May 12 is International ME/CFS Awareness Day. Nationwide protests taking place from May 8 to 12 are drawing attention to this serious chronic illness. Among other things, there is a strong call for better medical care and research.
The initiative was founded in July 2022 by Gritt Buggenhagen, who herself suffers from severe ME/CFS. The first major demonstration took place in front of the German Bundestag in Berlin. The campaign has since grown into a nationwide initiative. Since those affected by the illness are often too ill to leave their homes or get out of bed, lying on the floor is intended to represent their reality.
The Agency for Domestic Help (AfH) participated for the first time in several demonstrations in major cities—including Augsburg, Berlin, Bielefeld, Dresden, Frankfurt, Hanover, and Munich —to send a message alongside those affected.
Our Sleep Mask Promotion
During the demonstrations, over 300 sleep masks were distributed on-site to those affected and their families. These were sent in by followers and staff members. Each mask is intended to serve as a symbol of solidarity. Many of those affected suffer from sensory overload and increased sensitivity to light, and the sleep masks can help facilitate rest periods and reduce external stimuli.
About the disease
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS for short) is a chronic multisystemic disease that often develops following a viral infection. Typical symptoms include severe fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), cognitive impairments, and pain. In severe cases, those affected are often bedridden, must live in darkened rooms, and frequently require nursing care. An estimated 650,000 people in Germany are affected. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people affected has risen significantly.
To date, there are no widely available treatments, which is why patients usually require personalized treatment to alleviate their symptoms.
Support in everyday life
Since 2025, AfH has expanded its range of services to include support for people with ME/CFS and is familiar with the unique challenges of this condition. The Agency for Domestic Help offers people with ME/CFS support with household tasks and daily life. Our staff are specially trained to handle this condition and know what matters most. Learn more here about how our home care aides can support you:https://www.agentur-fuer-haushaltshilfe.de/me-cfs/
