July '98, I remember so well;
That was the month when my life turned to hell.
I started to feel weak, tired, exhausted all day
And I couldn't understand why I was feeling this way.

I had felt pretty similar a few months prior,
When I suffered with Glandular Fever, ever so dire.
To try and cure this I had plenty of rest,
And visited the doctor when I wasn't my best.

I couldn't eat much, just because of the pain,
Even water was hard which was exactly the same.
I explained to the doctor feeling tired and so lame
So he gave me these tablets, I swear, as big as they came!!!

The screams from my throat must have shaken the earth,
From raining old Britain down to sunny old Perth.
And after all this, I was still feeling bad
And no answer from the doctor just made me so mad.

Anyway, after time had passed, and tears from my eyes
He mentioned ME and CFS to my surprise.
I was amazed and confused and just stayed there and sat,
Until I plucked up courage and said "What on earth's that?!!!?"

And ever since then I have suffered with hope,
It sometimes gets me down but I've managed to cope.
The good thing to know is I'm not alone
'cause there is all of you reading this at home

So have a good Christmas,
Don't have despair.
Just do what you can,
Best wishes, take care.

Matthew Geake
Age 16
Cornwall