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ME/CFS South Australia Inc supports the needs of sufferers of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and related illnesses. We do this by providing services and information to members.
Disclaimer
ME/CFS South Australia Inc aims to keep members informed of various research projects, diets, medications, therapies, news items, etc. All communication, both verbal and written, is merely to disseminate information and not to make recommendations or directives.
Unless otherwise stated, the views expressed on this Web site are not necessarily the official views of the Society or its Committee and are not simply an endorsement of products or services.
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Wallaroo Report
By Bill Daniels
March 16, 2001
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The Upper Yorke Peninsula Support Group meets quarterly in the Wallaroo Community Health Centre. The room available is spacious and well appointed. It is on the first floor, but served by a lift. There is plenty of car parking 20 metres from the building’s entrance.
I was invited to address the group in March. My wife and daughter came with me as my carers. We had a pleasant drive from Adelaide, stopping off in Kadina to window shop and have lunch. After the meeting we headed for the excellent down-town antique shop, then a drive around the new marina before heading for home.
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It was good to meet people with whom I had spoken on the phone: Jane, a co-coordinator from Bute; and Glenys, a “country contact” from Ardrossan. They, together with around a dozen sufferers and carers, made us feel most welcome.
We discussed: coping with the dreaded disease; accepting the syndrome; current developments in research; and I tried to debunk some myths about magical cures (particularly those available through multilevel marketing). We talked of ways of treating particular symptoms and ways to recognise one’s limits, and to maintain positive self-esteem. I mentioned the role of the Internet in breaking down the barriers – for communication with the Society, including the specialist services offered by SAYME; research on the Web; and communication through Ozme@tertius.net.au.
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I highlighted the importance of an active Society and the services it provides – Talking Point, Support Groups and the Telephone Information and Support Line, especially for people isolated by distance as well as the Syndrome. I was able to display some of the Society’s memorabilia which was readily acquired.
The group plans to hold a badge day in the local towns either during International Awareness Week or when the Badge Day is on in Adelaide, to raise community awareness as well as funds.
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There are issues of: correct and appropriate diagnosis; alternative therapies and treatments for specific symptoms; and advocacy which offer challenge for us all.
It was a rewarding but tiring day for us, and I thank the group for their warmth and eagerness to listen.
Bill
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Registered Charity 3104
Email:
sacfs@sacfs.asn.au
Mailing address:
PO Box 322,
Modbury North,
South Australia 5092
Phone:
1300 128 339
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday,
10am - 4pm
(phone)