Montgomery County proclaims May 12 Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day

Montgomery County officials on May 13 read a proclamation recognizing May 12 as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) Awareness Day and urged greater research and support for residents living with the chronic condition.

Dr. Davis, who presented the proclamation on behalf of the county, described ME — also called chronic fatigue syndrome — as “a complex debilitating condition” that can cause severe exhaustion, cognitive impairment and post-exertional malaise. “This moment presents a critical opportunity to advance understanding of ME through shared research and advocacy,” Dr. Davis said.

Bridget Council, chair of ME Action Maryland, told the council she has lived with ME for decades and described the national "Millions Missing" campaign that highlights people who are homebound or otherwise unable to participate in daily life. “We raise awareness that most people need better support,” she said, thanking the county for the recognition.

The proclamation cited local impacts and called for increased government and private research funding and improved clinical education for frontline medical practitioners so diagnoses and care can be timelier and more accurate. The county noted a link between ME and illnesses following infection, including cases associated with long COVID, and urged continued scientific investigation and collaboration.

The council completed the ceremonial reading of the proclamation and took a photograph with the honorees. The reading was presented as a proclamation and no formal roll-call vote was recorded.