On September 23, the SFC-SQM Madrid Association commemorated its 15th anniversary at the iconic Casa de Vacas, located in Retiro Park. This event, which brought together partners, collaborators, and figures from the social and healthcare sectors, celebrated more than fifteen years of dedication to supporting people with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS).
The event began at 5:30 p.m. and featured the participation of Andrea Levy, the Councilwoman President of the Retiro Municipal Council, and Celia García, the Director General of Humanization, Safety and Patient Care of the Community of Madrid. Both highlighted the importance of associations in creating welcoming spaces and providing essential information for patients. María López Matallana, president of SFC-SQM Madrid, gave an emotional summary of the achievements attained and thanked the unconditional support of numerous individuals and organizations.
During the ceremony, honorary mentions were awarded to individuals who have been fundamental to the growth of the association. Among the awardees, the standouts were Carmen Lozano Moya, president of SFC-SQM Castilla-La Mancha, and healthcare professionals Cristina Oter Quintana and Irene Blanco. A particular mention was devoted to RTVE's program 'Comando Actualidad' for its contribution to making these diseases visible.
Javier Caballero, on behalf of the members, expressed his gratitude for the sense of community and visibility that the association has promoted. The researcher Virginia Gasion highlighted in her speech the importance of the association as a reference for patients and doctors.
The event also had an artistic touch with the presentation of the Tespis theatre group, directed by Nuria Romero. The day concluded with an aperitif that allowed attendees to enjoy a moment of camaraderie and celebration.
The urgency of continuing to work together to improve the recognition and treatment of ME/CFS and SQM was also underscored, highlighting recent psychological care programs and future awareness campaigns. With more than 7,000 advisory consultations carried out, over 100 appearances in the media, and the development of a pioneering protocol for the care of SQM in emergency departments, the association reaffirms its crucial role in defending patients' rights and their social inclusion. This anniversary not only celebrated the past, but also renewed the commitment to a more promising future for those affected.
