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Cologne: Brave Cologne woman fights against ME/CFS – help urgently needed!
In the Cologne district of Ehrenfeld, those affected like Luisa are fighting against ME/CFS. A street festival to support will take place on July 6, 2025.
Cologne: Brave Cologne woman fights against ME/CFS – help urgently needed!
In Cologne, a young woman, Luisa (not her real name), in her early thirties, has been battling the devastating effects of ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) for four years. Despite her moderate impact compared to many others who are severely limited and sometimes require care, the disease has significantly impaired her quality of life. Before the illness struck her, Luisa was active, sporty and pursued clear professional goals, which she now had to give up. Loud Focus Luisa had her last day of school after intensive studies before her life changed drastically.
ME/CFS is increasingly being considered as a serious multisystem illness, often triggered by viral infections such as Covid. The symptoms range from massive physical weakness to high sensitivity to light, noises and smells, to rapid heartbeat and fluctuations in blood pressure. People suffering from ME/CFS also report flu-like symptoms and a significant reduction in their quality of life. It is estimated that around 700,000 people in Germany are affected, and the quality of life of ME/CFS patients is on average even lower than that of those with multiple sclerosis, stroke or lung cancer, according to a current study.
Post-exertional malaise as a central symptom
A particularly typical feature of ME/CFS is post-exertional malaise (PEM), which specifically means that physical and mental activities can lead to a worsening of the symptoms. Loud MECFS.de The severity of PEM varies greatly between those affected. Some experience their symptoms exacerbated by everyday activities such as going to the toilet, while others “crash” after extensive shopping or long walks. This deterioration can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even flu-like symptoms.
Loud Healthinformation.de The symptoms of ME/CFS are diverse and can include not only physical discomfort, but also serious sleep disorders and cognitive challenges. A complete cure is not yet in sight, but certain treatment approaches could help relieve symptoms, such as energy management, also known as pacing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hope and new initiatives
In June 2021, Luisa suffered a serious vaccine injury following her Covid vaccination, which led to the development of ME/CFS. Despite these challenges, there is a ray of hope: Luisa hopes for new therapies and increased political support for research and medical care for those affected by ME/CFS. She dreams of starting a family, being active in her job and participating in social life.
A special event is just around the corner: On July 6, 2025, the Rothehaus street festival will take place in Cologne-Ehrenfeld, which will collect donations for the #LiegendDemo Cologne initiative. This initiative was founded in July 2022 and is committed to raising awareness and education around ME/CFS.