Madrid Hosts Event to Raise Awareness for Invisible Illnesses

The event, taking place at the Centro Cultural Casa de Vacas, aims to highlight Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and related conditions.

Generic image of a microphone on a podium during a public event.
IA

Generic image of a microphone on a podium during a public event.

On May 12, the Centro Cultural Casa de Vacas in Madrid's Retiro Park will host an event to raise awareness about conditions like Fibromyalgia and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, bringing together experts and affected individuals.

This initiative, coinciding with World Fibromyalgia Day, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Day, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Awareness Day, and Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Awareness Day, seeks to give a voice to realities often overlooked by the healthcare system and society. Admission will be free until capacity is reached.
The day will begin at 4:30 PM with an institutional welcome from representatives of patient associations, who will emphasize the urgent need to recognize these pathologies and improve care for those affected. At 5:00 PM, the short documentary Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Voices in the Shadow, produced by CONFESQ and premiered in October 2025, will be screened.
This documentary offers a profound insight into the lives of individuals with severe ME/CFS, a highly debilitating illness that causes extreme social isolation and severe physical and cognitive limitations. It includes patient testimonies and contributions from specialists from leading hospitals.

"This May 12, we ask that the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves be heard. Because no one should be invisible, this project reflects our line of work: to generate data, evidence, and proposals that contribute to positive and real changes in the lives of affected individuals. We still need more research, yes. But we also need to recognize what already exists and ensure it is applied in clinical practice and public policies."

a spokesperson for the organization
Following the screening, a discussion panel will be held with the participation of recognized professionals from the healthcare and associative fields. The round table will address the current situation of affected individuals, challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and potential improvements in socio-health care.
The event is promoted by CONFESQ, SFC-SQM Madrid, and AFIBROM, and has the institutional support of the Retiro District Municipal Board of the Madrid City Council. A representative from the General Directorate of Humanization, Security and Patient Care of the Community of Madrid and a representative from the Ministry of Health are expected to participate.