Houston CFIDS Association

Mary~Margaret Lytle, B.F.A., “Help for People with CFIDS: The Oasis Concept,” began experiencing chronic fatigue syndrome from age of 22, yet like many of us was not officially diagnosed until years later. In the meanwhile, she earned an Interior Design degree from the University of Houston and entered the profession, serving both residential and business clients. She went on to receive additional training in Property Management and earned a Real Estate License in Washington State. CFIDS caused drastic alterations in both her interior design practice and work life. She gained invaluable “survival” training in a course taught by Seattle environmental physician, David Buscher, M.D.; received on-the-job training with Houston’s “Healthy Home” environmental architect, LaVerne Williams, A.I.A., L.E.E.D.; and received certification from the Texas State Structural Pesticide Control Board as an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Coordinator. Mary~Margaret also underwent disability advocacy training and became familiar with disability “speak” and has been an expert witness before the U.S. Access Board regarding the accommodations of people with chemical sensitivities. She’s been a guest panelist on Houston’s live Debra Duncan TV show and Seattle’s live Northwest Afternoon TV show. She’s been invited to speak before the Houston Commission on Disabilities and to participate as a panelist in a video designed for churches that minister to people with chemical sensitivities. From her own journey, Mary~Margaret will draw upon her background of specialized training, knowledge and skills.