Florida Congressman Supports Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee Charter

Florida Congressman Clay Shaw wrote to Secretary Michael Leavitt of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, encouraging him to renew the charter of the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee, which is set to expire on September 5, 2006. Rep. Shaw wrote the letter on behalf of P.A.N.D.O.R.A. (Patient Alliance for Neuroendrocrineimmune Disorders Organization for Research and Advocacy, Inc.) and the CFIDS Association of America, Inc., who have joined efforts to ensure the renewal of this important charter.

The CFS Advisory Committee advises and makes recommendations to the Secretary of Health and Human Services on a broad range of topics including:

1. the current state of knowledge and research about the epidemiology and risk factors relating to chronic fatigue syndrome, and identifying potential opportunities in these areas.
2. current and proposed diagnosis and treatment methods for chronic fatigue syndrome.
3. development and implementation of programs to inform the public, health care professionals, and the biomedical, academic and research communities about chronic fatigue syndrome advances.

P.A.N.D.O.R.A. is asking Floridians who live in Rep. Shaw’s district to thank him for taking action and writing this letter. His office only accepts e-mail sent through the House mail site. You will be asked to enter your state and zip code, then your contact information. It’s important to let our representatives know that their efforts on our behalf are appreciated.

Sources: E-mail from P.A.N.D.O.R.A.; U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee Charter.