My name is Esme. I'm 46, and have had CFS/FM since 1974, after a bout of Mono. I was diagnosed at age 32. After the mono, I never felt the same again. I carried on as usual, but just thought I was "delicate" -- that is, I was easily tired, needed a lot of sleep, and any time I overdid it, I paid for it by becoming ill. I developed a long-term problem with my sinuses and allergies, which I have problems with to this day. I was able to live fairly normally until I had my daughter at age 29. After that the fatigue became unbearable. I started hearing about the "yuppie flu" while I was pregnant, but it was not until my daughter was 2 that I learned more about CFS, and it answered all my questions about my health, including the chronic pain in my neck and shoulders. My GP actually agreed with my diagnosis!

I've struggled to earn my way monetarily as a member of our little family. I now work for myself, but could never support myself if I had to live alone.I would say my condition in my 40's has improved dramatically, except for the fact that I now have developed migraines, which aggravate my CFS. I've had to deal with an unbelieving husband, which has been very painful, and caused me much guilt and self-loathing. He has come to accept it, but is not exactly whole-hearted with his support.