Hi, my name is Kathryn Smith, I’m 27 and I’ve had M.E since August 2000. In 2002 I felt God challenging me about encouraging other Christians with M.E, which is why I have started this website.

Before I got ill I had just completed a gap year as a children’s worker in a church near Liverpool. I was about to start university, and life was pretty good. Then I got ill. At the time I didn’t realise that I would be ill for so long. I don’t remember much about the first year, except that someone sent me a card saying; ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight’ Proverbs 3:5-6. Underneath was written, “God Never makes mistakes!” That card is on my wall and it keeps me going every day, even now I am better.

God has taught me so much through this illness. I’ve realised that I need to rely on Him for everything because I can’t do things in my own strength. I’ve also learnt a lot about patience! He has given me an amazing family and friends who helped me through it all. I trust God so much more now than I did before, and I know that His plan for my life is much better than mine.

In September 2003 I finally started at the University of Kent. It was amazing to be there, but I needed God even more because I was still ill. I tried not to get too busy and to pace myself, but it was difficult because I wanted to be out with people after being at home for so long! I did my course over 4 years instead of 3 which took the pressure off a bit. I can see God’s hand in every part of my life and knowing that He has everything planned helped me to cope with this illness day by day. I am now better, have finished my degree and am working full time, but still need to rely on God every day.

I hope this website encourages you.