"When I was 43 I was struck down by the debilitating symptoms and restricted lifestyle imposed on me by M.E.
Initially I had been very severely affected but even though more recently things had improved a bit, I still spent most days on the sofa or bed and was only able to leave the house for a few hours at most once a week, relying on my wheelchair for outside mobility.
Although like many others I found this hard to accept and had tried to regain my health nothing provided the answers for which I yearned, and the cure remained elusive for twelve years.
Well that was until by chance, at the age of 55, I heard about Phil Parker and his LIGHTNING PROCESS. Having read Ruth's testimonial and then checking out Phil's web site I felt inspired to phone for more information. Within the hour I had made the necessary 3 appointments (on consecutive days) with him.
The first session covered so much ground about how I had got and stayed so unwell- everything I learnt in that session made so much sense and was in precisely in keeping with the way I was beginning to view the illness.
That session also taught me the tools to recover.
That afternoon I went shopping with my husband for hours. I decided I wouldn't need my wheelchair- not only on that day, but ever again, and when I got home that evening I stayed up hours later than I had in years.
Today is day 2 of the process and I have turned my back on M.E forever. I have the tools now to know that I can free myself from it's vice-like grip, simply by radically changing my thought processes- but changing them in way that differs so much from the "just think positively" approach that never really seemed to work.
I already regard myself as having recovered and the future glows brilliantly ahead of me. It's amazing! Now I am in control of my life. I really feel I have come alive in 2005!"
Evelyn phoned a week later to add
"When we last spoke I created a list of things to do as a measure of my ability to function normally. Well I'm pleased to report that I have done all the things on my list, and friends, family and neighbours have all noticed that I'm looking different and am much more calm.
I've also noticed that I've been able to be so much more spontaneous. I've been to places that have been off limits to me for years as they're not wheel chair accessible. Thanks Phil"
Evelyn wrote in with this after a month.
"Well, one month on and I'm delighted to say that my progress continues. After all these years I am having difficulty in staying indoors and now go out twice most days!! The freedom and pleasure of being around other people is overwhelming.
It is wonderful to be able to spend more time with my husband who has been a great support to me. Now we are returning to a more equal relationship and I feel I can begin to take much of the load off his shoulders. We have such plans for the future, and he says he feels he has a new wife!
I am rapidly regaining my confidence and independence - driving and socialising once more. Oh, the thrill of having a really good long chat with a friend!
My legs are getting stronger and I now cope easily with supermarket shopping. Housework too is a joy, which of course leaves my husband extra time for those DIY tasks.
Roll on summer - oh to go on holiday again! The only problem is...where to go first?
Many thanks again Phil - I'm busy spreading the word about your Lightning Process."
Evelyn wrote in with this after 3 months.
"Well Phil, I'm so sorry that this update on my recovery has taken such a long time long to arrive - as you've no doubt guessed I've been really busy!!
Amazingly this morning I mowed the lawn! Really? Was that me? I've also had a walk in the park and completed a supermarket shop. The list goes on, what a wonderful day, and life continues to improve.
For half a day a week now I do some voluntary work, and its so good to feel of use to others once more.
When my father was recently in hospital I was able to visit him twice a day, and at last feel that I can resume my role as a supportive daughter. Needless to say he is delighted with my progress too.
My birthday also arrived and instead of spending it with the TV I had a meal out in the evening with dear friends, and had a WONDERFUL time.
In the early days of ME I felt that I was living a nightmare and hoped to wake up for a better life. Now I am living that life.
I was just delighted to hear from Pauline it was very emotional all round!
MANY thanks again Phil,"
Evelyn.
Evelyn wrote in with this a 15 months after her first session.
Now this just goes to prove that life continues to improve after the Lightning Process, and that age is no barrier! I celebrated my 57th birthday a few days prior to having this photo taken (4 days ago) onboard the P&O Liner Arcadia as we sailed out of Gibraltar.
