25% M.E. Group

Charity Number: SC034265

If you or a loved one has

Severe M.E. -

(Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)

Join us

25% M.E. Group

4 Douglas Court, Beach Road,

 Troon, AYRSHIRE   KA10 6SQ

TEL:  01292 318611

FAX:  01292 318611

See our Website on:

www.25megroup.org

PATRON: THE COUNTESS OF MAR.

MEDICAL ADVISOR: DR B. DOWSETT MB.ChB.Dip.Bact

         SCIENTIFIC ADVISOR: DR VANCE SPENCE PhD

WHAT IS THE 25% M.E GROUP?

 The 25% M.E. Group is a unique nation-wide community based voluntary group. We have 2 members of staff paid for by the Community Fund and volunteers (most of whom are chronic ME sufferers). We provide a range of services to people affected by severe M.E. (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis), many of whom are virtually housebound and or bedbound.

Because of the various symptoms and disabilities experienced by many severe M.E. sufferer we seek to alleviate the isolation which having this illness can cause.  We encourage: communication between members; participation within the group at a number of levels; assist with content information for the newsletter etc - these are just some of the initiatives employed by the group.

WHAT IS MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

·      Severe M.E. is a debilitating illness.  Most severely affected sufferers are either housebound or bedbound.

·      To-date there is no known specific medical diagnostic test to determine or confirm a correct diagnosis nor is there any specific treatment for this condition. 

·      The varying symptoms and disabilities which many severe M.E. sufferers experience include: 

·      visual problems

·      vocal/muscular limitations,

·      general chronic weakness of limbs

·      cognitive problems such as memory loss and concentration difficulties

·      problems with balance and fine motor control

·      muscle pain

·      malaise

·      hypersensitivity

·      sleep and temperature disturbance

·      cardiovascular symptoms

·      digestive disturbances

·      neurological disturbance

As with any illness, the symptoms and or disability which result for having any of the above, will be experienced differently by  each individual.  We need to remember that no two people are alike in every sense of the word - we are all unique individuals.

There has been much research into this condition, using modern technical methods which indicates that it is a serious    neurological   illness.   

The condition therefore affects the central nervous system nervous system and the immune system, varying greatly in both severity and duration of the illness for the sufferer.

As the symptoms experienced by M.E. sufferers, are similar to other illnesses, such as; gastric disorders, M.S., fibromyalgia this can delay a formal diagnosis of M.E. being given to sufferers.

Doctors and researchers throughout the world continue to search for causal factors, a diagnostic test(s), and effective treatment(s).

The 25% M.E. Group do not offer specific medical advice to individuals on what treatment(s) may or may not be suitable to meet individual(s) needs.  We as a group accept and recognise that what works for some does not work for others.

We cannot stress enough how important it is that any information which we are able to help you with, should not be considered or taken to mean that we support any one treatment method, nor do we advocate that it be used or seen as a substitute for information and or guidance given to you by your GP or any other medical specialist.

The 25% M.E. group promote an equal opportunities policy.

·       Twice yearly Newsletter

·       Talking Book Service

·       Group Library

·       Practical and Emotional Support

·       Advocacy

·       Welfare Advice and Assistance

·       Telephone Support Helpline

·       Raising Funds to Promote & Support Medical Research Institutions into this Condition

·       Various Fund Raising Initiatives

·       Six special Interest Groups organised by members themselves

Would you like to help? Want more information. Please phone or complete the undernoted coupon:

What do Volunteers Do?  How Can They Help The Group?

As stated earlier, many of our volunteers are severely affected M.E. sufferers thus restricted in what activities they can undertake.  But it is amazing how many different members are actively involved within the Group in one way or another.

We need volunteers to:

·      set up local fund raising groups;

·      distribute our publicity and promotional material;

·      assist with fund raising events, gala days, fetes;

All volunteers will not be expected to work in isolation.  We will provide you with as much support, help and assistance we can. 

If you feel you would like to help, or if you  wish to join the group and become a member (a small annual membership fee is required) or a group supporter then please contact us.

If you would like further information please contact us by phone or complete and return the coupon on the opposite page.