those inflicted with ME/CFS but also hinders early diagnosis which is crucial for managing the adverse effects of the condition.

This is why we urge for a change. We implore that it becomes mandatory for all medical professionals to receive proper education about all things to do with ME/CFS. This education needs to include not only the symptoms and diagnosis but also the daily challenges and struggles faced by individuals living with this condition. By doing so, we can ensure that patients, like my daughter, receive the care and understanding they deserve.

Only through awareness and education can we hope to adequately take care of those living with ME/CFS. Sign this petition and stand up for better medical treatment and comprehension. Your voice does matter, and together, we can make a change.