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ABLEnews Mailbag

                   What's Wrong With Me

I have chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS). I
suffer persistent exhaustion and recurrent respiratory
infections.

I find myself in a constant state of confusion. I cannot
concentrate, am forgetful, and experience hallucinations,
dizziness, headaches, chest pains, depression, and muscle and
joint pains.

It is difficult to live day to day, let alone to work. I have
been ill for four years, but two doctors and numerous tests could
not determine what is wrong with me. They ordered blood tests, a
lumbar puncture, CAT scans, MRIs, sonograms, and more. I was told
they were looking for multiple sclerosis, AIDS, Lyme disease,
arthritis, and heart disease. It was only when I read about CFIDS
in the newspaper that I realized that I wasn't crazy and asked
the doctor about it.

Aside from the one article, however, I have never seen CFIDS
mentioned in any newspaper, magazine, or television show. I'll
bet some of your readers have CFIDS and don't know it. There are
many doctors who know nothing about this illness. Recently, I was
refused benefits by the Social Security Administration because
they believe I can work. This is a common problem for people with
CFIDS.

Please tell your readers about this illness, which afflicts tens
of thousands of Americans. For more information, suggest they
send a long, self-addressed, stamped (52 cents) envelope to:

     CFIDS Association of America
     PO Box 220398
     Charleston, NC 28222-0398

or call toll-free 1-800-442-3437 and leave their names and
addresses.

Brooklyn, NY

Dear Brooklyn: Thanks for the research. Your letter is sure to
help thousands. Bless you.

[Becoming Aware of Newly Discovered Illness, Ann Landers,
Martinsburg Journal, 2/16/94]
 
...For further information, contact CURE, 812 Stephen Street,
Berkeley Springs, West Virginia 25411 (304-258-LIFE/258-5433).
