Heroes in the Shadows: Can a creative arts programme empower women with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Scotland to rebuild their identity, share narratives and spread awareness of their condition?
Abstract
This practice-based study explores an online, participatory, creative programme for women
living with M.E/CFS in Scotland. Nine participants were offered a series of five interactive
workshops exploring identity, connecting with fellow sufferers and reaching out to the wider
community to spread awareness of their condition. Their creative work and discussions were
analysed and concluded that a programme such as this is beneficial in empowering women
to explore their identity through creative work and successfully creates connections between
participants that continue past its conclusion.