_________________________
^(Date)

The Honorable _________________________
^{(Name of Congressperson or Representative)}

_____________________________________
^{(Street Address)}

Washington, DC _______________________
^{(Zip code)}

Re: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome Research Funding

Dear ______________________________:
^{(Name of Congressperson or Representative)}

I am a resident of _____________________ County, ___________ (write in your state). I have chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS) and/or fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Every day I suffer from a variety of symptoms, which include:

• unrelenting fatigue, non-restorative sleep, insomnia, an inability to remain the deep stages of sleep where our bodies repair themselves and night sweats;
• severe muscle and joint pain that doesn't respond to traditional treatments,
• cognitive problems effecting short term memory, concentration, and our ability to think clearly;
• as well as a multitude of secondary health issues that often come with CFIDS/FMS including irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, depression, headaches/migraines, and environmental sensitivities to medicines, inhalants, odors and foods.

Chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome effects over 800,000 people nationwide. Fibromyalgia is the second most common rheumatic condition, after osteoarthritis.

Currently the cause of CFIDS and FMS is unknown and there is no cure; and the current treatments often don't work. Please support legislation that will increase attention to and the level of money spent on the study of CFIDS and FMS by our national public health agencies.

The Social Security Administration also needs to more readily recognize these illnesses and the level of disability that they often produce. The barriers to disability benefits that exist for persons with CFIDS and FMS are devastating; we need your help.

Please give this matter serious attention. Anything you do will be well appreciated.

Thank You,

_____________________________________
^{(Your signature)}

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