I find it very difficult to get excited about Christmas or any big event as they play havoc with my health.

I have ME/CFS therefore I am unable to walk very far, I have terrible fatigue and many pains. Stress also makes the illness worse. So for me Christmas is just a nightmare.

This year I am feeling worse than in previous years and have not been anle to get out shopping. I have done most of my shopping on line, which has been easier, but I have had all the delivery costs to pay.

I am unable to work because of my illness and am not able to claim any benefits, so I feel awful that I have to ask my husband for money to buy presents, he has even had to pay for his own and it rather takes the pleasure out of giving the presents.

This year we are spending Christmas with relatives. They are not very understanding of my condition and will expect me to be full of the joys and to have late nights etc. I am mainly going for my husbands benefit as it is boring for him being on his own with me, at least this way he will be able to have some fun.

It is now less than three weeks to Christmas and I still have to write and post my cards, some people are so organised and have done this already.

One good thing about visiting relatives is that I do not have to cook, but I feel that is would be less of a struggle to cook a meal for the two of us than being with 10 hyperactive relatives!

I have not written this because I want you all to feel sorry for me, I just thought it may be useful for others in a similar position.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.