Sir Sajid Javid responds to The Times article “Streeting must act to give ME patients the care they need ” posted on Oct 9.
Letter
Sir, I strongly support Sean O’Neill’s Thunderer on the tragic loss of his daughter, Maeve, to myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and the systemic neglect of this debilitating illness. For too long people with ME have been left behind. Two years ago, I launched the first cross-government strategy on ME but the final version remains unpublished by the government.
The coroner’s report highlights a lack of research, medical training and care provision. The government must act urgently. There are hundreds of thousands of people affected by ME, many of whom are left without proper treatment and support. Wes Streeting and Andrew Gwynne now have the power to introduce the strategy and give this neglected community hope. Maeve’s death must not be in vain. It is time for decisive action to ensure that no more lives are lost.
Sir Sajid Javid
Former health secretary
Please see the links to the letters and the original article below (paywalled)