Memorial
To submit additional names, please contact us with, if possible, the name, dates of birth and death, place and cause of death, and any additional information you feel is appropriate.  Please see the copyright information below.

By compiling this list, we hope to make people more fully aware of the seriousness of CFIDS/ME. Medical communities, media and governments understand neither how debilitating this illness is nor how those with it suffer. The United States National Institutes of Heath are not keeping track of the morbidity and mortality rates, although many have died and many more will if more is not done. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claim there have not been deaths reported to them. If you know of a friend or family member who had CFIDS/ME and has passed on, please help us in our quest to document the seriousness of this illness.

We are grateful for the help of William Young, who began the list and who compiled a great number of names on this list.  Many of these people died of secondary illnesses attributed to CFIDS/ME. Medical doctors have pointed out that excruciating pain is the foremost reason that others have chosen to take their own lives.  The majority of these patients did not have the medical care they needed; they suffered unremitting pain with little hope of relief or comfort. We acknowledge their suffering and hope that they have not died in vain.



We remember the following in loving memory:

T. Faye Abramson died in October of 2004 at the age of 46 following complications from surgery.  Faye was trained as a tax attorney and worked until ME/CFIDS no longer allowed full time work.  She established and ran the Burlington County CFIDS Support Group in New Jersey and offered help and encouragement to many patients.  Faye was well organized and, although bedridden, was always ready to answer patient's questions and give them physician referrals.  She was "incredibly determined" according to one patient who felt Faye was a lifesaver. She supplied an information table at her support group meetings with many articles.  Faye was a long-term patient who left a husband, Howard, and two daughters, 10 and 4.

Pamela Schlangen Acher died in her sleep in the early hours of October 27, 2003. From Baltimore, Maryland, Pam, who had just turned 59, was a very long term patient who had been wasting for a while and found herself unable to digest. She had been having heart problems during the weeks prior to her death and had been tested for arrhythmias just the week before. Pam was a courageous patient who found the medical profession a challenge to convince of the severity of her illness including federal (NIH) physicians. Always one to try and reach out to others to help, Pam was a valued member of The National CFIDS Foundation since its inception and a founder of the CFIDS Network of Baltimore that had been active politically. She left her parents and a sister as well as countless friends.

Ruth Allen, from Lexington, MA, died on January 21, 1999 of complications related to CFIDS/ME. Ruth was a warm and intelligent person who had been sick since the early 1980's with CFIDS/ME and spent most of her years, when she reached her 80s, suffering from one complication following another and was in the hospital for testing a great deal of time. She became so severe that she finally had to be placed in a nursing home where, in the fall, she gave up all of her medications knowing she no longer had any quality of life. She died months later of an influenza type pneumonia that her body could no longer fight. Ruth left three children, Peggy, Sue and John as well as her husband.

Rhonda Amen: Female. Age and cause of death unknown. Long term patient.

Kathryn Blaine Anderson, died on September 10, 2004 at age 40 after just six years of suffering greatly from ME/CFIDS, a disease that, in many physician's minds, doesn't exist.   Kathryn's worst symptom of the illness was multiple chemical sensitivity which made the disease so much more challenging.  In the end, just swallowing  became impossible. Like most patients, Kathryn found that she was much more knowledgeable about her illness than most physicians and, of course,  many who had no answers told her that her suffering was all in her head.  She found one that understood her suffering, Jay A. Goldstein, M.D., who was her physician until he was forced to retire.  Kathryn, a resident of Los Angeles, CA, was a student and a computer design specialist who worked for the LA Weekly.  Identified as a gifted child, her quest for knowledge remained unquenchable. Kathryn leaves her parents, John and Ellen and a sister and brother-in-law who reside in England with their two young sons.  A member of The National CFIDS Foundation, she will be remembered by many in the ME/CFIDS community.

Marie Anderson: Taken from BRAME (Blue Ribbon Awareness for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis).

Paul Anderson, 42, died from an overdose of drugs in July of 2003 in Galphay, England. Paul was stricken with M.E. just days before his marriage in 1995, which put an end to his London-based business.  He was a brilliant translator who spoke ten languages.  His wife was his main caregiver while he suffered from constant and increasing pain.  A suicide note read, "I'm sorry.  I love you.  I can't take any more pain."  His wife was later charged with not trying to save his life by calling for medical help earlier while the misinformed and biased press often referred to his illness as "hypochondria." She was acquitted.

Anonymous: 48 year-old female. Date of death unknown. Had CFIDS/ME for years, diagnosed less than a year before death. Cause of death: aortic aneurysm. (Source: CFIDS/ME support group leader.)

Anonymous: 42 year-old female. Date of death unknown. Had CFIDS/ME for 7 years. Cause of death: ulceric gastritis, died in hospital. Occupation: Ph.D. in computer programming and systems analysis. (Source: Letter from CFIDS/ME support group leader.)

Anonymous: 32 year-old female. Date of death unknown. Cause of death: suicide due to unbearable pain. Occupation, mother of three small children. (Source: Letter from CFIDS/ME support group leader.)

Anonymous: 19 year-old female. Died 1986. Cause of death: severe, progressive ME. (Source: letter from family member.)

Anonymous: 45 year-old male. Died April 1997 from complications of CFIDS/ME. Occupation: photographer with many interests. (Source: Support group leader and friend of deceased.)

Anonymous: Female, age, date of death unknown. Cause of death: "had a sensory pain of burning, almost scalding...lost bowel and bladder function...overdosed trying to relieve pain..." (Source: Paul Cheney, M.D., Ph.D. during questions following a lecture, 1996.)

Anonymous: Age, sex, date of death unknown. Cause of death: "...so severe that she was in a nursing home at age 29 and died from an intercurrent infection." (Source: Paul Cheney, M.D., Ph.D. during questions following a lecture, 1996.)

Anonymous: Sex, date of death unknown. Cause of death: "infections with poor nutrition and poor self care...was hospitalized, (and died)...suspect cardiac arrythmyias..." (Source: Paul Cheney, M.D., Ph.D.: questions following lecture, 1996.)

Anonymous: Female in 40s. Cause: Suicide. (Source: phone call from her friend.)

Anonymous: Age unknown. Died October 28, 1999 from complications of CFIDS. This male patient contracted CFIDS from his daughter 3-4 years prior to his death. Both had high EBV titres. Death was attributed to malignant lymphoma caused by a herpes virus. (Source: daughter of deceased.)

Edyth Antelline, 79, died on March 7, 2004 after a series of strokes that had rendered her paralyzed for nearly a year as well as a cancerous tumor in her stomach. "Edyth was a wonderful person" with a rare sense of humor and a real fighter for the cause of CFIDS/ME while struggling with the disease for 19 years. A published poet, Edyth was very creative, a lover of the color pink, and got her strength from the ocean. No matter how much pain she endured, she always made you laugh, recalls a friend. Another recalled, "Edyth taught me how to deal with CFIDS gracefully. We need more people in the like her in the world." She had 3 children, 6 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren that will miss her along with so many people in the San Diego area. (Source: PWME/C friend)
Rebecca Badger: Female, age, cause of death unknown.

Charlene S. Arkway, 76, died January 15, 2006 in Rhode Island.  She was a support group leader for CFIDS/ME in the early 1990's in Newton, MA. Born in Illinois, Charlene was former social worker. She left a daughter and son, both of Massachusetts along with a grandson, two brothers and a sister.

Marilyn K. Asbury,  44, (January 27, 1952-December 26, 1996) Charlotte, NC. Marilyn became ill in 1983 and was diagnosed with CFS in 1986 by Paul Cheney,MD. She was a co-founder of CFIDS Association of Charlotte, which later became CFIDS Association of America. Marilyn served as both Secretary and Co-Editor of the first editions 1986-1992 of The CFIDS CHRONICLE. She served as an Executive Board Member from 1986-1992. As editor of the Chronicle, she edited, wrote articles, and personally folded and addressed each copy (by hand). With the support of a small volunteer committee of four or five members these were hand stamped, sorted by zip-code and then rushed to the downtown post office to be delivered to approximately 25,000 readers all over the United States. This duty alone consumed a minimum of two weeks work each month. Marilyn was committed to providing and educating CFS patients with as much information as possible. She believed knowledge dispelled fear and would further our own (patients) need for research. Marilyn took part in Paul Cheney's first Ampligen trial. Shortly afterwards, she developed breast cancer, which she courageously battled to the end. Marilyn was survived by her husband Louis Asbury III, and son, Louis Asbury IV. She also left behind many, many friends and fellow patients who loved her dearly. Marilyn lit the torch of knowledge, when CFS patients struggled and suffered in the dark. She led us into the light. (Source: family and friends)

Tracey Lee Ash, 26, died on March 7, 2002 in Australia from CFIDS/ME related causes.  Tracey battled with CFIDS/ME/FMS and multiple chemical sensitivities for many years.  Tracey constantly searched for new possibilities of getting well, but in the end wellness became a faded and unreachable distant light.  She left her parents, Glenn and Sandra Ash.  (Source: family)
 
Sherryl Atkinson died at the age of 50 in September of 2001 after many years of suffering from CFIDS/ME.  Sherryl was a well known activist for the disease and died of viral pneumonia, a complication of CFIDS/ME. (Source: Anne-Marie Vidal)

Barbara Baffa, 61, died on August 3, 2003 from CFIDS/ME related causes. An unidentified infection in her lungs hospitalized her in early July and spread to eventually shut down her major organs. Barbara, from Durham, Connecticut, was a cultural anthropologist who had CFIDS/ME for 25 years. She tried to find any options for her illness, researching the subject in depth. Said a phone friend, "Her penetrating insight and level of awareness always opened up new insights for me…" Barbara left her husband, Ronald Capozzi who has shared her medical diary with the National CFIDS Foundation and a brother, Chet. Barbara was born in Plandome Manor, NY. She was a graduate of Swarthmore and Yale Universities. She had taught Cultural Anthropology at Southern Connecticut University and had served as medical social worker, counseling terminally ill patents, at the Meriden-Wallingford Hospital.

Gloria Baker: 53 year-old female. Died Dec. 1994. Had CFIDS/ME for 10 years. Gloria had been one of the earliest Ampligen trial patients. She had, at the time of her death, lost control of all bodily functions. Cause of death: gunshot wound. Suicide has been questioned by friends.

Jean Bannks passed away in 2006 from ovarian cancer after many years of suffering with CFIDS/ME.  For many years, Jean had a support group in Rockford, IL.  When she was no longer physically able to run her support group, she continued to take calls from patients.  (Source: CFS,FM, & Chemical Sensitivity Coalition of Chicago)

Carli Barry, 27, took her own life on her 27th birthday on February 27th of 2001, after she found that friends let her down, the benefits agency made life hard, and the hurdles of having a disease so misunderstood left her depressed in addition to her devastating symptoms. Although her body was found just 300 metres from her flat in England, the police did not locate her for 9 days although their cars were barely 12 metres from her body. A full year later, her parents are still waiting for the inquest results. (Source: Sheila Barry)

Penny Barshied: died 1985. Cause of death attributed to a brain tumor. Although Penny was never diagnosed with CFIDS/ME, she became sick at the same time as her husband and was successfully treated with a herpes drug at the NIH that allowed her to live years longer. Her husband, a PWME/C was an advocate in the very early days of "CFIDS." Penny was a schoolteacher and the two teachers who taught with her in the same classroom also developed brain tumors at the same time. From the newest information we have learned about this illness, we feel comfortable adding Penny's name to our Memorial List. (Source: husband, Robert)

Lisa Beach lost her battle with ME between January 10 and 14 of 2001. Lisa lived in Homestead, Florida and was had fibromyalgia along with many other health problems including asthma and diabetes.. When one support group leader tried to contact her and received no answer from this homebound patient, she went to her home, only to contact police who found her in her bed where death had taken her. No autopsy was performed.

Fern Belvin, 58, died on September 4, 2002 in Virginia Beach. Fern had suffered from CFIDS/ME for 18 years. She is survived by her daughter, Adrienne, her husband, David Warren, one brother, as well as a grandson whom she adored. Before becoming sick, Fern was a registered nurse for 27 years. Helping her fellow suffers even after her death, memorial donations went to The National CFIDS Foundation earmarked for research.

Patricia Bennett, 52, died in February of 1999. Patricia had CFIDS/ME for more than ten years and died from cancer. She lived in Fountain Valley, California and
is survived by her husband, Gary and three grown children. (Source: Friend J.Rohde)

Anitta Bliss, not yet 40, January 18, 2000 "after a long and painful struggle against CFIDS/ME." Anitta was a resident of San Jose, California and a member of The National CFIDS Foundation, Inc.. She leaves her parents and a sister, Jean, and a fiancée, Justin Milliun. (Source: family friend)

Sandy Blythe was a paralympic champion for years who represented Australia from 1988 to 2000 and won a gold medal in Atlanta in 1998 where he was a co-captain of his wheelchair basketball team.  Sandy's retirement was forced upon him after the Sydney Games when he was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome.  He took his own life in late November of 2005 asking that donations be made to an Australian CFS group.  He leaves a partner, Paula Coghlan, and his family.

Elise Bomford died in mid January from CFIDS/ME related lymphoma. Elsie belonged to the ME Victoria Association in Canada. She affected many with "her quiet strength and generous warmth." She was 74. (Source: Margaret Sherwood)

Margie Boon: 52 year-old female. Died Mar. 27, 1996. Long-term patient. Cause of death: Sub-dermal hematoma. Founder of Sierra Vista CFIDS Support Group. (Source: letter from friend.)

Eric W. Booth, M.D. 48 year-old male. Died June 18, 1995. Had CFIDS/ME for 16 years. Cause of death: cardiac dysrhythmia, cryptogenic myocardial fibrosis. Occupation: Radiologist. Despite illness, campaigned for research and better treatments. Wrote in 1991, "I have been very seriously ill for the last five years... Despite my feeling this way, I am unable to convey this to my medical colleagues...I have come to believe that physicians suffer from "compassion fatigue." (Source: BMJ, Vol. 311, 28 Oct 1995 and Death Certificate.)

Lujuan Boreermeyer, 50, died of complications of CFIDS/ME (cancer) on December 25, 2003 in Texas. She left a daughter, Tina, mother, sister and brother along with a partner in life, Sue Turicchi. Lujuan left a lasting impression on all that she met and is missed by many.
Donna Brewer: Female: Age and date of death unknown. Cause of death: heart failure. Western North Carolina CFIDS Support and Advocacy Group Leader. (Source: letter from support group.)

Marion A. Boutcher died on April 23, 2006 at the age of 73, after a long and difficult battle with CFIDS/ME.  Marion was in the first trial of Ampligen from 1988 to 1993.  Shortly after she went off Ampligen, she was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer.  Hemispherx BioPharma consistently ignored her calls even though she lived near their home office in Philadelphia. Her original tumor was never identified although it was an estrogen receptor type.  It slowly metastasized throughout her body. She broke a hip in February which furthered her decline until she died in at Abington Memorial Hospital.  Marion kept in touch with many of those she met while on the Ampligen trial and was a brave and compassionate person.  She left a devoted husband, B. Frank as well as a son, Harry R. and a daughter, Debbie who join many who will miss her enriching their lives. (Source: friend and fellow Ampligen patient)

JoAnn Boyle, 53, died on October 3, 2005.  She had a long-standing CFS diagnosis with complications of ovarian cancer, polymyositis, legionaire's disease and, finally, brain cancer.  JoAnn volunteered for the Wisconsin CFS Association as a group leader, then a contact person and then as a moderator for their Chat room.  Many will remember JoAnn's help and her willingness to share her knowledge with others.

Jason L. Brekenridge, 23, died on December 16, 2005 in Baldwinsville, NY.  An autopsy found he died of a seizure.  Jason was disabled with CFIDS/ME shortly after receiving two associate degrees in technology and business management from Bryant & Stratton College.  He had to move in with his parents and spent a great deal of time researching the disease and posting his hypotheses online along with trying experimental therapies in his determination to improve.  He was looking forward to participating in a research endeavor and his physician has named this New York RNA study after him in his honor.  A member of the National CFIDS Foundation, Jason leaves his parents and grandparents and his friend since childhood, David Lum.   (Source: friends and Syracuse Post Standard)

Donna Brewer died after suffering many years with CFIDS/ME.  Although her date if death was not reported to us, Donna died from heart failure.  She was a support group leader in North Carolina. (Source: Anne-Marie Vidal)

Kathleen Briglio: Female: age unknown. Died July 1996. Cause of death: Brain tumor. Active member and former president of the ME Victoria Association.

Chris Brown got CFIDS/ME when she was 31 and died after many years of the illness in December of 1999. She was taken to the hospital and, it was reported, "simply stopped breathing." Her physician believes it was her heart. After many years of battling pain, Chris leaves her daughter, Michelle, also an CFIDS/ME patient, and her husband. Chris lived in New Zealand. (Source: Australia's Country Network.)

Judy Brown: Female, age unknown. Died 24 Aug. 1996. Long term CFIDS/ME patient. Cause of death: self induced drug overdose. (Source: The Fitness Report, September, 1996.)

Martin John Buckley died October 11, 2002 at age 71. A former schoolteacher, Martin, upon retirement, published several military history books. He belonged to the Northern Rivers CFIDS/ME/FM Support Organization in New South Wales, Australia and tried to help others as much as possible despite living with ME.  Martin's muscle weakness grew so profound that, toward the end, he could not keep his eyes open and had trouble eating and speaking. He had trouble
holding his head up until the weakness affected the heart and he stopped breathing. He leaves his wife, Joan, and his family. (Source: Merle Fullerton, NR CFIDS/ME/FM)

Chris Butler died in 1999 after struggling with CFIDS/ME for years and the death was reported in the Country Network newsletter of Australia.

Joanna Butler died in England in 1988 at age 24 of CFIDS/ME.  The last two years of her life were spent bed-bound and required tube-feeding by her devoted parents. Joanna was from Leaminton Spa in Warwickshire.  A police investigation followed that cleared her parents of any wrongdoing but they were finally forced to move after being continually hounded.  Newspapers in the UK carried the story of Joanna's tragic life.  (Source: ME Action, U.K., Eileen Marshall and Margaret Williams)

Brenda Calabrese, a long-term CFIDS/ME patient died of breast cancer late in 1999. Brenda was a resident of Massachusetts who found her physical deterioration forced her to move in with her mother for help. Brenda will be missed by her family and fellow patients. (Source: PWCFIDS/ME friend.)

Mary Louise Cardillo: Female in early 40s. Died July 1995. Cause of death: autopsy revealed nothing. Died in hospital. When her physician, Anthony Komaroff, M.D., requested samples and sent them to another laboratory, high levels of HHV6 were found. A warm and brave person who so wanted to enjoy life. (Source: letter and test results from surviving parents, friends.)

Rebecca Bramlett Carter, 47, died December 26, 2005, at St. Mary's Hospital.  "Becky" was a CFIDS support group leader from Watkinsville, GA, a member of her church choir and involved with Le Leche League and the symphony orchestra.  A caring and compassionate long term patient, Becky was admired and loved by many in the CFIDS community.  She left her husband, Stan, and three children,  daughters Shelley Elizabeth and Anna Carol and son, Colton Harrison, as well as her parents, Dr. Gene Bramlett and Carol Hilton Bramlett.  Taken from us far too early in life, Becky will be missed by many.  Donations in her memory were made to further CFIDS research.

Ruth D. Carter, 66, of Belmont, MA died on December 20, 2003. Ruth died by her own hand after a new physician told her to find another physician to prescribe her medications. After 15 years of struggling with ME and housebound for more than the last four, Ruth decided that she had had enough. Ruth graduated from the University of Chicago, was invited to participate in the U.S. Olympics for her horsemanship, and was an avid skier. Extremely intelligent and vocal, Ruth made her views known to government employees and embassy personnel. Ruth is missed by a caring and supportive husband, Weld, her son and daughter-in-law from Manila, David and Cris Rosenthal, and two grandsons along with a number of friends.

Carol Graham Chudley. Died May, 1998 of a freak accident after years of suffering from CFIDS/ME. Carol was born in Illinois but became a Canadian citizen in 1967. A gifted potter, gardener, and author, one can read of her suffering in Between Gardens, published in 1999 by Polestar Book Publishers of Canada.

Kathie Claar: 52 year-old female: Died Aug. 24 1996. Long term CFIDS/ME patient. Cause of death: self-induced drug overdose. Oak Harbor, WA, USA. (Source: letter from friend.)

Bess Clark died in 1999 after a long struggle with cancer. A support group leader and a warm and compassionate person, Bess taught her group how to have fun while barely functioning. (Source: Dolores Hudson)

Ruth Clark, 69, a Wisconsin CFIDS Association support contact, died on March 12, 2003 of liver failure. Ruth was a long time CFIDS/ME patient
who sought alternative and traditional care for treatment of severely disabling symptoms. Alternative practitioners blamed traditional medicine
for her liver failure and traditional practitioners blamed alternative. Ruth, herself, was too sick to care. Nothing helped her pain, stomach and intestinal problems. Ruth was often unable to eat. She was a real life teeny tiny woman but one with a big heart and the drive to help others with CFIDS/ME as best she could. Ruth leaves her husband and other family members. (Source: Pat Fero, Wisconsin CFS)

Theodore Cocaine, 36. Died Dec. 1998. Cause of death: massive coronary.

Carol Sue Coffee died August 7 in a hospital at the age of 57 "fighting bravely to the very end." Carol enjoyed golf, reading and computer work and had special
friends and relatives who miss her. She tried everything possible to "heal" from her lengthy disease, and she appreciated each day. She is survived by her husband,
Jim, of Jenison, Michigan and many relatives and friends. (Source: Support group leader and friend)

Diane M. Comeau, 49, died in mid-August of 2001. She had just turned 49 in May. Diane was in ICU for 10 days with an abscess in her groin and her body became sepsis. Tests and scans showed nothing. Diane had suffered for most of her life with CFIDS/ME and FMS. She was a Captain in the Civil Air Patrol where she was valued for her dedication. "She gave 100% to cadets," said a relative. A memorial service in Arizona honored her with a fly-by. A close friend remarked that she never let her pain hold her back. Her mother, Barbara Murray, also suffers from this disease. In addition to her parents, Diane left 4 brothers, David, Gary, Stephen, and Richard. Continuing to help others even after death, donations have been requested to go toward research via The National CFIDS Foundation, Inc.

Greg Cooper died at age 40 of causes unrelated to his CFIDS/ME in March of 2000. Greg leaves a daughter and many members of his support group in California who miss him. He was on an experimental trial of Ampligen but found it was not a help and had adverse effects.

Cynthia Coultier: Female, age unknown. Died 1998 from complications of CFIDS/ME. Tested highly positive to Chlamydia pneumonia but her physician refused suggested treatment for this. Left two sons and grandchildren. Although Cynthia had owned her own business, she was not eligible for any disability. (Source: Support group leader of National CFIDS Foundation.)

Sophia Criona, 32, died in 2005 of medical abuse and neglect.  An avid sportsman, Sophia was 26 when she got a "flu" that did not remit.  Within 3 months, she became bedridden and her light and touch sensitivity was extreme.  Her GP suspected both Sophia and her mother were feigning illness and forcibly removed Sophia to a mental clinic where she was in lockdown.  Although later released, the damage was significant and she died in agony.  Although an autopsy showed nothing, samples given to ME researchers have already shown "unequivocal inflammatory changes" and they have not yet finished. Sophia's last words, when her mother told her that she would go public with her story, were, "Then it will all have been worth it..." Her mother, Mrs. Criona, remains devastated and told her story to Meridan Television in the UK.

Andrea Cunnigham died at aged 46. She had myalgic encephalomyelitis since 1988 and was diagnosed with cancer in early 1997. She died just a few weeks after
this last diagnosis. From Wales, UK, Andrea was in touch with sufferers from all over the UK sharing information and support before the internet became popular.
Her passing was a huge shock to many of her friends. (Source: Laura Jones)

Nancy Cunningham, a member of the Seacoast NCF Chapter Support Group, died on April 16, 2004, at a hospital in Dover, New Hampshire at age 65.  Before getting ME/CFIDS, Nancy had been employed for 30 years at Eastern Air Devices.  A native of  Maine, Nancy is missed by her husband of 46 years, Percy, two daughters, two granddaughters and a brother as well as her beloved cat and dog.

Judith Curren: 42 year-old female. Died Aug. 1996. Cause of death: Suicide with assistance of Dr. Jack Kevorkian. Occupation: Registered nurse. Left husband, 2 small children. Was totally bedridden, paralyzed on one side. Had a wonderful sense of humor. Husband stopped her first attempt to meet with Dr. Kevorkian but she insisted she did not want to die in a nursing home. Her husband, a physician, had to move out of state following the publicity following her death. They were Massachusetts residents. (Source: personal friend, newspaper articles.)

Stephen S. Czerkas, a long-term patient, took his own life on January 10,1999 to escape the poverty, pain, and legal hassles brought on by this illness. Donald Scott, founder of Common Cause, said Steve's wife had left him as do many partners of patients.

Skye Dailor: 14 year-old female. Died Sept. 1, 1990. Cause of death: heart attack caused by lethal dose of pills following taunts by classmates. Her physician, David S. Bell, M.D., FAAP, dedicated his first book in her memory.

Mike Delano: 47 year-old male. Died Mar 14, 1997. Cause of death: Kidney failure. Occupation: Football and basketball star. (Source: CFIDS/ME support group leader.)

Frances (Gina) Regina DeLoach died at home on March 13, 2007 after many years of suffering with CFIDS/ME/FMS.  Gina was a warm and loving person who went out of her way to try to help others.  She worked as a phlebotomist in a laboratory in Tuscaloosa, AL and was would always go out of her way to assist others when possible.  Her parents and sister preceded her in her death but her death was noted by many friends who continue to miss her.  Gina was in her 60's when she died. (Source: Elaine Katz)

Jane Dennison, a long-term sufferer of CFIDS/ME, died in 2003 of an overdose. Jane was a resident of Illinois. (Source: Carol Howard, Pres., Chicago CFS Assoc.)

Lyn Drysdale: female: Died 1995. (Source: BRAME.)

Lorna Duncan: Died May 99. Had CFIDS/ME and developed Cancer. She was on The Board of Directors for the ME Victoria Association.

Elizabeth Egerton, 42 years old, died suddenly on Feb. 7, 2000, while under anesthesia for a minor operation. Elizabeth had CFIDS/ME for 10 years and is sadly missed by both family and friends. She was a quiet and caring person. (Source: Alison Kennedy.)

Ceri Evans died by his own hand in August of 2002 at age 36.  Ceri, from Wales, was a socialism activist who participated in many struggles.   In 1998, he was diagnosed with an occupational injury followed by a diagnosis of "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome."  A combination of anti-depressants were prescribed for his "mental illness."   (Source: online memorial)

Linda Farrin died in 2001 after two decades of having CFIDS/ME. Linda lost much after contracting CFIDS/ME, but continued to fight and began a support group in
Massachusetts to try and help others. The cause of death was listed as Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.

Casey Ryan Fero died on July 4, 2005 in his sleep at age 23.  An autopsy showed he died of myocarditis, a viral infection of the heart muscle.  Casey had CFIDS/ME since the age of nine.  He had recently gotten his Associate Degree and was planning on further education as he worked as a shift manager.  Casey was the son of Pat and Bruce Fero of Sun Prairie, WI.  A kind and gentle person, he also leaves a sister, Mykol Susan, his grandparents, aunts and uncles and many cousins.  (Source: Casey's mother)

Joseph Fiducia, M.D.: male, age unknown. Died 1980s by own hand. Gynecologist who began seeing CFIDS/ME patients following his own illness. Voluntary support group leader and advocate.

Angela Flack died in January of 2007 from an inoperable brain tumor that was discovered just six months prior to her death.  "Angie" was a trustee of The ME Association in England and passionate about ME recognition and the injustices that resulted in poor information about the disease.  She was a long-term sufferer of ME who coped with the challenge of living by herself with the illness by trying to make a difference in the world of CFIDS/ME. (Source: The ME Association)

Kevin Foley: was in his early 40s and living in Tennessee with CFIDS/ME. He had improved enough to work part-time but did not know alcohol would interfere with his medications. The death of this long-term patient was an unintended consequence.

John Gakingsway: died early in 2000 from complications of CFIDS. John was the founder of a "CFS/Fibro Support Group" on the internet for patients in the state of Georgia. His group, "Peaches," is still going strong today. He was forced to move back to Michigan when his condition deteriorated and spent his last Christmas with his granddaughters. (Source: Wife and fellow PWME/C, Karen)

Kim Gallagher died at the age of 38 from stomach cancer on November 18 of 2001. Kim was a two-time Olympic medalist who began her medalist career in Pennsylvania while in high school. One record in a 1,500 meter race still stands today. She moved to southern California after a year in college to train in Santa Monica and won both a silver and bronze in the Olympic 800 meter race. She suffered from CFIDS/ME and said, "I felt like I was being stabbed in the stomach," after one of her races. She was previously operated on for polycystic ovaries.

Ray Gardner: Male, age unknown. Died 1993. Died from complications of CFIDS/ME. Loving father, husband. (Source: support group leader in Massachusetts.)

Nancy Gavel died on Easter Sunday, 2004 after a long struggle with ME/CFIDS.  Nancy was born in Geneva, Ohio in 1941 and died of cancer after just one radiation treatment.  Her experiences with physicians who dismissed her complaints made her avoid them as much as possible and she was taken to a hospital by ambulance only when her pain became unbearable. She resided in California.  Nancy left a husband of 37 years, Roger, and a daughter, Kate, along with three grandchildren.

Helen Jean Gawthrop, 52, died September 19, 2007 at home in Athens, Ohio from complications after a multi-year struggle with CFIDS/ME. A cum laude graduate of Marietta College, Helen worked until 1999 for the Ohio University Press. A well-read history buff, Helen loved the outdoors along with thoroughbred horses. Her battle with CFIDS/ME led her to investigate many alternative protocols as well as seeing one of the nation's leading specialists. Helen kept in touch with many other patients via e-mail and telephone and her fellow patients found her to be witty and brave. Her father, Paul, preceded her in death. Helen left her brother, James, and his wife along with her mother, Nancy and many friends and extended family members who miss her dearly. (Source: family member)

Christine Geifing died in 1996 after a long struggle with CFIDS/ME. (Source: BRAME)

Barbara Ramos Gibson, 63, died on May 1, 2006 from complications of CFIDS/ME and fibromyalgia.  She was active in Florida trying to make a difference in the way the disease was viewed as well as reaching out to others.  She had become so severe that she was unable to walk and she was due to enter a nursing home when her life ended.  Barbara leaves her daughters, Joan Gunther and Karen Mullins, three stepsons and grandchildren along with many patients who will remember her efforts to help and her kindness. (Source: family member)

Myra Gray Goodman: female, died Feb. 4, 1995. Was a feature writer for Boston Herald, support group leader in Vermont. Died of heart complications due to CFIDS/ME. (Source: husband, Lee Dana Goodman.)

Barbara Gove: female in early 40s. Died 1994 at Framingham, MA hospital. Cause of death: atypical pneumonia usually seen in AIDS. (Source: Support group leader.)

Candy Graham, a long-term patient of CFIDS/ME, died of complications of the disease in 2003. Candy was from Fairfield, CA. (Source: Carol Howard, Support Group Leader)

Lorene Sutton Gray died early in January, 2005 at a Oconee Memorial Hospital in Georgia.  The autopsy report reported four main reasons for death including "CFS" which may be a first in this country.  Lorene became ill in 1983 but worsened after breast implants and removal.  After many misdiagnoses, she was finally diagnosed with ME/CFIDS/FM.  Lorene was an ardent advocate for those  women with breast implants.  A native of Tennessee, she is survived by her husband, John, who remained a devoted caregiver as she worsened, her mother, a daughter, Lisa Morris, two brothers and a sister as well as a grandson.  Her son, Randy, preceded her own death. Her husband, John, donated samples following her death to researchers funded by the National CFIDS Foundation to help further research.  A  long and thorough autopsy found her death was from shock, acute renal failure, a breakdown of muscle fibers known as rhabdomyloysis, and "chronic fatigue syndrome/fibromyalgia" as well as finding major damage to many organs and a lymphatic completely unable to operate.  Her husband's willingness to share the information after Lorene's death will bring answers to this illness that were formally unavailable. In death, Lorene may well have provided so much more help due to the devotion of those who survived her and her own motivation to help others which had so impressed all that knew her. (Source: support group leader)

Mrs. Joseph Griggs: female, age/date of death unknown. Cause of death: toxoplasmosis and bacterial infection of brain. (Source: letter.)

Linda Grommes, 54, died of CFIDS/ME on August 1, 2007 in Fountain Hills, AZ.  For 31 years, since contracting what seemed like the flu that wouldn't go away, Linda was forced to give up many things but remained hopeful. Linda earned her BS degree and was the class valedictorian.  A former systems analyst for the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, MI, Linda found a new avocation after she became sick and bred and raised Shetland Sheepdogs transcending the disease again and again.  When a further decline in her health forced her to give that up, she found other ways to enjoy life and remained hopeful, trying experimental treatments and being an online contributor to a group. She was nearly bed-bound during her last five years of life and suffered greatly, but continued to inspire hope in all around her. Linda leaves her husband, Bob, her mother and two adult stepchildren..  (Source: Bob Grommes)

Janeen Guidry: female, about 50 years-old. Died 1994 of causes unknown. (Source: letter from family member.)

Keshan Gunawardena, 13, and his mother, Dinesha, 45, both died of an overdose of a prescribed drug in April of 2001. Dinesha was an accountant for British Airways before she became ill with CFIDS/ME. Keshan was a student at England’s Eton where he was considered to be a brilliant scholar who had won a scholarship the previous year. Dinesha and her husband came from Sri Lanka in the 1970’s. He was a physician and the director of a clinical research company. A British tabloid, The Guardian, attributed her action to depression.

Charles Thomas Halder: 72 year-old male. Date and cause of death unknown. Long-term patient. (Source: family member.)

Jean Hardy: female, mid-50s, cause of death: suicide citing disability and pain. (Source: CFIDS/ME support group leader and friend.)

Tracy Lynn Harmon, 36, died in 2004 in Ashville, North Carolina, after years of mistreatment and abuse by mental health professionals.  When in third grade, Tracy was diagnosed with a mental illness and was put on medications that were not needed.  Although she was finally diagnosed correctly, when a teenager, with CFIDS/ME as well as FMS, she continued to be treated by those in the mental health field who insisted that her mother was a problem (Maunchausen's-by-proxie). Due to multiple absences, she was thrown out of school at age 16. The medication the mental health practitioners had her taking would cause her to hallucinate but when Tracey was too tired to get up early in the morning for breakfast while at a mental institution, she would be punished.  They convinced Tracy that, without the medications given to her for a mental illness, she would die.  She continued to take the medication while living with her mother until she died.  Tracy was the daughter of Nancy and the late Louis Harmon and left a younger brother, Lee. (Source: family)

Robert Duane Harrington, 58, took his own life on January 14 of 2006 after nearly 30 years of severe CFIDS/ME.  Bob was a vocal advocate of his disease and never hesitated to voice his opinion.  He had friends from around the world via the internet as people appreciated his maturity, compassion and sensitivity.  A member of The National CFIDS Foundation, he was hopeful that research would help the many millions suffering and celebrated our achievements via funding research.  Bob's mother suffered from the same illness.  Just a week before he was to be remarried in his 20's, Bob, an executive with Proctor and Gamble, had symptoms that made him think he had a brain tumor.  When that proved wrong, Bob married but found he had to change his working habits until he finally worsened to the point where he could no longer work.   Sensitivities, especially problems with mold, proved to be so incapacitating to Bob in his last years, that he was desperate to find a mold-free environment he could afford to live in. Born in Washington, he lived in Texas and Oklahoma.  Bob fought for so long to find relief but became progressively worse.  He will be missed by a multitude of friends along with his five children and nine grandchildren.

Margaret Hay died of complications from CFIDS/ME in 2003. Margaret was from Australia. (Source: ACT CFIDS/ME Society)

Janis (Jan) Henning died September 3, 2007 at age 57 at home in Lincoln, Nebraska. She had suffered from ME/CFIDS for over 15 years. She had cancer for 2 years which was cured with chemotherapy. Her ME continued relentlessly, however, and the cancer returned with a vengence that involved every system of her body. Her husband, John, said, "The disease just got the best of her." She was a wonderful, empathetic friend with a positive and witty outlook on life. She never accepted the "F" label (chronic "fatigue" syndrome) and referred to her disease as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Her body has been donated to the University in Nebraska at her request. Survivors include her husband, a son, Scott, a daughter-in-law and one grandson. (Source: a close friend)

Jhan Hiber, 53, died on October 4, 2000 by his own hand in Anchorage, Alaska, after receiving news of his declining health. John moved, as a child, to Alaska. He had epilepsy since birth, developed rheumatoid arthritis and CFIDS/ME and, in the 90s was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). He was participating in experimental treatments after spending two decades in radio and television media, primarily in sports broadcasting. Living in Carmel, CA seeking treatment and unable to work since 1991, he was attending a media convention in Alaska. He is survived by his brother, Tom Bowles, sister Barbara Stuart, and son David Gohrband. (Source: Kathleen Houghton)

Jenny Hill  died in April, 2007, at age 24 in Australia.  According to The Sydney Morning Herald, "A bout of flu progressed into headaches and exceptional tiredness, and by the next year, with no resolution in sight, she was referred to a psychiatrist.  Three years later a leading immunologist still thought she was having trouble re-entering normal life after being knocked around by a virus.  He rescribed gradually increasing exercise - a controversial therapy for people with presumed chronic fatigue syndrome - and a self-help book."  Two weeks before her death, her diagnosis of "metochondrial neurogastointestinal encephalomyopathy" was confirmed.  Her own words were spoken at her funeral: "It is not much wonder sufferers become depressed when they see the whole world passing them by.  Life is going on without them.  it is like trying to catch as escalator that is just beyond reach."

Betty Ann Hirschfeld: female, 43 years-old. Died July 24, 1989. Long term patient. Cause of death: took her own life. (Source: family member.)

Susan Hodge: Female: age, date, and cause of death unknown.

Sharon Horejs, R.N., died while battling pneumonia brought on by chemotherapy for cancer while in a hospital in late 2002. Sharon was a beacon of hope for hundreds and hundreds of patients in southern California who got her newsletter for decades. She was highly intelligent and shared her knowledge freely and openly. Sharon, from Laguna Niguel, California, left her husband, Dennis.

Eva Horton died August 30, 2002, of complications of CFIDS/ME. Eva was one of the founding members of the Greensboro, NC, Support Group and will be remembered by the many patients she reached out to with CFIDS/ME. Before becoming disabled, Eva worked in advertising for one of the nation's major furniture groups. She once told a fellow patient that she had "cried all the tears out of her -- she didn't know if she had any more left." She endured all the pain,
disbelief, abandonment, suffering and agony this disease brings with it but she endured for many years. She leaves a daughter, Amber, and many beloved friends who hope she has reached a place where there is no more suffering. (Source: Support Group Friend)

Michael Hunt, 16, was a talented soccer player who was unable to play due to M.E. He fell from a bridge and was hit by a train. Michael had recovered and was able to play his favorite sport once more when he relapsed again. Michael was from England and his young life was ended in October of 1998. (Source: CAME)

Alison Hunter struggled with many years as a child with CFIDS/ME in Australia. She died at age 19 of complications of the disease. A foundation was named in her memory. Allie's dream was that every young person with CFIDS/ME would not be alone. A section of The National Forum is called "Allie's Garden" for news of young people with CFIDS/ME.

Telbert C. Hutchison: 60 year-old male. Died Mar 16, 1997. Cause of death: Mitral valve prolapse as consequence of long-term CFIDS/ME. Occupation: photographer. (Source: family member.)

L. LeAnne Hyneman , 43, died July 11, 2007 of cardiac arrest in Georgia after a difficult 20 year battle with CFIDS/ME. LeAnne was a beautiful, intelligent and "courageous beyond words" person who never complained. After graduating from the University of Georgia, she worked as a paralegal for a year before becoming sick. She was a 1990 participant in the Ampligen trial under the direction of Paul Cheney, M.D. and was rediagnosed with multiple sclerosis near the very end of her life. Her last years saw frequent hospitalizations, a trial on an MS drug that brought on seizures, and even had her teeth break off at the gumline. LeAnne remained hopeful until the end and is missed by her mother, Pat, whom she lived with after becoming ill, a brother, sister and many other relatives and friends. (Source: mother)

Roger Ice died of complications of CFIDS/ME in 2003 in Galt, CA after suffering for many years. Roger left a wife. (Source: Support Group Leader)

Joan Luther Irvine: 49 year-old female. Died Sept. 5, 1996 in Senoma, AZ. A nine year survivor of CFIDS/ME. Cause of death: complications of CFIDS/ME by an overdose of a prescription medicine to which she knowingly was allergic. Ms. Irvine wrote her own obituary, citing "CFIDS complications" as the cause. She also wrote, "I have no qualms about the quality and wonderment and beauty of my life. I had the best of lives -- a good, active, and productive life for 41 years. Who could ask for more? Lover of truth and humankind, of all living things. Avid hiker, backpacker, tennis player, swimmer, and walker." She wrote letter she received from CDC warning against donating blood but a national group refused to publicize the letter. (Source: The Desert Sun, Oct. 5, 1996 and e-mail written before her death.)

Joy Jefferson: female in 40s. Died Oct. 1997. Tested extremely high to Chlamydia pneumonia but lost her valiant battle with CFIDS/ME. She left a husband and many friends in New Mexico who described her as brilliant and caring. (Source: friend.)

Alan J. Jenkins died on March 30, 1998 at age 25 from complications of CFIDS/ME.  Alan, from Filkirk in Scotland, was remembered by a friend as "a lovely light that never got the chance to shine."  (Source: friend)

Linda Jenkins: 42 year-old female. Died Apr. 20, 1996. Cause of death: heart attack. Death attributed to complications from CFIDS/ME. (Source: support group leader.)

Denise Jerry: Female in forties. Date of death unknown. Cause of death: heart attack attributed to CFIDS/ME. Co-leader of Massachusetts support group, founder and leader of Plattsburg CFIDS group. (Source: phone call from support group member.)

Nancy Johnson, 62, died on Mother's Day, 2001, after decades of battling CFIDS/ME with dignity and courage. Nancy was diagnosed in1986 and spent years trying to help others. She was a support group leader in North Carolina who put out a newsletter and worked tirelessly advocating for the illness. She was helped and supported by her husband, Ralph, who remained a constant caregiver and supporter. Less than three years ago, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Wrote a friend, "Sometimes her chemo and cancer pain screamed louder than her CFIDS/ME but it was always there. On the days when most cancer patients would have been able to get out or feel better, Nancy had the double duty of then dealing with her ME." In her husband's words, Nancy was "a very special person." In addition to her husband, Nancy was survived by adult children.

Ada R. Jordan, 65, of Belton, SC, died in April after suffering for many years with CFIDS/ME.  Ada was predeceased by a daughter, Teri Lanee Malone and left her son, Tony Malone, a brother and a grandchild.  Ada kept in touch with other patients from her support group and died at home. (Source: friend)

Dorothy Kayner: female, died 1998 of cancer. An active advocate until she was too ill to participate. (Source: Chicago support group newsletter.)

Kathleen Kelly: Female, age unknown. Died Mar 1996 from suicide. In a note, she wrote that she died from CFIDS/ME. "I can't go anywhere and don't have a moment free of pain. I'm not so much depressed as I am angry because the medical profession is too wrapped up in saving money (rather than) people." (Source: CFIDS support group newsletter.)

Anne Marie Kennedy: 40s female. Died Aug. 1998 "after a long bout with breast cancer and bone cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Ann Marie had taught French, English, and general studies for many years in Massachusetts and Ohio. She was an accomplished pianist and was also known for her talents as a painter and sketch artist. A friend wrote: "There are no words to describe her long and valiant struggle, nor the courage and commitment of her mother...I'll always remember Ann Marie... confined to a wheelchair, but beautiful and golden and ethereal and charming..." (Source: Boston College Alum notes.)

David Killingbeck: Male, age unknown. Died Sept. 1996. Had CFIDS/ME for 9 years. Died from complications of CFIDS in Victoria, Australia. (Source: letter.)

Pamela Sue King, 62, died suddenly on May 13, 2005, at her home.  Pamela had been disabled for about 5 years.  A former cook at a dormitory at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA, Pam was a mother and grandmother.  She was a member of the San Joaquin ME/FMS Support Network in Woodbridge, CA.  (Source: support group)

Jeanine Isabelle Myers Knaff, 71, died of heart complications from CFIDS/ME on July 26, 2000. Jeanine was a long-term ME and FMS patient who was a registered nurse as well as a relentless searcher for answers which she shared with her Rockford, IL support group. Her daughter, Faith, has suffered from CFIDS/ME since a young teenager. Jeanine had an extensive library of CFIDS/ME information which has been donated to a local hospital. She was considered a heroine by many who knew her in her area. (Source: daughter)

Joanne Kruger died of complications of CFIDS/ME in 1996. (Source: BRAME)

Paul Lavenger, M.D. died in April of 1995 of colon cancer after suffering with CFIDS/ME for a decade.  An internal medicine specialist, Dr. Lavenger had to retire after a 25 year career.  His wife got CFIDS/ME just two years before he got ill.  In 1991, he publicly criticized the government's negligence in an interview in a New York newspaper as well as strongly suggesting the disease was in epidemic proportions.  (Source:  Osler's Web:Inside the Labyrinth of the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Epidemic by Hillary Johnson)

Tom Lay, Jr. died on Sunday, June 23, 2002 at home in Middletown, Ohio from hepatitis/liver failure. Tom was a long-term PWME/C who was active on one of the first online support groups, Prodigy. Before becoming disabled with ME, Tom was an accountant. Although single, Tom's family was supportive. He had hospice for the last month of his life. (Source: internet friend from CA)

Tina Marlene Lech, 47, of Springdale, Arkansas, died March 12, 2005. After Tina was diagnosed with CFIDS/ME, she was also diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, scleroderma and Raynaud's Syndrome.  Many in her family have also been diagnosed with CFIDS/ME. She fought valiantly while suffering and, shortly before her death, had an operation. She was sent home to recuperate and died just days later.  Tina is survived by her husband, a daughter, five sons, her mother, a brother and sister and six grandchildren.  Her last message to all of us was, "Miss me but let me go."  (Source: Sister of deceased)

Inez Lehrer died in her sleep during the summer of 2000 from an aneurysm. She was a five year sufferer of CFIDS/ME and had MCS as well. Although she lived in Pebble Beach, her son made her funeral arrangements in Tampa, Florida.
Inez's death was reported by her support group, the CFS/FMS/ME Support Group for the Central Coast (California) but she had been too ill to attend the group's meetings.

James S. LeRoy, 47. Died April 5, 1999 of unknown causes. Contracted CFIDS/MCS in October of 1982. Went on disability in 1993. Was formally a software consultant. Married another CFIDS patient, Sarah, in 1994. James worked tirelessly to help others with CFIDS/MCS and many now say, "He changed my life." James is missed for his love, laughter, strength, intelligence, and skills by his wife, his parents, two sisters, and 23 nieces and nephews. (Source: Sarah LaBelle, widow)

Martin Lev: Male, died 1992. (Source: BRAME)

Joan Lidoff, Ph.D. a professor of English at the University of Texas at Austin, died on October 20, 1989, at age 45, of cardiac arrest. Dr. Lidoff had a Ph.D. from Harvard University and taught at the University of Massachusetts and Boston College before joining the faculty of joining the faculty at UT. She was a pioneer in women's studies as well as an author. Joan struggled for years with what was then called "Chronic Epstein-Barr Virus." Her heart complications seemed a direct result of her long-term illness. (Source: friend)

Priscilla Loanes: Female. Died 1992 by her own hand. Was Boston's first support group leader and she is still missed by many of her friends.

Nancy Lou Loe: 56 year-old female. Died June 25, 1994. Cause of death: unknown. North Sound CFIDS Support Network Leader, she wrote shortly before her death, "The guilt, shame, and suggestion of others that there was nothing wrong were destroying me more than the illness." (Source: Newspaper obit and letter by Nancy.)

Amy Long, a long-term patient with CFIDS. Died late 1980-s by her own hand. Was one of the original eleven to be put on Ampligen on a pilot trial by HEM Pharmaceuticals. Amy was an acutely severe patient.

Peggy Lowell died on March 27th, 2007 at the age of 54.  Peggy kept track of the data base for the River Falls (Wisconsin) CFIDS Support Group, printed out their mailing labels and contributed some funny cartoons about her own experiences of living with CFIDS/ME.  A progressively severe patient who experienced a great deal of pain, Peggy courageously began her own home business, the Lowell NcNaughton Soap Company. Living alone, Peggy worsened and realized she could no longer care for herself. A nursing home seemed inevitable.  She decided to take the only other option and end her life.  Peggy will be missed by many friends as well as her sister, Pat Hammerback. (Source: Sally Borden)

Audrey May Cornish MacKenzie, 65, died on June 4th, 2007, in Toronto, Canada.  Audrey was a nurse who got CFIDS/ME over 25 years before her death.  From 2000 to 2006, Audrey was the president of the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Association of Ontario.  She put out a newsletter, did fundraising and addressed politicians.  A friend described her as "kind and caring...frail but formidable and fiercely determined."   (Source: ME Assoc. of Ontario)

Joan Mansell died in September of 2002 of a heart attack. Joan was a member of the New South Wales, Australian group of the Northern Rivers CFIDS/ME/FM Support Organization and was a long-term patient with CFIDS/ME. She was 86 when she passed away. (Source: Merle Fullerton, NR CFIDS/ME/FM)

Glenn Marcus: male in early 20s, 1994. Cause: Unknown. Autopsy showed stomach seemingly exploded with bits found throughout body. Died in his sleep while attending college part-time in California. A Massachusetts resident, he had CFIDS/ME since a young teen. Remembered as a warm, cheerful youth with many unfulfilled dreams. Survived by one older brother and parents. A memorial fund that distributed library books in his name was established. (Source: parents, support group leader.)

Leslie A. Masewicz of Del Mar, CA, died in October of 1999 due to the harassment and badgering of UNUM, her long-term disability company, combined with the ravages of her illness. Leslie was scheduled to make a TV appearance in the spring of 1999 but became too frightened. In 1997, she had written the Department of Labor about her abuse and asked, "How is this horrific activity allowed to happen and to continue?" Leslie was diagnosed with CFIDS/ME.

Jim Maude: male, age, date of death unknown. Cause of death: Liver and spleen damage due to CFIDS/ME. New York City resident, had been employed in a workplace where seven people now suffer from CFIDS/ME. (Source: colleague letter.)

George S. Ascott May: Male, 39 years-old. Died Sept. 6, 1995. Cause of death: unknown. Occupation: airline rated pilot and printing specialist. (Source: letter from friend and obit.)

Lois McAtee: 52 year-old female. Died 1992. Cause of death: lymphoma attributed to CFIDS/ME. Long-term care nurse. Her two daughters, one grandchild, and one niece also have CFIDS/ME.

Kay McDonald, 54, died of smoke inhalation when her apartment building burned. Kay had been ill with CFIDS/ME since age 20. She is sadly missed by many members of her Athens, GA support group. Kay left husband, Bill.

Kathleen "Kitty" Meeks, 54, died on March 24, 2001. She valiantly fought a battle against both breast cancer and CFIDS/ME for many years. Kitty lived
in southern California and was active in her cancer support group. Her sister, Vivien Haynes, an CFIDS/ME activist, felt it hypocritical to complain about her own pain when her sister had battled cancer as well as CFIDS/ME with FMS. She is greatly missed.

Kara Ann Menowske, 36, died June 3, 2001 of complications from Myalgic encephalomyelitis. Kara graduated Kathryn Gibbs and worked for an investment firm until what appeared to be an ongoing "flu" forced her to stop working nearly 10 years ago. An autopsy was inconclusive. The whimpering of Kara's dog alerted her mother who found Kara dead. Kara left her parents, a sister, and brother, all of Massachusetts. Donations in her memory have gone to research through the National CFIDS Foundation.

Harry Metsemakers, a patient who was online with a group for the United Kingdom's ME patients, died on July 2nd of a sudden heart attack. "Harry was warm and caring and reached out to many others," a friend of his told us. He left a wife and grown children. His widow passed on his medical books to his friend, John. Harry is acutely missed.

Daryl Milam died in the fall of 1999. A member of the Anderson Area CFIDS/FM Support Group, she had breast cancer and another form of cancer, both thought to be a result of her CFIDS/ME. A mother and grandmother, Ann was 53 and lived in South Carolina. (Source: support group leader.)

Laura Reina Milgrim, 68, a long-term patient with ME, died in mid-March, 2001, of pneumonia which lead to blood poisoning, a complication of ME. Laura was a caring, vibrant person who spent years trying to have physicians and researchers take an interest in ME. Laura had an adult son, John, but died weeks before her first grandchild was born. In her obituary from The New York Times, Laura was called "Manhattan's lady of dignity and grace." She danced the Opera Ball in Vienna, toured with Bob Hope in the USO, explored the globe and loved the Yankees. In constant pain, Laura had an unconquerable soul that fought to the end. A member of The National CFIDS Foundation since its inception, she is greatly missed by many friends.

Nit Minsik: Female, died 1997. A committed activist from Australia. (Source: CFIDS/ME newsletter.)

Sophia  Mirza was an active and outgoing young woman who loved to travel and to hike.  She died on November 25, 2005, at age 32. Her death came nearly four years after the UK published a report on "CFS/ME" that recognised these patients were confronting medical arrogance and ignorance and just six years after contracting a "'flu" that she could not recover from.  Her mother helped to care for her bedridden daughter and told told many how medical professionals abused her by placing her, unattended, in a psychiatric ward after breaking down her door.  Her initial autopsy showed no cause of death.  An advocacy group arranged for a more extensive autopsy that found "unequivocal inflammatory changes" and many other abnormalities including a "fatty liver" now known to be caused by the ciguatera epitope. Sophia was the first person with myalgic encephalomyelitis to die and have the autopsy prove she died from M.E. in England.

Beverly Morin: Female, age unknown. Died 1994. Cause of death: Complications attributed to CFIDS/ME. (Source: support group leader.)

Jean A. Morwick, 56, died on December 29, 2000, after a five week hospitalization for complications of CFIDS/ME. Jean had been battling connective tissue damage to the spine, lymphodema, and other long-term effects of CFIDS/ME. She had been housebound for the last ten years of her life following an onset when she was 30 years old. Jean was a member of the National CFIDS Foundation since its inception and helped with advocacy as much as her health permitted. She was a source of comfort to many with the illness, never hesitating to give time to others. Although she was unable to work, she kept up many interests, had pen pals from all over the world, and kept as active as was possible. Jean, from Scituate, Massachusetts, was survived by her parents, although her father died just months
later. She also is survived by one brother. Many of our members miss Jean.

Nell Myers, 67, a long-term sufferer of CFIDS/ME, died of lung cancer on May 30, 1998. Nell, from Mead, Oklahoma, rarely could leave her house during the last five years of her life. She left an adult son, Robert Harrington, who also has CFIDS/ME.

Alison Kramer Murphy: female, 45 years-old. Died 1998. Was a special education teacher but was sick for many years. Died of "unknown causes" while under a hospital's care. Left one son. (Source: obit and person friend.)

Janis Murphy: Female, age, date of death unknown. Cause of death: seizure attributed to CFIDS/ME.

Carolyn Musca, a long term ME patient died in 1990 from a sudden melanoma. Carolyn was the author of "The Artist, The Egg, and the Illness." She was an artist that used Egg Tempera and lived in Western Australia. (Source: Australia's Country Network.)

Selvon Nelson, D.O. died of a heart attack at the age of 62 on February 10, 2003. Dr. Nelson had CFIDS/ME. He had several degrees and treated many patients with the illness. Said one, "He was wonderful, but disgusted with the cover-up." From Michigan, Dr. Nelson left his wife and several daughters who suffer from the illness. (Source: patient)

Mary Olson, 71, died on December 4th, 2003 while hospitalized in Billings, Montana. Although fluid and cancer was found in Mary's stomach, total kidney shutdown was considered the complication of CFIDS/ME in her death. Her pastor's wife remained a help to the end after Mary had battled with CFIDS/ME for 20 years although physicians in the area did not "believe" the disease existed. Mary was a member of The National CFIDS Foundation and a "free, independent spirit who always gave of herself," according to a friend. Her husband left her years before after she contracted CFIDS/ME, and she lived alone with her dog, Rambo. Mary left many good friends who miss her. (Source: patient friend)

Terri Opsitnick, 46, died suddenly of CFIDS/ME complications in October of 2001. The coroner's report said her adult-onset asthma restricted her breathing during sleep which restricted oxygen to the brain during REM sleep. One of Terri's three young children found her in their San Bernadine County home. Brandon, Mac, and Theresa have been taken to Pennsylvania to live following their mother's death. Terri's pain was most pronounced and she was active online with FMS groups.

Patricia Page died on September 12, 2001, at age 65. Patricia was a long-term patient who was active on internet groups and tried to assist others with the
disease. She endeared herself to many on the internet. Pat's CFIDS/ME was secondary to her rheumatoid arthritis which began in her 30's. She leaves behind
her husband of 30 years, George, and her daughter, Penny. Patricia was an animal lover, especially dogs, and, most especially, German Shephards.

Princess Leila Pahlavi, 31, died on June 10, 2001 of what the newspapers called "the rare disease myalgic encephalomyelitis." The youngest daughter of the late deposed shah of Iran, she was a child when the Ayatollah Khomeini took over country. Leila graduated from Brown University and spent years living in Connecticut. She was a resident of London when she died. Her mother resides in Paris where Leila was buried. Aside from one brother, nobody mentioned "M.E.," but preferred to blame her suffering on "depression," although she had been sick for six years. The physician who prescribed for her in London was being investigated for over prescribing. Cocaine and Seconal was found in her blood.

Laurie Jean Pennella of Groton, CT died on January 26, 2006 at the age of 44 from CFIDS/ME.  Her symptoms included extreme fatigue, memory loss, inability to digest food, and an intense and excruciating burning pain in her stomach, abdomen, urinary tract and eyes.  She was a beautiful, caring and highly educated person.  Throughout her short but productive life, Laurie helped so many people.  For the last several years of her life, Laurie explored every possibility to find an effective treatment for CFIDS, but always met with a stone wall.  She wanted to be on this list to encourage everyone to keep trying to find a medical breakthrough to eradicate this very painful and misunderstood disease.  Laurie left her parents and a younger sister who reside in the state of Washington. (Source: friend)

Vic Perrine, age unknown, died of complications of ME/CFIDS, on October 28, 1999.  He died of a malignant lymphoma caused by reactivated Epstein-Barr Virus, an occurrence with ME.  The Minnesota resident had not been diagnosed with cancer until the last year of his life although he had been very sick for 4-5 years.  Vic is survived by a daughter who also has ME/CFIDS along with high levels of reactivated EBV.  (Source: Anita Burgess, support group leader)

Wendy Peters: female, 34 years-old. Had CFIDS for 16 years. Cause of death: Epstein-Barr Virus (according to obit). Wendy died while a patient at Massachusetts General Hospital. Rockport, MA. (Source: parent.)

Patty Phillips died on January 3, 2005 at age 60.  Patty was diagnosed with CFIDS/ME yet always cheered others with her upbeat attitude.  She looked uncannily like "Maxine" of greeting card popularity and reminded many of Maxine's outspoken character.  Active in the SJ CFIDS/ME/FMS support group of California, Patty's absence from their pot luck dinners and other activities will be felt keenly. She was married for 43 years to her husband, Arnold and also left her daughters Terry Unger and Tricia Johnston, 5 grandchildren, and her sister, Vivien.  She will be remembered and missed by the many lives she touched and the smiles she brought to so many. (Source: Family member)

Dave Plank, from South Africa, died of complications of ME. Dave died in 2001. (Source: BRAME's "Forget Me Not" list published in Australia's Country Network newsletter)

George Pollack, 80's, from Charters Towers, Queensland, Australia, died in 2001. George was a quiet man with dignity who often felt the profound isolation of myalgic encephalomyelitis while living in his remote country town. He leaves a sister who is suffering from cancer and a small dog who was his companion for years. (Source: Country Network of Northern Rivers CFIDS/ME/FM Support Association, Inc. of NSW)

Michele Porcoro: female, age and date of death unknown. Had CFIDS/ME for over 5 years. Cause of death: liver failure caused by overdose of acetaminophen. (Source: letter from friend.)

Connie Pruit died late in 1999 leaving her husband and family. A member of the Anderson CFIDS/FM Support Group, she was a long-term CFIDS/ME patient and is missed by her family and friends. (Source: support group leader.)

Gilda Radner: female, died early 90s. Diagnosed with CFIDS by Dr. Anthony Komaroff, died of ovarian cancer. Actress and comedienne.

Joanne Redumis: Female, age 33. Died Feb. 22, 1999. Dedicated activist who gave support and encouragement to others in Texas. Cause of death: unknown but attributed to CFIDS/ME.

Doris Reed: female, age unknown. Died Aug. 1996 in Norwood, PA. Was a long-term patient. Cause of death: suicide. (Source: friend, support group leader.)

Stuart Reid died suddenly in early 2000. Stuart was president of the ME Victoria Association (Canada) and a dedicated volunteer worker. He leaves his wife, Pauline and family. (Source: Hellie McLelland)

Dennis Reublin: male, age unknown. Died 1998 by his own hand. Caring and astute, he tried to buck the system and was frustrated time and again by the uneducated and unbelieving. A resident of New Mexico. (Source: a friend.)

Julie Revill, 58, took her own life in 2006 near her family home in England after years of suffering from ME.  Julie had found some help at the only hospital in Essex that treats CFIDS/ME but was denied funding by her local health authority for any further treatment and her health deteriorated dramatically. (Source: newspaper)

John Rinkin died in 2001 and was in his late 60's. John was from Ballina, Australia. (Source: BRAME's "Forget Me Not" list published in Australia's Country Network newsletter)

Robert Roache died in 2001. Robert was in his 70's and lived in Casino, Australia. (Source: BRAME's "Forget Me Not" list published in Australia's Country Network newsletter)

Grace Rofe, an ME patient from Australia, died in mid-June of 1999 from an apparent heart attack although previous heart problems were unknown. Grace, in her 60's, had attended a support group just a few days before her untimely death. (Source: Journal of CFIDS/ME Country Network in Australia.)

Ann Roy died 1994 at age 62. A resident of Quebec,Canada, Bee had CFS/FMS for many years. She was so cognitively impaired that she would go out for a walk and her niece would often have to go find her to bring her home. On one walk, in 1994, she got so disoriented that she walked into the path of a city bus and died from the resulting impact.

Sabrina _____, 42, took her own life after being a long-term sufferer of CFIDS/ME, undergoing a quadruple bypass, and then developing an infection that wasn't treated correctly. She leaves her husband, Rich, and a teenaged son, Jarrod. (Source: WECAN)

Carl Salie: male, age unknown. Died Feb. 26, 1996. Cause of death: heart failure attributed to CFIDS/ME. (Source: letter from support group leader.)

Irma Rita Sandoz: female approximately 50 years old. Died March 1993. Cause of death: cancer, heart disease, diabetes, CFIDS/ME. Volunteered in Lafayette CFIDS support group. (Source: support group leader.)

Donald Bradford Sanford, 60, died of complications of CFIDS/ME on April 15, 2003. Don had been rushed to the hospital having massive seizures and his heart stopped during a test. He was one of the first support group leaders in Massachusetts with a group in Wrentham and spent time reaching out to others. He was a lover of nature and mankind with a gentle heart that encompassed both. His photographs of nature were as touching and beautiful as he was. Don suffered the worst extremes of all ME symptoms. Don's physicians did not believe "CFS" existed. When he was paralyzed on one side of his body, a neurologist told him that he should now believe he had MS and the damage was permanent. Don walked into the physician's office weeks later unaided but the physician would not change his mind, merely calling his MS "atypical." Wanting to give all he could, just as he did in life, Don asked that donations at the time of his death be made to The National CFIDS Foundation. When his own organ donations were refused, his wife, knowing how much he wanted to help and still being supportive, requested slides prepared to send to the researchers in Hawaii that the foundation is currently funding. Don continued to help others even after his demise. In addition to his wife, Ann, he leaves his mother, Ruth, son Jay and stepson Bruce, two grandsons, four great grandchildren, and a brother. Don is missed by so many because he touched so many lives.

Carl Scott, 33, died suddenly in South Wales, UK after suffering with ME for 17 years. The cause of death was listed as a Coxackie-b virus which caused his heart to stop. He had tested positive to Coxackie-b virus at the onset of ME. Carl is sorely missed by his large family and, especially, by his parents and carers, Gaynor and John Scott. His sudden and premature passing was a great shock to the community. (Source: Laura Jones)

Crystal Sedberry: female, age unknown. Died March 23, 1995. Cause of death: breast cancer. Had CFIDS/ME for many years. Occupation: Licensed Vocational Nurse. (Source: letter from a friend.)

Nelson Selvon, D.O., 62, died of a massive heart attack on February 10, 2003. Dr. Selvon got his medical degree from Michigan and practiced in Lansing after beginning as a pharmacist. He was in touch with Paul Cheney, M.D., Ph.D. trying to follow his protocol for his many patients. One of his many grateful patients said, "He was wonderful!" Dr. Selvon leaves a wife and several daughters who also are afflicted with CFIDS/ME.

Annabel Senior, aged 60, died on January 8th after 45 years of CFIDS/ME. Toward the end, she was unable to eat anything due to multiple abreactions. She lasted for nearly 53 days without food, and only gave up water toward the end, because she was too weak to swallow. Annabel was 15 when she became sick and died at age 60. The coroner's report said, ""Death due to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome...1a. Left ventricular failure, 1b. Occlusive coronary artery atheroma." She leaves her constant caregiver and husband, Richard. Annabel lived in Conway Valley, North Wales in the United Kingdom.

Gloria Senuta, a resident of Illinois, died of unknown causes, assumed to be a result of CFIDS/ME, at her home in 2003. (Source: Carol Howard, Pres., Chicago CFS Assoc.)

Barry Sheene, 52, died of complications of CFIDS/ME in October of 2002 at his Gold Coast home in Australia. He had been diagnosed with cancer of the upper stomach and esophagus months earlier. Barry was a two time world motorcycle champion and suffered from CFIDS/ME for more than a decade. On one television program on "CFS" in 1998, Barry mentioned that his long history of accidents, including having both legs smashed, were "a piece of cake" compared to having CFIDS/ME.

Shelia ______: female in her twenties. Died June 1997. Cause of death: suicide. (Source: CFS-L posting.)

Jeffrey A. Sherkey, M.D., died on June 20, 2004 from a brain tumor.  He was comatose during the last two weeks of his life.  Dr. Sherkey had ME/CFIDS for many years and treated hundreds with the same disease in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.  He was a member of the Canadian ME/CFS Working Case Review Definition and Treatment Protocol.  Dr. Sherkey left a wife, Cheryl Appell, a daughter, Mariam, and many other loving family members as well as hundreds of patients who miss his care, support, compassion and hope. 

Lewis E. Shuman, 66, died on June 29, 2006 from complications of ME/CFIDS.  On a ventilator prior to his last month of life and in severe pain, he was diagnosed first with prostate cancer and then with lung cancer.  His only close family member, his brother Jared, offered him little support.  Lew spent his last week alive in a coma.  He got validation as a long-term member of the Rochester, NY support group where members found him a "gentle, loving angel" and "a fascinating man."  Lew, who spoke many languages, taught middle school and devoted time to his love of antiques.  He spent several years in Switzerland and is remembered and missed by many of his former students in the Rochester, NY area as well as his support group friends.

Susan Simon: Female, approx. 50. Died 1993. Long term CFIDS/ME patient. Cause of death: hit by a truck while crossing the street in her wheelchair in NYC when planning to see a lawyer about suing the NIH's Stephen Straus. (Source: Osler's Web by Hillary Johnson.)

Donna Singletary died in February of 2001 from severe complications of CFIDS/ME. Donna, a long-term patient, thought she was having a panic attack at home and asked her husband to pray for her. He performed CPR. An autopsy showed a cardiac embolism was the cause. An active member of her support group, Donna was caring and loving, calling those in particular need often. Her husband, at her funeral, recalled how he had given her a kiss when he was six years old and they were at a playground, and then ran! He learned not to run and was very supportive of her and the immense pain that she suffered. Donna leaves her husband, Ron, two sons and a granddaughter, Samantha.

Margaret Slahoe, DMD, was 43 and died on March 31, 1999. She had been a PWC since 1992 and died of CFIDS related causes after a lengthy illness, according to the obituary. Her doctor was one who didn't believe in CFIDS/ME and would not prescribe the necessary pain medication. A good friend believes Peg died due to the ignorance of the medical community. Peg lived in Pennsylvania. (Source: telephone call and obituary)

Arnold Smith died of complications of CFIDS/ME in 1994 and is remembered in the Forget Me Not list of BRAME's representatives in Australia.

Sharyn Smith: female in her fifties. Died May 1997. Had CFIDS/ME between 10 and 20 years. Cause of death: Massive coronary. Had been house-bound for many years with no history of coronary problems. New Hampshire resident. (Source: support group leader from NH)

Barbara Staples, a long-term CFIDS/ME/FMS patient in her 40s died of an apparent blood clot following a severe fracture of her leg on September 28, 1999. Barbara was known online for her eloquent posts to lists and had a number of good friends. Just before her death, she had moved with her family from E. Sandwich, Massachusetts to West Virginia. She is sorely missed by both those in the patient community as well as her family. Barbara was a member of The National CFIDS Foundation.

Marilyn J. Stewart, 63, died on August 21, 2003, in Venice, Florida, from lung and brain cancer, an outcome of her CFIDS/ME. Marilyn, a valued member of The National CFIDS Foundation, Inc., was an artist and a long time sufferer of CFIDS/ME. Marilyn organized one of the early conferences held in Florida on CFIDS/ME where, for the first time, Dr. Elaine DeFreitas explained her discoveries. She also conceived of and brought to fruition a calendar project to raise awareness and funds for the disease and continued to help in many ways through the years. Marilyn was an "Essential Volunteer" for The National CFIDS Foundation and is missed by us all. Her final gift to the patients was tissue samples for ongoing research. One of the first support group leaders in Florida, Marilyn was survived by her mother, F. Marian Stewart, three brothers, and 10 nieces and nephews.

Sherry Wagner Stockton died on July 31, 2002. Sherry was the President of the Atlanta CFIDS Support Group in the late 1980's and early 90's. An advocate and tireless worker for others with CFIDS/ME, Sherry had suffered with the illness for over 25 years. Formally a nurse certified in neonatology, Sherry worked primarily as a pediatric/neonatal intensive care nurse. She was in the first Ampligen trial under Paul Cheney, M.D. Sherry leaves her husband, Herbert, two sons,
Christopher, 21, and Kevin, 19, her mother Doris Wagner, four brothers (Danny, Jerry, Pat, and Jack), and her sister Roseanne Harris. She was taken to the hospital in May and they found infiltration in her lungs. Numerous clear scans later, she was moved to a recuperative center where she, again, began failing. Transferred back to the hospital, she died of 4th stage lung cancer. Helping others even after her death, donations in her memory were sent to The National CFIDS
Foundation's matching fundraiser.

Philip Stoller, who had CFIDS/ME for 5 years, died in 2000 of diabetes, which was undiagnosed. His wife hopes that his death was not in vain and that physicians will look beyond CFIDS/ME for other diseases or conditions. Philip was from Arizona.

Charles Striffler: male, age unknown, date of death unknown. Died of massive liver and spleen damage in NYC, NY. He had been employed at a workplace where seven other people now suffer from CFIDS/ME. (Source: letter from a colleague.)

Donna Sundberg: female, age unknown. Died Nov. 1995. Cause of death: lethal ingestion of narcotics and analgesics. (Source: CFS newsletter.)

Nancy Elizabeth Taylor, 73, died July 21st, 2007.  Nancy first became ill in 1977 following a blood transfusion but was not diagnosed with CFIDS/ME until 1986.  In 1989, she was among the first 15 patients to receive Ampligen for 16 weeks in a pilot trial. Nancy and her husband provided funding for many CFIDS/ME projects including the National CFIDS Foundation's research endeavors along with supporting the Tulsa (OK) Ballet, the Tulsa Philharmonic, domestic violence intervention and other worthy endeavors. A member of the National CFIDS Foundation since its inception, Nancy found herself only able to be functional for a few hours a day well over a decade ago.  The time shortened until she was not capable of taking care of herself and was suffering a great deal but she remained courageous. The graceful and compassionate Nancy left her husband of 54 years, Edward L. Taylor, her children Edward Taylor, M.D., Suzanne Taylor, and Stephen Taylor along with 5 grandchildren, Lauren, Courtney, Brittany, Stephen, and Katie.  Reaching out to others even after death, donations in Nancy's memory were made to the NCF earmarked for research. (Source: Tulsa World Newspaper)

Ted ____ was an extremely thin CFIDS/ME patient who had no prior heart problems. He was a member of the Worcester, MA CFIDS/FMS Support Group and a long-term patient who died of a massive coronary. (Source: support group leader.)

Tracy Temp: female, 29 years old. Died Sept. 26, 1991. Cause of death: self-induced overdose. Occupation: formerly a special education teacher. Tracy tried, in vain, to get adequate help for her pain. Her physicians did not take her seriously enough. The documentary has her mother reading aloud a portion of her suicide note addressed to her physician where she said, "Maybe today will be tolerable." She was told, repeatedly, that her illness was "all in her head" and was sick for 1,115 working days. When the disease struck, Tracy was one half way through her Master's degree. Her physician, on the documentary, admits he failed her. (Source: Living Hell, a documentary film.) 

Dick Thomas, of Stockton, CA, was an active member of the San Joaquin CFIDS/FMS support group from 1987 until 1993. He had a wonderful sense of humor and great compassion for others. Dick exhibited strength and dignity until he died from complications of CFIDS in St. Joseph's Medical Center. (Source: San Joaquin CFIDS/FMS Support Group)

Rabbi Chana Timoner: female, 46 years old. Died 1988. First woman rabbi to be an active army chaplain . An outspoken advocate for oppressed, she was forced to leave the army after the onset of CFIDS/ME. Cause of death: suicide. (Source: newspaper obits, NY Times, Hartford Current.)

Wilma Urbanek, of Illinois, died in 2003 of complications of CFIDS/ME, i.e. cancer. (Source: Carol Howard, Pres., Chicago CFS Assoc.)

Beth Ann van der Berg, 51, died on October 15, 2006.  She had been diagnosed in the late 1980's while living in Minnesota.  Months before her death, she was challenged with many symptoms and was hospitalized several times.  No full autopsy was done.  Beth left her husband, Wim and many friends with CFIDS/ME when she died at her home in Wisconsin. (Source: friend)

Susan Vasbinder took her own life on March 12, 2002 after a long and painful bout of ME. Susan was born in Ohio and was a student at Kent State in 1970
where the events spurred her on to activism (four students were killed by the National Guard). She left her life partner, Charlie, and many friends and
colleagues who all miss her powerful spirit.

Eve Vind died in late June, 2002. Eve had severe multiple chemical sensitivities (environmental illness) along with a heart condition that further complicated her
poor health. She lived in Texas with her husband, Gerald, who was very supportive. The cause of death was congestive heart failure. (Source: Kathleen
Houghton)

Karen Lynn Walker: female, 46 years old. Died March, 1993. She fought for a diagnosis, for disability, for treatment. A warm, active, caring artist, she willed 1/3 of her estate to help others with this illness. The money went to CFIDSERS, the CFIDS Emergency Relief Services, and to the National CFIDS Foundation where they established a research fund in her memory.

Kathleen Walker, from Washington, died on the 24th of January, 2004.  She was in her 40's and had suffered from CFIDS/ME for over a decade.  She took an intentional overdose of medication when she couldn't handle being in constant pain any longer.  Kathleen loved life but hated the way her own life had turned out. (Source: her roomate)
 
Evalina Wallace valiantly battled ME/CFIDS for 18 years before succumbing to ovarian cancer at age 47 in 2001 in Taunton.  Evi was a beautiful, intelligent and soft-spoken woman admired and loved by many who knew her.  She came down with what she thought was the flu but kept relapsing.  During that time, she met and married her husband, Joseph, who was attracted to her sweetness and who witnessed her courageous battle with the devastating disease.  A member of the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts CFIDS Association, Evi was a representative of the general membership until the resignation of the first president in 1997. She tried many different methods to see if they would help including nutritional protocols.  She is missed greatly by her husband as well as a daughter, Erica, and numerous friends.  (Source: Gail Kansky)
 
Deborah Ward, 46, died in the spring of 2000.  Her death was sudden after suffering from CFIDS/ME for many years. (Source: Anne-Marie Vidal)

JR Weber, male age 18, died January 12, 2003, at home in Grants Pass, OR from acute myolytic leukemia as a result of chemo regimen during Burkitt's Lymphoma at age 15 and complications of CFIDS/ME that he had been diagnosed with at age 7. He is survived by his mother, Sue Tobias, a PWME/C and facilitator of local support group, 3 brothers and a sister. He had been home schooled, loved to play his drums, and designed two web sites. He had turned 18 on December 12 and had never wanted the first chemo because his quality of life was so poor that he just wanted out of his body and to be with the Lord, but the treating facility threatened to take custody in spite of his wishes. NY children's services had tried to have him removed from his home at age 7 because of his inability to attend school but decided charges were unfounded when he remained ahead of his class in spite of his lack of attendance and illness. He had finished his home schooling and was preparing to take his GED when he was diagnosed with cancer. His probing mind and delightful wit are sorely missed by his Mom but she knows he is no longer suffering from the ravages of this illness. (Source: Sue Tobias, mother)

Candace Dinardi Weinrich, 45, of Littleton, CO, died early in August of 2001. Candace had CFIDS/ME/FMS and struggled to have a rewarding life. Candace touched many people with her unique wit. A pianist in her spare time, Candace was an engineer specializing in microchip design. Her family requested donations to the Candace Dinardi Memorial Fund be sent to CFIDSERS, a worthwhile charity.

Sandra L. Welker died on November 24, 1995 of a brain tumor. She was 36 and would have been eligible for gene therapy (anti-herpes drugs) within weeks. Her sister, within a few years, was diagnosed with CFIDS/ME. Sandra had gioblastoma multiform and lived just over 100 days after her diagnosis.

Lyn Wenzell, 57, had her life taken from her by her husband of 29 years. Lyn was able to work despite suffering from fibromyalgia. Her husband was found guilty of second degree murder. Lynn died in July of 1999.

Patricia (Trish) White died in late November of 2005.  She was known as "Pawpurr256" online and was a frequent contributor to a list on experimental treatments and tried several remedies.  Trish got CFIDS/ME shortly after she graduated from college and was in her mid-forties when she died of brain cancer.  She had received chemotherapy and other treatments for the cancer for years before she died and wrote of "the nice energy boost" she got immediately after her chemo sessions as well as "seep cycles" being the most normal that she recalled.  At the time of her death, she was living in Phoenix, AZ.

Kathleen Wilkinson died in October of 2001 by her own hand after suffering for decades with CFIDS/ME.  Kathleen had told others that she wanted to be able to end her life while she still had the ability to do so.  She was from Salem, MA and was a member of a state support group. (Source: Anne-Marie Vidal)

Deborah D. Williams died in the late winter of 1999 by her own hand. She was from Pasadena, CA, got poor medical care and was a long-term PWC. (Source: CA support group leader.)

Dave Winslow was a long-term PWC who died of a massive coronary in May of 1999. He was in his early 40s and had lost his job, wife, and family due to his illness. He had seen his doctor just days before his death with no indications of prior cardiac problems. Dave was in his early 40s and died in May of 1999. He was a resident of Massachusetts. (Source: The National Forum)

Joanna Wright, 33, took her own life in 2007 after being diagnosed with M.E. less than year before and found there was little to help. Joanna left her partner, Ywain Prior, and her parents.  Her father said, "It bears out the serousness of M.E. and it does emphasise how important it is that more research is carried out.  It can strike the fittest of people.  It just added to Joanna's frustration that she couldn't do what she used to do." (Source: Eastern Daily News, England)

David Steven Wyle, 52, died on June 1st, 2005 after being diagnosed just three months before with a fast acting lung cancer.  David had suffered for years from CFIDS/ME.  He was a technical writer in Palo Alto, Los Angeles, Woodside, Los Altos and Mountain View, California.  A talented pianist, he was a kind, generous and loving man who made friends easily and was interested in a broad array of topics.  David was born in Connecticut but had lived in California since his childhood.  He leaves his sister, Karen and his parents, Charley and Bronia Wyle and is missed by many.  Memorial donations were directed toward research via the National CFIDS Foundation, Inc.  (Source: friends, family)

Melinda Vadas Ph.D. died on November 24, 2002 of causes related to CFIDS/ME, officially kidney failure. Melinda was in her early 50's and was a long-term sufferer of CFIDS/ME. A former professor of philosophy, she was an NCF member since our inception and a staunch and untiring advocate who worked to help others who suffered from the illness. She was, as one friend said, "One of our ministering angels" who was loved and appreciated by many for her love of her "kids," her willingness to help so many, and her warm heart that so readily embraced others. As one friend said, she was a "bright light in the dark world of CFIDS." Melinda, like so many, found her marriage failed after she got sick, yet she never stopped reaching out to others and was always one you could count on. (Source: CFIDSERS and NC Support Group)

Marie Vale: Date of death unknown. Died at age 47 from leukemia, now believed to be a complication of CFIDS/ME. Marie was the director of internal affairs for NASA with a high security clearance. She went to the NIH (National Institutes of Health) in 1982 for a diagnosis but was given none. In 1986, she got a copy of her records that indicated she had "Chronic Epstein-Barr Virus," now known as CFS. A few days before her death, she told a friend that this was being covered up from "very high up." (Source: close friend who now suffers from CFIDS/ME.)

Jackie Veeke died at age 39 on April 11, 2000 of a pulmonary embolus. Jackie was one of the founders of the Evanston, Illinois chapter of CFIDS/ME in the mid 80s and was a co-leader of the group as well as having accepted a voluntary position with the state group when she died. She was a registered nurse yet found, with her illness, many friends and family members did not understand her pain and suffering.

Judy Vaughn died on October 21, 2002 at age 62. Judy was a member of The National CFIDS Foundation since its inception. She died in a Boston hospital of cardiac arrest during a heart test. Judy was a long-term and severe victim of CFIDS/ME who had some members that were unsupportive, yet she remained a fighter to the end. She left two loving adult sons, Damon and Tyler, and her friend from childhood, Liz, who is a fellow sufferer who said, "When I was down, shewas right there for me." Judy will be missed by so many others whose lives she touched. She lived in Marshfield, MA.

Emily Green Weston, 77, died July 11, 2005.  Although Emily was born in Connecticut, she moved to Stockton, CA as a young girl.  After years as an elementary school teacher, her beloved career came to an end when she became disabled with CFIDS/ME.  Emily was instrumental in beginning the local support group and for years she was the telephone contact for the group, keeping careful notes on those who reached out to her. A member of National CFIDS Foundation, Emily left three children and four grandchildren and will be missed by so many whose lives she touched with her gentle manner.

Karen Yeadon died on May 41, 2003 at age 37 by her own hand after suffering from CFIDS/ME. She was the daughter of Joyce and Peter Yeadon and had been sick for 11 years. She was confined to her room at the end with very progressive symptoms and found it difficult to even watch TV or to eat. Karen is remembered for her wit, generosity, and concern for others. (source: ACT CFIDS/ME Society)

William J. Zimmer, 46, died in April of 2004 after being diagnosed with CFIDS/ME in the 1980's. The autopsy results were not conclusive and his physician, Anthony Komaroff, M.D., has sent samples for further investigation. Bill was born in Massachusetts, attended high school and college in Ohio and was an architect who also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. He lived in Brookline, MA. Bill enjoyed skiing, sailing and cycling before his illness overtook him. He leaves four sisters and two brothers as well as his parents. Bill was known as a special person and will be remembered for his courage and his compassion as well as his love of life. (Source: PWME/C friend)

Rudy M. Zingler, 66, died on July 8, 2006 after a long and courageous battle with CFIDS/ME and MCS.  Just a month before, he was rushed to the emergency room with very high blood pressure and had been continually getting worse.  Before the disease struck, Rudy was a machinist with Eastman Kodak and a semi-pro boxer.  He was an avid runner who ran in the Boston Marathon several times as well as an environmentalist and avid gardener with an organic garden and raising his own chickens.  He was heartened by the research being done for CFIDS/ME and participated in research trials.  A compassionate man, Rudy was always sharing information with his CFIDS/ME family hoping to help others.  Like many patients, his family did not stay together once the illness struck, but he retained a wonderful sense of humor.  He was a lover of the classics and poetry and was intuitive and warm yet practical with impeccable integrity.  Rudy is survived by a son, Rudy "Mike", a daughter Alana, a brother and sister and grandchildren as well as great grandchildren. He is keenly missed by many friends in the Kendall-Rochester, NY area whose lives he touched.  His memorial service had an overflow attendance of those who miss him and continue to keenly miss him today.

© 2000-2006 National CFIDS Foundation, Inc.

We request that anyone wishing to reprint this list include the copyright, our organization's name and address:  National CFIDS Foundation, Inc., 103 Aletha Rd., Needham, MA 02492-3931 USA.