Now You See ME Now You Don’t

 

People affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Fibromyalgia and post-viral conditions, including Long Covid, live with a variety of debilitating symptoms that can fluctuate in severity. Currently the only treatments available are focussed on management of these symptoms. These conditions can have a devastating impact on mental and physical health, and on every aspect of life, including family, work and finances.  

According to the ME Association, it is estimated that around 404,000 people are living with ME/CFS in the UK, and nearly a million people are living with the long term impact of a Covid infection. Diagnosis of ME/CFS usually takes several years, and many more people are waiting for a diagnosis.  

These photographs and artworks, by members of the Hertfordshire ME/CFS Support Group,  explore the impacts of chronic illness by looking what life was like before illness and after diagnosis the contrast of how their life changes. They also reflect on the importance of finding joy and comfort while facing challenging situations.

The Hertfordshire ME/CFS Support Group offer help for members in a number of ways; through information sharing, peer support and organising accessible social, creative and wellbeing activities across Hertfordshire.

We’d like to thank those who took part in this project and shared their personal experiences. As with many of our activities, there were members who have been unable to take part because of their current health. We hope that we have been able to represent them here.

Thanks to St Albans Museums, St Albans Cathedral and Hertfordshire Community Foundation, for their generous support.