M.E (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/pathy) otherwise known as C.F.S (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) is a condition of uncertain aetiology affecting hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. Whilst the predominant symptom is debilitating fatigue, most sufferers commonly endure painful muscles and joints, disordered sleep, gastric disturbances, poor memory and concentration.

In some the effects may be minimal but in a large number, lives are changed drastically: employment becomes impossible, they may be housebound or confined to bed for months or even years, as in Pamela's case.