Damaging Dragon's Den's Latest Episode For ME Sufferers
Damaging Dragon's Den's Latest Episode For ME Sufferers
As someone who suffers from a chronic illness, specifically ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis), I was intrigued to watch this week's episode of Dragon's Den. I had heard that someone with the same condition as me was pitching their business idea on the show, and I was eager to see what it was.
But as I watched, I couldn't help but feel a sense of caution and sadness. The entrepreneur's product was aimed at people like me, who are living with a painful and debilitating chronic illness.
During the pitch, they claimed to have found a solution for ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis) recovery. While they did not explicitly state that this solution cured them, it was heavily implied as a major part of their "healing journey". This can be misleading and gives false hope to those living with ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis). There were no questions from the dragons about how the seeds worked, or what evidence the entrepreneurs had to back up their claims, just a comment on how the gold/silver was fancier than the normal brown seeds.
It is disappointing to see individuals taking advantage of people with chronic illnesses. The Dragon's Den episode showcased a product that seemed to offer a miracle solution but without any substantial evidence or scientific backing. This type of exploitation preys on the vulnerability and desperation of those living with ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis), promising a quick fix without considering the complexities of these conditions. ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis) has been stigmatised for over a hundred years and is said to be the most neglected illness in history.
Living with ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis) is a daily battle, both physically and emotionally. It requires constant management, adaptation, and support. To suggest that ear seeds, or any other single product, can provide a simple solution is not only misleading but also damaging. It perpetuates the idea that there is an easy fix, causing frustration and disappointment for those who have tried countless treatments without success.
Unfortunately, these are the kinds of people who see people's desperation in the ME community and then go on to take advantage. They capitalise on the hope that individuals with chronic illness hold onto, offering a glimmer of possibility without any solid facts.
For many of us living with ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis), managing our condition involves a multi-approach. It requires a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support. While alternative therapies can and do play a role, it is crucial that they are supported by evidence and sound reasoning.
I admire anyone starting a business and succeeding. I admire their recovery, but NHS data suggests only 5% of ME / CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis) patients will make a recovery and they could be one of the 5% we all dream of being. Thus, to imply that ear seeds ‘cured’ them, is immoral and irresponsible.
About me
I am a married mother of four children, in my mid 40's. I run a small business and enjoy writing, which is why I blog. My blog focuses on my experiences of living with chronic illnesses and disabilities such as ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis), spinal stenosis, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.