chronic fatigue syndrome

"In 2009, Tessa Brunton experienced the first symptoms of myalgic encephalomyelitis. [This book] recalls the next eight years of her life--largely housebound--with honesty, a pointed wit, and a lively visual imagination"--Provided by publisher.

Ill and housebound, fifteen-year-old Kasia Novak spends her time making up stories about the outside world--so no one believes her when she sees a mysterious girl in the window across the road.

The author describes her struggles with chronic fatigue syndrome, argues that medical science is ignoring the plight of those suffering from the condition, as well as similar disorders such as Gulf War syndrome, fibromyalgia, and multiple chemical sensitivity, and examines issues surrounding these illnesses and their lack of treatments.

When Carmie discovers that her divorced mother, who suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, was once a well-known Malibu surfer, she reevaluates the way she views her mother and herself.

The author shares his personal story of living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and offers guidelines for coping with the disease, information on related disorders, a review of medications and treatments, and a listing of support groups, organizations, and associations.