Two extraordinary events---the victory in the World Cup by the U.S. women's soccer team and the ongoing investigation of misspending at the CDC---continued to generate favorable news reports about CFIDS.

The media, which had written extensively about Michelle Akers' struggle with CFIDS, noted that instead of celebrating the team's victory, she was having fluids replaced intravenously. Most coverage described the extraordinary adjustments Michelle has made in her life to be able to play. She talked about her faith as "the cornerstone to my recovery," along with a strict diet and medical care that includes treatment for neurally mediated hypotension.

News coverage of the CDC situation got another boost in July when the General Accounting Office (GAO) began its own investigation, following up on a report by the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services. The Association issued a press release on July 13 about the GAO audit. Here are some highlights:

CDC coverage
July 21, Washington Post article details the admission of misspending and apology by CDC director Jeffrey P. Koplan and his promises to restore funds to CFIDS research and rebuild trust in the agency.

July 21, National Public Radio news report featured Gail Dahlen, president of Medical Professionals With CFIDS.

July 27, Reuters News Service runs full report on the CFS Coordinating Committee discussion of the scandal.

August 6, Washington Post article reports that Dr. Reeves, the agency "whistleblower," has filed a complaint alleging the CDC has cut his staff and denied him raises.
 
Michelle Akers coverage
July 8, St. Petersburg Times article describes Akers' half-time routine for CFIDS, which includes therapies to   raise her blood pressure. 

July 13, NBC TV in San Diego interviewed Michelle and told viewers they could get information about support groups through the Association.  

July 15, Inside Edition runs segment  introduced as "what it's like to live with CFS." Akers'  mother spoke about Michelle being virtually bedridden in the early days of her illness.               

July 15, Boston Globe editorial by Ellen Goodman pondered about Michelle, "...if this is CFS, how do I get it?" The Association wrote to correct Goodman, but the editorial was reprinted in many local papers. Member Ann Doscher's letter to the editor of her local paper in California was printed. She offered that "If Goodman wants to get CFS, I'll gladly give her mine. Free."

July 19, Sports Illustrated post-Cup coverage noted the toll Michelle's illness has taken on her game, forcing her to move from forward to defensive midfielder.

August 8, Florida Magazine article titled "Michelle's lessons" describes the inspiration her battle with CFIDS has provided for journalist Lisa Carden, who wrote "...for people who suffer in its grip, even getting out of bed in the morning is a challenge."

Other articles
June, American Health. A table titled "7 Difficult to Diagnose Diseases" lists CFIDS and the Association's toll-free number.