This memorial quilt is made up of 150 crocheted squares, each representing one of the 150 people who have died from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.) in the UK between 2001 and 2021.
M.E. is a chronic illness that can be triggered by a viral infection. People with M.E. are often too sick to work or even leave the house. The forget-me-not flower is used in M.E. awareness as those with M.E. can be forgotten by society.
This quilt has been constructed using traditional granny square crochet techniques and is backed with a repurposed bedsheet.
Why Now?
There has been an increase in interest in M.E. and other energy limiting conditions since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people with long covid now fit the diagnositic criteria for M.E. However, there is little expertise in managing such conditions within the NHS. Many people are left without access to proper treatment and care which can lead to serious and life-threatening complications.
It is impoartant to raise awareness of the severity of M.E. and honour those we have lost. Sadly, many people have died in recent years who are not yet included in the official statitics.
On display
May is M.E. awareness month and the quilt will be on display at Creative Lab Salford from Saturday 17th May to Saturday 24th May 2025 and The Two Crows Art Studio from 26th to 31st May 2025.
Creative Lab Salford
First Floor, Quayside Media City UK, The Quays, M50 3AH
The Two Crows Art Studio
Ground Floor, The Met, Derby Hall, Market St, Bury BL9 0BW
Meet the artist
Katherine will be available at both studios during the exhibition and you can find out more on our Events page.
M.E Resources
There are several key resources available in the UK for individuals affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.):
- The ME Association provides expert support, research funding, and advocacy for people with M.E./CFS and Long Covid. They estimate that at least 250,000 people in the UK have M.E./CFS and offer literature, medical advice, and local support groups to help individuals manage their condition.
- AFME (Association for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) is an online resource offering information, advice, and support for M.E. patients and their families. They focus on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and tracking new developments in treatments and therapies.
- NICE Guidelines offer official recommendations for diagnosing and managing M.E./CFS in children, young people, and adults. Their guidance aims to improve awareness and understanding of the condition, ensuring earlier diagnosis and better care.
- Smile for M.E is a UK charity who send personalised gifts or ‘Smiles’ to people with M.E.
- Astriid is a UK charity that supports people with long-term health conditions in finding employment. They are particularly interested in helping people with energy-limiting conditions, such as M.E. and long COVID.
Other events during M.E. Awareness month
Tea Party for M.E.
An annual fundraising event for M.E. causes and charities where people host a virtual or in-person tea party. This year, it will be taking place on Sunday 18th May.
“Blue Sunday is a dedicated day for the M.E. community and their allies to come together to fundraise for M.E. causes, break some of the isolation we feel, and raise awareness of the illness that has blighted, impacted, and taken our lives. It successfully engages people from outside of ‘the M.E. bubble’ with a cause that is so often overlooked, stigmatised against, and belittled.” Anna
Find out more and how to get involved on The Slow Lane website the-slow-lane.com/blue-sunday/
About the artist
Katherine (she/them) is a textiles artist based in Greater Manchester, specialising in freeform crochet and 3D design.
With over 15 years of experience in crocheting, Katherine has dedicated the last decade to creating crochet pieces that raise awareness about chronic conditions. Their work often features birds and flowers, inspired by nature.
Find out more on our About page.
Crochet Connections 