The following information was initially distributed on June 10, 2025. When people talk about "Long COVID," they're often referring to very different conditions. We want to help you understand that Long COVID actually represents three distinct outcomes of COVID-19 infection—and knowing the difference can be crucial for getting the right care and support.   The Three Types of Long COVID   1. Organ and Tissue Damage: COVID-19 can cause lasting physical damage to organs like th

Summer's social calendar can feel like a minefield when you're managing chronic illness. Just as you've figured out how to keep your body cool, you're faced with a different kind of heat: social pressure. Family barbecues, outdoor weddings, patio dinners, and weekend festivals all come with the unspoken expectation that summer equals participation. But for people with ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, or Long COVID, summer social events can trigger serious symptom flares that last for da

When people talk about "Long-COVID," they're often referring to very different experiences. At the ME|FM Society of BC, we believe it's crucial to understand that Long-COVID isn't one condition—it represents three distinct outcomes of COVID-19 infection. While our society specifically supports those experiencing the post-viral ME type of Long-COVID, understanding all three types can help you better communicate with healthcare providers and access appropriate care. The Three T

Living with ME, FM, or Long-COVID can feel isolating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. At the ME|FM Society of BC, we know that building a strong support network and accessing respite care are essential for managing these complex conditions. What Does a Support Network Look Like? Your support network is unique to you and might include: Family and friends who understand your condition Others living with ME, FM, or Long-COVID Healthcare providers familiar with

At the ME|FM Society of BC, we know first-hand how challenging it can be to get a diagnosis and receive appropriate care for ME, FM, and Long-COVID. Many people in British Columbia face long delays—often years—before being diagnosed, partly because these illnesses are complex and not always well understood by healthcare providers. This post is designed to help you prepare for medical appointments, communicate effectively with your doctor, and advocate for the care you deserve

Emergency care is meant to be a safety net—a place to turn when symptoms escalate or a crisis hits. But for individuals living with ME , FM, or Long-COVID , visits to the ER can often feel more like an uphill battle than a lifeline. This post explores the unique challenges our community faces in emergency settings, shares lived experiences from across British Columbia, and offers practical tools to help prepare for and navigate these often difficult situations. Ongoing Strugg

Welcome back, myth-busters! In our second installment of the 'Dispelling Myths' campaign, we're diving deeper into the intricate world of ME/CFS and Long-COVID. Today, we're tackling two prevalent misconceptions that often leave patients feeling misunderstood and frustrated. Ever heard someone say, 'If you could do it yesterday, why can't you do it today?' or 'Isn't that just a middle-aged woman's condition?' Buckle up as we challenge these oversimplifications and shed light

BC Women's Hospital Complex Chronic Diseases Program presents a position statement regarding Functional Capacity Evaluations for people living with ME/CFS. “Healthcare providers need to keep in mind that when patients with ME/CFS exceed their individual capacities, PEM and serious deterioration of function may result”. "Based on current guidance from major institutions..., FCEs are not recommended for assessment of functioning in individuals with a diagnosis of ME/CFS." Read

BC Housing gives housing priority to applicants whose situation is urgent due to a health condition, domestic violence, or homelessness. BC Disability provides steps you can take if you have circumstances that make it especially pressing for you to get housing, including the use of the Supplemental Application Form . For more information, click here . "Navigating The System - BC Housing" is about halfway down the resulting webpage.

"I feel like this series is a life-line for people with ME or Long-COVID who are faced with healthcare and social support systems that provide so little access to knowledgeable help and meaningful support." Christina Wiebe Our new educational series, including 12+ helpful, informative modules, is now being sent directly, by email, to people across the province. Information is fact-based, up-to-date, and developed by experts, patients and caregivers. Includes friendly, easy

For an audio version of this article, click on the red SoundCloud arrow. Introduction and diagnosis Symptom management and referral ME W ebinar for physicians Complex Chronic Diseases Program FAQ page In order to support you with your primary care provider, our website hosts information on Introduction and diagnosis and Symptom management and referral . This information is aimed at health care providers. Our Introduction and Diagnosis page contains links to The National

With an influx of new members lately, we are highlighting some frequently accessed information resources. For our long-standing members, please note, we review these resources and update them when we can. Today, we’ll highlight Pacing resources and FAQs . The ME |FM Society of BC Pacing resources web page includes an introduction to pacing, guides to assist you in limiting post-exertional malaise (PEM), and suggested tools with which to enable your plan. Our FAQs web pag

For an audio recording of this article, click the SoundCloud link arrow. Summary notes of the May 12 webinar Accompanying survey Examining the Unmet Needs of British Columbians living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis On May 12, 2022, in recognition of International ME Awareness Day, the ME|FM Society of BC was pleased to host a virtual event: Sounds Like ME - a community conversation. During the event, Society Co-chair Hilary Robertson provided an update on Society work and

The connection between Long COVID and ME is evolving. In an effort to collect information on this developing topic, there is a new page to our website out today. ME and long covid resources - hosts a collection of published research on ME and Long COVID, collected accounts from researchers and experts, and a series of media pieces covering “long-haulers” developing ME/CFS. Please visit, read and share.

We are excited to announce a new page on our website! Pacing is one of the key management strategies for ME/CFS. Pacing Resources is a collection of high quality resources that support pacing education for people living with ME/CFS. This page lists educational materials such as, guides, tool suggestions and videos. We also encourage health care providers to learn more about pacing. We have highlighted pacing management on our Symptom management and referral (for health car

We have found two new helpful resources to share this week: 1) ME/CFS Survival Guidebook: The Art of Living with ME/CFS 2) Facets of ME: A launch of a new education series of the multiple aspects of living and managing ME/CFS 1) ME/CFS Crash Survival Guidebook: The Art of Living with ME/CFS The guidebook can be viewed online, downloaded, or printed – in color or black and white. This guidebook is designed for patients, for those allies supporting patients and for medical p