January 2026
Hello and welcome to a new year of monthly newsletters. Hope you have had the best January possible.
Smiles
10 Smiles were sent to both ME sufferers and carers of all ages this month. All chosen and personalised to fit each person’s likes and interests. Some of the items sent this month included book vouchers, bookmarks, hot water bottle, blankets, pillow, socks, notebook, pens, card making kits, origami, cross stitch kits, crystal lamp, forget-me-not seeds, essential oil, pamper gift set, relaxing eye masks, a puzzle, mug, hot chocolate, fudge and chocolate. 
Special touch
In our Smiles we include a token item donated by someone affected by ME as a special touch from our community. Included in the Smiles sent this month was a handmade clay ornament donated by Tara. Thank you Tara for your kind support. 
“Thankyou ever so much for my beautiful surprises I received yesterday. I was completely over the moon and felt very special that my husband had nominated me to receive a smile. From my heart to yours, xxxxxx”
“My wife loved her parcel .. thanks so much”
“Hi my name is Harry I am 14 years old and diagnosed with ME for the past 4 years. It effects me so much I really struggle day to day tasks as going to school and out with my friends. So this Smile parcel is just what I needed thank you mam and dad”
“My Mum received her smile in December, she was so surprised and grateful. Thankyou so much for all the thought that went into each gift, she couldn’t believe it when she opened the jigsaw and it was of Scarborough – her favourite place”
Share a story
Share a story is a segment in our monthly newsletters where we share a story from someone affected by ME to help raise awareness and remind others they are not alone. If you are interested in writing a piece for us please get in touch: contact@smileforme.org.uk
This month’s share a story is a poem called The Problem with M.E by Nicola L Meekin.
The Problem with M.E
Oh, to be able to plan,
without planning,
for the endless “what if”,
and “just incase.”
To be able to run free,
without resting,
and having to factor in, how to pace.
To be able to dance, without aching.
What I would give, to get that chance.
And a bit of extra juice in the battery,
for wining, dining and romance.
To see a whole day, without crashing.
Completely recharged, and battery full.
All bright eyed and bushy tailed,
with the energy and strength
of a bull.
Living a life without limits,
Is not destined for me, it seems.
Though, I’ll continue to push,
then rest when I have to.
I’ll endeavour to have faith,
in these old pipe dreams.
Poetry by Nicola L Meekin
Smile of the month
What’s made you smile this month? Each month we ask this question on social media and we love hearing the responses. We hope by sharing some of your smiles it can help others to find a smile too. 
Thank you’s
A big thank you to everyone who has supported us and donated this month. We are so grateful for the kindness and generosity you show us. It means such a lot because it enables us to continue sending Smiles to those affected by ME.
Thank you for taking the time to read our newsletter