Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Expert Profile

Expertise

I was diagnosed (finally) with CFIDS (Chronic Fatigue Immune Disfunction Syndrome) in 1993. I am currently in "remission" (for whatever that`s worth). I have experienced the full range of emotions that go along with this disease and will be glad to "listen" to anyone who needs to vent their fears, confusion, frustrations, anger...(it helps). I can share what worked for me and what others have shared that worked for them. I can steer you in directions of help (ie: Social Security Disability claims, natural remedies, support groups, etc.). You are not alone.

Experience in the area

Since my diagnosis, I have done a lot of research on the illness. I started the first support group in my area and organized "training" for physicians, nurses and care givers who believed in this disease and wanted to treat their patients that suffered . (It helped that I had been a Paramedic for 10 years before getting sick and had some medical knowledge.)

Organizations

National CFIDS Association, American Association of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics

Education/Credentials

Emergency Medical Technician II, Emergency Intensive Care Paramedic

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

A cure!!!

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

The controversy is the "stigma" attached to it. First of all, no one believes you. They hear "fatigue" and stop listening. Second, most doctors don't believe in it as a real disease or they just don't understand it. Third, most doctors don't know how to diagnose it. Fourth, it takes a battle to get Social Security to accept it as a disability.