I had CFS for 10 years (and I don't intend to ever get it again!). I was severely ill for 2 years, and then gradually was able to "enter the world again," slowly, over the next 8 years. I had a relapse at about year 9 of recovery -- because I trying to prove I was superwoman -- and then I became pregnant with my first child. I didn't find breastfeeding to be an extra drain on my resources, despite the fact that I was quite anemic after the birth. I would have been *much* more tired if I'd had to use formula -- sterilizing bottles, measuring amounts, and worrying about the third-rate nutrition I was giving my new baby. When you nurse, you get to lie (or sit) down, and the only preparation you need beforehand is getting a glass of water! Resting is the number one need for someone with CFS. I slept when the baby slept, and I slept with her so I could nurse her whenever she was hungry. (I, too, am a big believer in the family bed -- why are people so uptight about this?!) Psychologically, I think breastfeeding was very healing for me, too. It gave me new faith in my body's strength, which I had come to totally distrust. And the bonding with my baby was incredibly rewarding, as all us lactnetters know! It made me so happy! My heart goes out to this mum. CFS is incredibly frustrating, especially since you don't know if you'll ever get better. I had CFS before it was even a known syndrome, which was hard because the docs told me there was "nothing wrong with me" -- I was just depressed, stressed, etc. They sent me to a psychiatrist, which was reasonable, but she sent me back to them! It's like having your arm cut off, and everyone's telling you that your arm is fine. By the way, I now have 3 kids, a half-time job, and I jog/do aerobics/ lift weights (staying in shape really helps). I don't usually get just tired -- I get exhausted. So I still have to watch it and get enough rest, but I'm proof that you can get better from CFS. The "cure"? Really boring: rest, rest, rest. And gradually push your physical limits a little farther, so that you build up stamina, but don't push yourself back to total exhaustion again. I wish this woman, and everyone with CFS, good health! -- Andrea C., science writer/ editor; Victoria, Canada