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.