Progress for Patients in 2017: A Reflection

2017 has been a year of progress for ME/CFS patients. We’ve done more to inform government officials and citizens about the severity and reality of ME. Research funding is still insufficient and a cure still elusive, but I’m encouraged by the following events this year:

• The release of the award-winning documentary Unrest, featuring Jen Brea of #MEAction
• The updated ME treatment information (i.e., not graded exercise therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy) on the CDC’s site
• The accurate media coverage in the New York Times, Ms., Huffington Post, and other publications.

 
Merry Christmas, and may next year bring better health to everyone with a chronic illness or invisible disability!

Photo: Kent Landerholm, Flickr Creative Commons

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Darla Nagel is an editor and writing tutor who has an invisible chronic illness. She wants to help other patients and enlighten health care professionals about our experiences. If you’d like to be alerted whenever she writes a new post, sign up by e-mailing darla.nagel@gmail.com.