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11
We were then introduced to Dr. Neil Fell, Director of Health and Rehabilitation for Total Fitness
Health and Fitness Clubs. Dr. Fell works with hospitals, local authorities and corporate clients to
provide a variety of exercise and physical activity programmes, as well as health promotion
initiatives to assist in a person's well-being and lifestyle enhancement Sue Strafford-Binks,
Regional Coordinator for the Northwest Region of FMA UK has worked closely with Dr. Fell to
develop an exercise and fitness program which is tailored specifically for Fibromyalgia patients.
After another short break to stretch stiff and sore muscles, we were introduced to
Dr. Yee Ho Chui, Clinical Lecturer in Rheumatology at University hospital, Aintree. Dr. Chiu's
studies involved an epidemiological study of chronic widespread pain in association with
psychological factors, sleep disturbance and pain threshold. Now, his main interests lie within the
management of Fibromyalgia, functional MRI imaging and setting up of a regional database of pa-
tients for further studies, particularly looking at outcomes. Dr. Chiu voiced the belief that regard-
less of the name Fibromyalgia and whether or not it exists as a condition, it is his duty to treat the
chronic widespread pain that his patients suffer.
At long last, it was time for lunch. Special diets such as gluten-free, dairy-free or vegetarian were
thoughtfully provided. We had a chance to stretch our legs before heading back to the
Conference.
Our next speaker was Dr. Nicola Adams, Reader in Health and Social Care at Liverpool John
Moores University. Dr. Adams has been involved in research in chronic musculoskeletal pain
conditions since 1989. Her research was focused on low back pain and from this she developed an
interest in Fibromyalgia. Of particular interest to her are non-pharmacological interventions,
including complementary and alternative therapies.
By the end of Dr. Adams presentation, the hard seats and sitting for several hours had taken their
toll and we returned to our hotel for a short rest. Feeling somewhat recovered the three of us set
out for an enjoyable trip on the "Ferry Across the Mersey". The next morning we headed out for
the long trek home feeling pleased to have learned that research is ongoing into both ME and FM.
It is encouraging to know that some dedicated scientists are trying to make a difference in the
quality of life for patients who suffer from the pain of Fibromyalgia and ME.
Janet Graham
Ferry across the
Mersey
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