I've had fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue syndrome for 17 years.

It started with fatigue, frequent respiratory infections and back pain. Many tests were done, and mono, arthritis and other illnesses were ruled out. More than 3 years later, I was diagnosed with 'fibrositis'. At the time, we were told that the syndrome lasted between 5-7 years. A couple of years later, I was told it would last 7-10 years. 12 years later, I was told those figures were not based on following actual patients.

For the first 5 years, I was unable to hold a job, even part time. Between calling in sick and my physical limitations, it was just too frustrating for employers. After sinus surgery, changing my diet, learning coping strategies, and experimenting with dietary supplements and medications, I have returned to work.

Everything is difficult. With widespread pain, numbness and tingling, nausea, headaches, sinus pain, chronic cough and stuffy nose, mouth sores, swollen glands, dizziness, debilitating fatigue, trouble concentrating, memory problems, GI problems, food allergies and sensitivity to light, noise, chemicals, perfumes, and touch, I never feel great. Things most people take for granted are very difficult for me. Shopping, housework, using a computer, going for a walk, going out for the evening after a day at work, eating in restaurants, having company for dinner...

Sometimes the most frustrating aspects of the illness are the stigma and lack of understanding I'm faced with every day. We don't 'look' sick. The illness is not in our head, it is not due to mental illness, and it is not hypochondria. We don't want to feel this way. We aren't faking. We aren't lazy.

However, by concentrating on the positive, managing my life to limit triggers, sleeping, eating well, and a supportive family, I have a good life. I am aware that many people are in a much worse situation, and I know that I am blessed to live in this country. I can walk, I can see, I can hear, I have all my limbs, and I don't have to chop wood, haul water, wash my clothes in the river, or sleep on the ground. Life could be worse. But a cure would make it so much better!

We need to find a cause and a cure for these illnesses. We need doctors, nurses, hospitals, health care workers, and the general public to understand these illnesses. Thanks for your support.

Cheri