Campaign For A Fair Name Website Launched

The new Campaign For A Fair Name website has recently launched! Last August, the campaign was started to give CFS a more “reputable” name, or a name that does the illness justice. There has been a lot of chatter around the web from people on both sides of this issue. Some CFS patients feel that the time that is being spent on changing the name of CFS should have been spent devoted to research and developments. Other patients feel as though this is an important issue because the name does not equal what we live with daily.

The Name Change Advisory Board was developed in January 2007 and decided on a new name: ME/CFS. They chose this name because:

• ME/CFS is medically and diagnostically correct, reflecting the science of this illness, giving it the credibility it deserves.
• ME/CFS will satisfy those who wish to use Myalgic Encephalopathy, and those who prefer Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.
• ME/CFS maintains “CFS,” avoiding problems with insurance or disability claims.

Beginning in May, you can start voting for whether you agree to the name change. Right now you can sign a petition for the name change.You can also volunteer to help spread the word about the name change if you wish.

What are your thoughts on the name change? Do you think the CFS community should be making a big deal about the name? Do you think it’s a waste of time? Personally, I am all for the name change. I think it’s important that people know how serious our illness is. Leave your thoughts in the comments, please!