Article: Gifts to make Severe ME sufferers smile posted in Merryn Crofts' memory by Smile for ME charity

[Sly Saint]

Thirty ‘Smile’ gifts have been posted in Merryn Crofts’ memory to fellow Severe ME sufferers.

Merryn, of Norden, sadly died in 2017, just days after her 21st birthday following a six-year battle against Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), a neurological illness which can cause immense and insufferable pain and affects approximately 250,000 people in the UK.

Merryn is just one of two people and the youngest in the UK to have a cause of death attributed to the devastating disease, which has been cruelly dismissed as ‘laziness’ for years.

Taking place on 13 May – Merryn’s birthday – Merryn’s Smile Day was created in 2019 with her family’s blessing by the Smile for ME charity, which has sent gifts – called ‘Smiles’ – to Severe ME sufferers and their carers.

Since 2019, 94 Smiles have been sent in Merryn’s name. The presents are not wrapped as opening presents with Severe ME can be difficult in many ways. The Smiles have included balloons, teddies, cosy accessories, flowers and pamper sets together with a rose quartz heart.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/ne...-merryn-crofts-memory-by-smile-for-me-charity

 

[Trish]

A nice idea. You can feel very alone living for years with very severe ME/CFS or caring for someone with very severe ME/CFS. I can imagine it would help a bit to know someone is thinking of you.

 

[JoanneS]

I was a recipient of a Merryn Smile a couple of years ago. It was the most wonderful surprise. The gift itself was so thoughtful, snuggly blanket/throw, bed socks, an eye mask, and a rose quartz heart (Merryn loved rose quartz). I was nominated by an online ME friend, and to know she thought of me was just lovely, it meant so much.