Help Michael with ME/CFS Keep Studying Psychology

My name is Michael Weinberg. I am a 34-year-old South African Psychology student at the University of Cape Town (UCT), living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) since 2011 after a severe viral infection.

ME/CFS is a debilitating neuroimmune disease. I experience severe energy limitations daily - my body allows me only a few functional hours per day before overwhelming exhaustion, pain, and cognitive “crashes” force me to rest. Because of this, I am unable to work or generate any income, despite wanting to contribute.

I am currently in my second year of Psychology and, despite the intense physical strain, I have paced myself carefully and received distinctions for all my courses so far. I remain determined to finish this degree. Studying Psychology is not just a degree for me, it is deeply personal and purpose-driven. Living with ME/CFS for 14 years has shaped my deepest commitment: to one day qualify as a psychologist who supports others with chronic and debilitating illnesses. People like me are often unheard and invisibl...