The CFIDS Association of America recently surveyed medical professionals and researchers to determine attitudes toward and knowledge of CFIDS, as well as potential barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Data from this survey has provided much-needed new and compelling information to interest the media.

CPR team members and other persons with CFIDS (PWCs) can use the media materials for the survey developed by The CFIDS Association to help generate new media interest in their local area.

The kit includes:

• Cover letter  that can be tailored for your local media. The letter explains the importance of the survey results and provides contact information for The CFIDS Association of America.
• Press release that provides an overview of the survey project and its importance for the media.
• Survey fact sheet that highlights key findings and take-home messages.

You can cut and paste or print out all of these materials and send them to reporters in your area. You might also consider asking your family and friends for help--they may want to participate in your efforts to raise awareness of CFIDS. Sending copies of the survey materials to family and friends may also help them to better understand the illness.

If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also give a copy of the kit materials to local medical professionals to help emphasize the importance of CFIDS as a serious medical condition.

The CFIDS Association is happy to help arrange local media interviews about the survey if you receive requests for them. Contact Leah Moseley,  Public Relations Coordinator for The CFIDS Association of America, for more information.