Use the workcamp program
Many church denominations throughout the country participate in the Ecumenical Workcamp Program for teenagers. The church has a list of teens who will work to earn money to pay for a week in the summer repairing houses for the poor. You pay very little for a huge return. For us, they grocery shop, clean our house and yard regularly, befriend our son who also has CFIDS, run errands, cook, wrap Christmas and birthday presents and much more. These teenagers have been exceptionally reliable and bring us much joy.
Gracie McNiff, Burke, Va.

Take baby steps
One thing that has helped my husband and me is to break things down into smaller, more manageable "baby steps." Here are some of our tips.

• Take several days to write letters or checks. This leaves plenty of time for getting the envelopes ready, writing and double-checking.
• Bake or grill food when you are able and freeze it in individual servings. I still cannot prepare a meal and eat it immediately after.
• Spread out holidays or gift-giving. We take a three-week period for birthdays and Christmas. We also give each other "love gifts" like massages and hugs, which don't require the visits to the store, wrapping and unwrapping that sap our stamina.
• Set limits on visiting times. When visiting our children and grandchildren, we set a "one hour limit" on time spent together and then rest so we can unwind and be ready for more.

Linnie Baker, Venice, Fla.

Get medications for free
I have found a web site from which you can apply for free or almost free prescription medications, www.themedicineprogram.com. There is a little red tape/paperwork involved, but it is definitely still worthwhile.

Criteria is low income, no insurance coverage for outpatient prescription drugs, inability to qualify for a government program that provides for prescription medication (such as Medicaid) and referral from a physician. Medications are sent to the patient's physician to be dispensed to them. The rules vary a little for each drug. If you don't have access to the Internet, you can call the program at 573/996-7300.
Bradley Freilich, Winter Park, Fla.

Release your anger productively
To diminish negative feelings, hit a punching bag or a big soft pillow. Yell "Take that!" or say any phrase that makes you feel a deep sense of release. Cry if you need to. Or laugh. Laughter is a great antidote to anger. You can't frown and laugh at the same time.

From 500 Tips for Coping with Chronic Illness, by Pamela D. Jacobs, MA. 1997: Robert D. Reed Publishers.

The success of this section depends on you. If you have a coping tip, a favorite quotation or a self-care treatment that has helped you, share it with others. Mark notes "One to One" and please include an e-mail address or a phone number.