Author Archives: Jennie Spotila

Speeding Things Up

Posted on December 10, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

In my previous post, I explained the definitions FDA used to determine that CFS is a serious or life-threatening condition. But the true significance of FDA’s decision is that it makes CFS treatments eligible for programs that speed up the … Continue reading →

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Serious Or Life-Threatening

Posted on December 6, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

During the stakeholder teleconference with FDA on September 13, 2012, Dr. Sandra Kweder said that FDA considers ME/CFS to be a serious or life-threatening condition. In the world of FDA regulations, this is a very important designation. Here’s the full … Continue reading →

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Insufficient Data

Posted on December 4, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

One of the most frustrating aspects of coping with CFS is the lack of definitive data. A PubMed search for “chronic fatigue syndrome” yields 4,877 results (as of today), but as a patient on the front lines I have to … Continue reading →

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Rest Medicine

Posted on November 28, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

I have been working really hard at resting. That probably doesn’t make sense, but I have been struggling to incorporate preemptive rest into my routine and it feels like a lot of work. The rationale for preemptive rest is that … Continue reading →

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Gratitude

Posted on November 20, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

We celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States on Thursday, and you may have seen the 30 days of gratitude meme on social media this month. I decided to share my gratitude in one post, and focus on aspects of my … Continue reading →

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FDA Webinar on Advocacy

Posted on November 16, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

Yesterday, the FDA hosted a webinar for the ME/CFS community on “Working Together for Change.” Their stated goal was to show what has been successful for patient groups in the past in working with FDA and other entities. The slides … Continue reading →

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In Concert

Posted on November 14, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

I went to a concert on Saturday night. I know, right? Given how sick I have been, and how much I have struggled after outings, a concert sounds pretty crazy. In fact, I haven’t been to a concert in many … Continue reading →

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CFSAC Testimony of Dr. Joan Grobstein

Posted on November 8, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

Dr. Joan Grobstein delivered these comments to the CFS Advisory Committee at its October 3-4, 2012 meeting. She has kindly given me permission to publish them here. Hello.  I’m Dr. Joan Grobstein.  I’m a physician. My topic is responsibility. Recently … Continue reading →

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Hurricane Drunk

Posted on November 6, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

No walls can keep me protected No sleep, nothing in between me and the rain And you can’t save me now I’m in the grip of a hurricane I’m gonna blow myself away (Florence + the Machine)   Hurricane Sandy … Continue reading →

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Puzzle Pieces

Posted on October 30, 2012 by Jennie Spotila

Let’s play a game. Imagine you have a large puzzle that makes an Impressionist picture of a colorful cottage-style garden. You can put it together as long as you have the picture on the box. First you assemble the lower … Continue reading →

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