Houston CFIDS Association

A friend saw this on CNN:

LOMITA, Calif., Sept. 14 — Enterovirus, a common pathogen that can cause acute respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, may be a factor in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, according to researchers [at MedPage Today].

Action Points

• Explain to interested patients that this study suggested a link between a common viral infection and chronic fatigue syndrome but the finding requires confirmation.
• Explain to patients that no microbiologic cause of chronic fatigue syndrome has been established definitively.

Click here for the full article.

CFIDS/CFS/ME is an illness of misnomers. Even the name is undecided. When you state you have an illness called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome its immediately misunderstood.

Here’s an easy way to override the confusing nature of the illness:

“I have an illness called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Have you heard of it? Its like having the flu and waking up from anesthesia at the same time, 24/7/365. CFS is a debilitating, life-altering disease. If you would like to know more check out our association website at www.houstoncfids.org”

Until I see you all again remember “life may have its ups and downs with dreams on either side so take each day and live it well and just enjoy the ride”Jane Mostowitz, President

All of the following have different qualifications and operating days so be sure to call or go by the locations closest to you:

• End Hunger Network Houston
• Food Bank Network
• Texas Food Bank Network    

Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief to communities throughout the United States. Angel Food works through churches and community organizations in over 32 states.

For further information contact -  call the new Angel Food hotline at 1-877-FOOD-MINISTRY  or visit www.angelfoodministries.com.

A soon-to-be member of our group (moving to Houston from out of state) had this published in an animal magazine:

 angels_with_fur_8-2007_cats-dogs_magazine.pdf

It mentions CFIDS and is a great article.   Thanks, Kelle!

Our first meeting was amazing!

Over 25 PWCs, Caregivers (Spouses and Children from ages 10 - 60ish) and scheduled Speakers, MaryMargaret Lytle, Mike Petersmith and John Kern, were present.  The meeting lasted until 2:30 due to the fact that my presentation took too too long for which I apologize.  It amazed us that Central Market didn’t evict us. To all who attended, I am sorry my passion about CFIDS and our 5-year plan took hold. I promise to time my presentation for the next meeting.  Although we were all exhausted we were elated at the knowledge and new acquaintances (soon to be more) we all met.

We all gave our “Profiles” and none of us wanted to leave until all had spoken. The stories were all too similar of driven, passionate about life individuals and the life-altering nature of CFIDS/CFS/ME. We discussed an amazing array of symptomology, coping skills. and knowledge.

We now have a Secretary, Carol Edwards and Treasurer/Auditor, John Bagzis, both (Non-PWC). Our deepest thanks to both for stepping up to the plate. We still need a Vice-President. Officer positions will not be load intensive. Board meetings will be held via email (due to the nature of the illness) or for 15-30 minutes before a scheduled Houston CFIDS Association meeting.

If you are interested in leading (monitoring) a “chat” group on Yahoo or Meet-up, please contact Jane at houstoncfids@wt.net * (We have had numerous requests for people to talk via online chat or by phone especially at 2 a.m. when no one is available).

Our next meeting will have Dr. Salvato speaking with a Q & A afterwards.

Please note:

NO MEETING September (Labor Day) 2007,  November, 2007 or April, 2008 (due to room unavailablity). Check our website often for interesting information or questions.

Remember if you email the association with a question for posting with the group, we will consider it permission to give your email address for direct reply. This permission only applies to the group and will not be shared with other entities.  I was getting overwhelmed with emails and this was the best way to solve the issue but as always, feel free to email me any questions or comments.

Thank you to all the out-going officers and other supporters regarding re-forming the association.

Jane Mostowitz, President
Houston CFIDS Association