Talk with ME

Living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis as well as Endometriosis, has provided me with not only a firsthand understanding of life with these severe conditions but also a burning desire to bring about change and offer support for those afflicted as well as their families.

My life with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis specifically is filled with challenges those everyday challenges have been the catalyst for my commitment to raise awareness among the public and within the ME community.

A minimalist logo featuring two overlapping speech bubbles, one pink and one teal, with three dots inside each to symbolize conversation. Below the speech bubbles, bold black text reads "TALK WITH M.E", representing an initiative focused on discussions surrounding Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E).
A digital illustration of a laptop screen displaying a virtual meeting with nine diverse participants in a grid layout. Each person is shown in a simple, modern flat design, with different hairstyles, clothing, and expressions, symbolizing connection and communication in an online space.

Talk with ME – A Safe Space for Connection

💙 Because ME is lonely, but you don’t have to be alone.

Living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) can be incredibly isolating. Many of us spend long periods at home, struggling with symptoms that make it difficult to socialise or connect with others who truly understand. But thanks to technology, we don’t have to face ME alone.

Talk with ME is a weekly virtual call where people with ME can come together in a safe, understanding, and pressure-free space. Whether you want to share your experiences, listen in, or just feel connected to others who “get it,” this is a place where you are always welcome.

How It Works

🖥️ Virtual Calls, No Pressure
Join us via Zoom (or another accessible virtual platform). There’s no obligation to turn your camera or microphone on—you can participate in whatever way feels right for you.

🤝 A Supportive, Friendly Environment
This isn’t a formal meeting—just a relaxed, friendly space to chat, share, and connect with others who understand the challenges of ME.

📅 Weekly Calls at a Time That Works for You
We aim to run calls at different times to accommodate different energy levels and time zones. If you’re interested, sign up to be notified of upcoming calls.

🛏️ Join from Bed, Sofa, or Anywhere
We understand that ME symptoms vary daily. Whether you’re in bed, wrapped in a blanket, or just listening with your eyes closed, you’re always welcome.

Text reads - You are not alone in this Next to text is a drawing of a person with their knees held up to their chest

Why Join a Call?

✔ Because ME is isolating – Talking to people who understand can make all the difference.
✔ Because there’s no pressure – You can just listen if that’s all you have the energy for.
✔ Because small connections help – Even short conversations can bring comfort and support.
✔ Because technology allows us to be together – Even when we can’t leave our homes.

💙 ME may keep us apart physically, but it doesn’t have to keep us disconnected.

How to Join

📢 Sign up here to get reminders and Zoom links for upcoming calls:

📅 Upcoming Sessions:
➡ Sunday 6th April 2025 / 7.30pm GMT 🇬🇧

📲 Follow us on social media for updates.

Facebook – TalkwithMECFS

Twitter – Talkwithmecfs

Instagram – Talkwithmecfs

✨ You’re not alone. Let’s talk, listen, and support each other—one call at a time. ✨

💙 Join the next Talk with ME 💙

 

Why Should You Join a Talk with ME Call?

💙 Because ME is lonely, but you don’t have to be alone.

Living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) often means spending long periods at home, sometimes in bed, unable to socialise in the way others do. The isolation can be overwhelming, but with Talk with ME, you can connect with people who truly understand—all from the comfort of your own space.

Why Make the Effort to Join a Call?

🛏️ Because Connection Matters

  • ME can make in-person socialising difficult, but talking to someone who gets it—even for a few minutes—can help reduce loneliness.
  • A simple check-in can lift your spirits on tough days.

🎧 Because There’s No Pressure

  • You don’t have to talk, turn on your camera, or even stay for the whole call—just being there can be enough.
  • You can listen, type in the chat, or simply be part of the space in whatever way feels right for you.

💬 Because You’ll Be Understood

  • Unlike general support groups, everyone here has ME, so there’s no need to explain your struggles or justify how you feel.
  • It’s a space where you are heard, respected, and never judged.

💙 Because Small Interactions Can Make a Big Difference

  • Even if you don’t have much energy, just hearing familiar voices or seeing kind messages in the chat can make you feel less alone.
  • Many people with ME say they feel invisible—this is a chance to be part of something, even if just for a short while.

🔄 Because Every Day with ME is Different

  • Some days, you might feel too exhausted, but on a better day, a Talk with ME call could be a lifeline to connection.

Even if you only join once in a while, you are always welcome.

 

What People Say About Peer Support

📢 Studies show that peer support reduces feelings of isolation, increases emotional well-being, and helps people cope with chronic illness.
📢 Over 70% of people in chronic illness communities say that simply talking to others who “get it” makes them feel less alone.
📢 Connecting with others can improve mental health and help with managing the emotional impact of long-term illness.

What If I Don’t Have the Energy to Join?

That’s okay. There’s no expectation or commitment—you can join when you feel up to it.

  • Some people join and just listen while resting.
  • Some people come for 5 minutes and then leave—that’s okay!
  • Some just drop a quick “hello” in the chat—and that’s enough.

🔹 No pressure. No expectations. Just a space where you can be you.

How to Join a Call

📅 Weekly calls at flexible times
📍 Join from anywhere—your bed, sofa, or even with your eyes closed
💙 No camera or mic required—only participate in the way you feel comfortable

You are not alone. ME is tough, but together, we can make it just a little easier.

 

A digital illustration titled 'Things That Help Me Feel Better on a Bad ME Day.' It features six comforting activities represented by cute illustrations: taking a bath (a woman in a tub), wearing clean pyjamas (a person in blue PJs), warming up with cozy socks, getting lots of rest (a comfy bed), getting comfortable (pillows), and cuddling a black Labrador (Alfie). The background has soft clouds, and the design has a warm and calming aesthetic

making a difference

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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

Recent blogs

This journey taught me the power of resilience and I hope that by sharing my experiences good and bad I can raise awareness and offer support to those facing similar challenges.

Latest Videos

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We got a Puppy

A stylish YouTube thumbnail featuring a newly decorated bedroom with soft grey and white tones, plush cushions, and decorative lighting. The text overlay reads "Bedroom Makeover – Hubby Surprised Me!", hinting at a heartfelt transformation

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A YouTube thumbnail featuring a rechargeable lint remover with a sleek white design, LED display, and multiple speed settings. The text highlights the 3-speed adjustment, Type-C charging, and 2500mAh battery, showcasing its key features.

The best rechargeable lint remover (and why you need one)

A playful YouTube thumbnail featuring a stylized illustration of a woman and her black Labrador sitting on a bed, with a basket of apples. The text reads "My Dog Loves Apples", surrounded by floating apples and a cute cartoon apple character.

My Dog loves apples - The uncut version

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

Join The ME Pyjama Party 2025!

 

✨ Get Comfy. Raise Awareness. Make a Difference. ✨

The ME Pyjama Party is back for 2025, and we want YOU to be part of it! This fun, inclusive awareness campaign shines a light on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)—a severely misunderstood and debilitating illness affecting over 250,000 people in the UK alone.

Many people with ME spend most—or even all—of their lives in bed due to extreme exhaustion, pain, and sensory sensitivities. By wearing your pyjamas and sharing your support online, you can help raise awareness and stand in solidarity with those living with this invisible illness.

How to Get Involved

Taking part in the ME Pyjama Party is simple! Here’s how you can make a difference:

1️⃣ Wear Your Pyjamas for the Day

Whether you’re at home, at work (if allowed!), or even out and about, put on your PJs to start a conversation about ME.

2️⃣ Post a Selfie with #MEPyjamaParty

Snap a photo or video in your pyjamas and share it on social media using:
📢 #MEPyjamaParty | #MEAwareness | #CanYouSeeMEnow
💙 Tag us so we can share your post!

3️⃣ Create a Video

Share why you’re taking part and what ME awareness means to you.

  • If you have a personal connection to ME, this is a powerful way to spread awareness.
  • Let’s educate and inspire more people to learn about ME!

4️⃣ Get Your Friends & Family Involved

The more people who join, the greater the impact we can make!
🏡 Encourage your family, workplace, or local community to take part.

5️⃣ Support the Cause

We’re launching an exclusive ME awareness-themed pyjama collection to support our efforts.
🛍 [Shop Here] (Insert Link) – Every purchase helps spread the message!

6️⃣ Spread the Word

If you’re a content creator, blogger, or part of an organisation, we’d love to collaborate!
📩 Get in touch with us to help amplify the message.

 

A fun and colourful digital illustration promoting the ME Pyjama Party for ME Awareness Week and Severe ME Day. The design features a large, sleepy bear in blue-striped pyjamas and a nightcap, stretching with a yawn. Surrounding the bear are six people dressed in various animal onesies, including a dragon, panda, giraffe, bear, unicorn, and a blue starry suit. The border is decorated with vibrant watercolour balloons in pink, blue, green, and yellow. The text reads: "Join us in your PJs for ME Awareness Week & Severe ME Day - ME Pyjama Party.

Why Pyjamas?

For most people, pyjamas are a symbol of relaxation and comfort. But for many people with ME, they represent a life spent in bed due to extreme fatigue, pain, and mobility limitations.

🛏 Did You Know?

  • 1 in 4 people with ME are severely affected and may be bedridden for months or years.
  • ME is a leading cause of long-term disability, yet it remains one of the least understood chronic illnesses.
  • Many carers and family members feel isolated due to the lack of awareness and support.

💙 By wearing your pyjamas and raising awareness, you’re showing the world that people with ME deserve to be seen, heard, and understood.

A Disney-inspired cartoon-style illustration of a woman with long dark brown hair and bright blue eyes lying on a bed, smiling warmly at two black Labradors wearing red collars. One dog has a tag labeled "Alfie," and both appear happy and content

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What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

According to the NHS Website, Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term illness with a wide range of symptoms. The most common symptom is extreme tiredness

For more information please visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-cfs/

People with ME/CFS have fatigue that is very different from just being tired. The fatigue of ME/CFS:

  • Can be severe.
  • Is not a result of unusually difficult activity.
  • Is not relieved by sleep or rest.
  • Was not a problem before becoming ill (not life-long)

Worsening of ME/CFS symptoms after physical or mental activity that would not have caused a problem before illness. This is known as post-exertional malaise (PEM).

Sleep problems.

Many but not all people with ME/CFS have other symptoms.

Pain is very common in people with ME/CFS. The type of pain, where it occurs, and how bad it is varies a lot. The pain people with ME/CFS feel is not caused by an injury. The most common types of pain in ME/CFS are:

  • Muscle pain and aches
  • Joint pain without swelling or redness
  • Headaches, either new or worsening

Some people with ME/CFS may also have:

  • Tender lymph nodes in the neck or armpits
  • A sore throat that happens often
  • Digestive issues, like irritable bowel syndrome
  • Chills and night sweats
  • Allergies and sensitivities to foods, odors, chemicals, light, or noise
  • Muscle weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Irregular heartbeat
Information is taken from The CDC Website https://www.cdc.gov/me-cfs/symptoms-diagnosis/symptoms

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis does not have a cure.

Find a Dr or Consultant who listens to you is the first step

It is a manageable condition and depending on the severity of your symptoms the more difficult this can become.

I advise learning to listen to your body and what it is telling you. If you feel tired rest and if you feel pain find a solution to reduce that pain, this could be through pain medication prescribed by your Dr.

I am not saying that finding a Dr who listens or listening to your body is going to be easy as this illness is incredibly complex for some and manageable for others.

Having a Dr who listens to you or reads about the latest drug that sufferers are recommending can take a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety from the sufferer.

It would be best for me to point you to the above question What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis? 

Most pages list the illness as ME/CFS or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or sometimes even Systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID).

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