In the realm of chronic illnesses, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) stands as a formidable challenge, affecting millions worldwide. Despite the invisible nature of the illness, its impact is profound and pervasive, leaving many individuals bedridden and isolated.

However, amidst the struggle, a beacon of hope shines bright: Our ME Pyjama Party.

Uniting for Change: The ME Pyjama Party Movement

In the realm of chronic illnesses, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) stands as a formidable challenge, affecting millions worldwide. Despite the invisible nature of the illness, its impact is profound and pervasive, leaving many individuals bedridden and isolated. 

However, amidst the struggle, a beacon of hope shines bright: Our ME Pyjama Party.

Imagine a gathering where physical limitations dissolve, where camaraderie thrives, and where voices silenced by illness find resonance. The ME Pyjama Party embodies this vision—a global initiative that transcends geographical boundaries to foster solidarity and empowerment within the ME community.

At its core, the ME Pyjama Party is so much more than just an event; it’s a symbol of resilience and unity. 

It is crucial for the entire ME community to rally behind this movement:

1. **Visibility and Awareness**: The ME Pyjama Party serves as a platform to amplify the voices of those battling the illness. By getting involved, we shed light on the daily struggles, challenges, and triumphs of living with ME. Through social media campaigns, livestreams, and community events, awareness spreads like wildfire, dispelling preconceived ideas, misconceptions and fostering understanding.

2. **Community Building**: For many living with ME, isolation is a harsh reality. The Pyjama Party transcends physical barriers, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with others who understand their journey, forging friendships that provide solace and support in times of need.

3. **Advocacy and Action**: In a world where ME is often misunderstood and marginalized, advocacy is paramount. The Pyjama Party empowers individuals to become advocates for change, advocating for increased research funding, improved healthcare services, and greater societal support. 

Through collective action, we are able to amplify our voices, demanding recognition and justice for the ME community.

4. **Fundraising for Research**: Research is the cornerstone of progress in understanding and treating ME. The Pyjama Party serves as a fundraising powerhouse, rallying support for research initiatives aimed at unraveling the mysteries of the illness. Every dollar raised brings us one step closer to effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

5. **Celebration of Resilience**: Living with ME requires immense strength and resilience. The Pyjama Party celebrates this resilience, honoring the courage and perseverance of individuals who navigate the challenges of the illness with grace and determination. It’s a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart, inspiring others to face their own adversities with hope and courage.

In essence, the ME Pyjama Party is not just an event; it’s a movement—a movement fueled by passion, driven by purpose, and united in solidarity. It’s a reminder that, despite the darkness of this awful illness, there is light in community, strength in unity, and hope in collective action. 

So please join the party, don your pajamas, and let your voice be heard. 

Together, we can spark change, ignite hope, and pave the way for a brighter future for the entire ME community.

A black Labrador wearing red and white striped pyjamas lies on a bed, gazing softly into the camera. His expression is calm yet soulful. The text overlay reads: "My Nanny started The ME Pyjama Party to raise awareness of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, an illness which destroyed her life." The background is a cosy bedroom setting, reinforcing the message of comfort and support
A black Labrador wearing red and white striped pyjamas sits on a bed, looking off to the side with a gentle expression. The text overlay reads: "So to give my support I am wearing my PJs and giving her lots of love as today is a bad ME day for her 💔." The cosy setting includes soft bedding and a dimly lit room, creating a comforting atmosphere
A black Labrador with soulful eyes lies on a bed, resting his head on a soft surface. His red and white striped pyjamas are visible in the background, matching the comforting atmosphere. The text overlay reads: "Please help us ❤️", adding a heartfelt and emotional tone to the image
A woman lying in bed wearing a red top, looking directly at the camera with a tired but loving expression. A black Labrador is snuggled up close, resting its head on her chest. The background features a black metal bed frame, white bedding, and a grey lamp on a bedside table, creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere
Raising awareness left Alfie a little wiped out
A Disney-style princess with long, dark brown hair and big blue eyes sits gracefully in an ornate wheelchair with intricate gold detailing. She wears an elegant, flowing gown adorned with delicate blue embroidery and sparkling embellishments. A tiara rests on her head, and she is accompanied by two loyal black Labrador dogs wearing red collars. The background features a grand, softly lit palace interior with chandeliers, floral arrangements, and a fireplace, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Why I want to make a difference

The day of my diagnosis after months of waiting, I promised myself that no one would feel or have to go through what my family had gone through.

No-one would have to feel that loneliness or cry night after night being unable to handle the pain. For me I had yet to go through the worst of it which made me even more determined.

I wanted to talk to someone who really understood what I was feeling so I started reaching out to others on social media. I was so lucky to find Sian, Ali and Alan.

Finding them and being able to talk about everything made a huge difference. Alan would send me a quote or just a few kind words when he knew I was having a bad day and I truly wish I could tell him how much that changed my day but unfortunately Alan passed away .

I will never forget Alan and each time I see his picture in my phone I smile. It helps that the  pic is from the day we all dressed as princesses to help raise money for ME charities and he went all out including a wig beautiful tiara and wand.

I Felt Alone

Being bedridden isolates you from so much, but being bedridden with ME means that even the smallest task requires an enormous effort.

When I was first diagnosed with ME, I felt profoundly alone. I would read about incredible fundraising achievements, like marathons and charity walks, and while I admired their efforts, I couldn’t help but feel excluded. I couldn’t participate in a run or walk, and since I could no longer work, involving colleagues or workplace communities wasn’t an option. That’s when I started thinking about what I could do.

At that point, the only thing I could do was lie in bed in my pajamas. And then it clicked—why not start a Virtual PJ Party? An event that every single person could participate in, no matter how severe their symptoms were.

Join The ME Pyjama Party

The ME Pyjama Party is about raising awareness and giving a face to ME, not just another statistic. All you need to do to get involved is upload a photo of yourself in your pajamas to social media. If you’re able, you can also raise money for your favorite ME charity. But the heart of this event is to show the world the reality of living with ME, one picture at a time.

One day, I truly believe that #MEPyjamaParty will be trending worldwide, bringing awareness to the struggles and resilience of those living with ME.

Awareness Week

ME Awareness Week runs from May 8th – May 14th, 2025, and we’ll be celebrating on Monday, May 12th, which coincides with ME Awareness Day. If you’re not feeling up to posting a photo yourself, you’re welcome to send it to us, and we’ll share it on your behalf.

Severe ME Day

Severe ME Day is on August 8th, 2025.

We invite you to take a photo in your PJs and send it to us to be featured on our social media pages. We’ll gladly tag you to show your support and participation. If you’re posting directly to your own social media, please tag us and use #MEPyjamaParty so we can find and share your post.

Together, we can raise awareness and bring visibility to the realities of living with ME.

A fun and colourful digital illustration of six people dressed in various animal and mythical creature onesies, including a giraffe, penguin, unicorn, narwhal, dragon, and koala. They are posing playfully, celebrating together in a cheerful and lighthearted manner

making a difference

An illustrated poster promoting the ME Pyjama Party, featuring diverse characters in fun animal onesies and pyjamas. The text encourages people to wear PJs for ME Awareness Week and Severe ME Day, sharing photos on social media using #MEPJPARTY

The ME Pyjama Party

Get comfy for a cause! The ME Pyjama Party is a powerful yet simple way to raise awareness for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). During ME Awareness Week and Severe ME Day, we’re inviting you to wear your pyjamas in solidarity with those who are bed-bound due to this debilitating illness. How to Join: ✔ Take a picture in your PJs ✔ Post it on social media using #MEPJPARTY ✔ Tag friends & spread the message!

An illustrated image of a diverse group of family members and caregivers sitting together, representing the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Carer Community. The text above them highlights the supportive network for those caring for ME sufferers.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Carer Community

Caring for someone with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) can be challenging, but you are not alone. 💙 Join the ME Carer Community—a safe space for support, advice, and connection. Let's uplift one another. 🤝 #MECarers #ChronicIllnessSupport #YouAreNotAlone

A digital illustration of Alisha Whittam lying on a bed, smiling alongside her two black Labradors, Alfie and Archie. One dog is sitting happily while the other is sleeping. The image features the Alisha Whittam YouTube branding in the corner

My Youtube Channel

Welcome to my world! 💙 Join me, Alfie & Archie, as we navigate life with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, share our favourite moments, and spread positivity. Subscribe for real-life stories, disability awareness, and lots of dog love! 🐶✨ #AlishaWhittam #LifeWithME #BlackLabs