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Fall 2002

Reader Survey Results: New Features Coming to the Chronicle
By Mark Giuliucci

Thanks to the hundreds of people who filled out the Reader Survey forms that appeared in the spring issue of the Chronicle. I have read each one, and appreciate the time and effort you’ve taken to share your opinions.

Now it’s time to act on your ideas. We’ve decided to make a number of changes to the Chronicle in response to the survey. It’s my sincere hope that these changes will make the Chronicle even more informative, responsive and relevant to our members and others in the CFIDS community.

Snapshots of CFIDS
More than half of the surveys requested more stories about people with CFIDS (PWCs). Starting with this issue, we will devote a four-page pullout in the center of the Chronicle to profiles of PWCs, plus artwork, writings and tips from the people in our community. Snapshots sections will run in every other issue, using four additional pages.

Alternative medicine
Many readers are frustrated with conventional medical treatments and are seeking other ways to relieve their symptoms. But alternative and complementary therapies can be controversial — and sometimes dangerous. Starting immediately, the Chronicle will focus on one therapy per issue, including the possible benefits, drawbacks, risks and research behind it. See p.21 for a story on bodywork treatments and CFIDS.

Research coverage
The Chronicle has always presented the most accurate, up-to-date coverage of CFIDS research issues possible. Readers have suggested a few changes to make our Research News section even better. Starting with this issue, we will include a CFIDS glossary that explains key research terms in everyday language.

In addition, we will feature periodic updates on trials of CFIDS-related drugs. Though these trials can last years, readers tell us how important it is to know exactly where the drug tests stand and when to expect results.

Hot topics
The Readers Forum page has always been available to members who want to express their opinions. Starting with this issue, we are going to offer discussion topics in hopes of creating focused discussions on issues important to the CFIDS community.

Q & A format
Earlier this year, the Chronicle began running question-and-answer interviews with prominent CFIDS doctors and researchers. Readers have responded to these stories very positively. So we’re going to make the Q & A sessions a regular part of the Chronicle. We are lining up a series of interview subjects; if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

Disability questions
Acquiring and keeping disability benefits is a key concern to many PWCs. The Chronicle has featured numerous stories about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), long term disability (LTD) insurance and other issues. Many readers suggested creating a regular column that addresses disability questions.

In response, we have created a pool of disability experts who will offer advice on winning, and holding on to, benefits. If you have a question, please send it to the address below. We regret that we cannot answer every letter, and the Association cannot recommend individual attorneys.

I hope that you will enjoy the changes to the Chronicle. As always, I invite your comments, suggestions, criticism and thoughts. It’s my goal to make each issue better than the one before. I hope you’ll agree that we’re heading in the right direction.

Send your thoughts to: The CFIDS Association of America, P.O. Box 220398, Charlotte, NC 28222-0398, Attention: Chronicle editor.

Mark Giuliucci is editor for The CFIDS Association of America.