Dr Rosamund Vallings is a leading expert in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E. and has been assisting those with this condition for more than 40 years. Her books have helped thousands of people around the world. In 2008 she was awarded Membership of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This book is the distillation of her many years’ experience as a doctor diagnosing and treating this condition. Dr Vallings talks to NZ Booklovers.
Tell us a little about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
CFS is an illness affecting the immune system, usually triggered by a viral illness. There is ongoing immune activation causing a number of symptoms.
What inspired you to write this book?
There was a need for something straightforward and up to date for those with the illness, to help with understanding, and as a guideline for health professionals
What research was involved?
I have always kept abreast of the current research into this illness. The research progresses very rapidly.
What was your routine or process when writing this book?
I tend to “write’ chapters as I am driving along or out walking, gardening etc. Then I have a weekly writing session to put it down on the computer.
It is a revised edition, so what is different from the original book?
It brings it up to date as research moves on very fast.
What do you hope people will take away from reading your book?
Sensible guidance for health care and understanding of the science of the illness and health in general.
What did you do to celebrate finishing the new edition?
Breathe a sigh of relief that it’s done! Start planning my next writing project.
What is the favourite book you have read so far this year and why?
I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes – a really gripping account. (a terrorism thriller)
What’s next on the agenda for you?
A South Island outdoor holiday then continuing writing my autobiography, updating my genealogy records and keeping abreast of CFS/ME research.