The ME/CFS Centre: A Resource and Support Centre for people with ME/CFS in Second Life

The ME/CFS Centre in Second Life is a great place to meet and talk to other people with ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) and their friends and family, to hold events, to view art, and to access links to current research, information and support groups. Sponsored by Murdoch University and a Discovery grant by the Australian Research Council, the Centre is open 24 hours a day to all those affected by ME/CFS worldwide. We hold regular gatherings here where people can get to know each other. We also encourage you to hold your own meetings, discussion groups and events in our rooms.

How can Second Life help you?

Virtual worlds such as Second Life can help to ease the isolation that is often associated with conditions such as ME/CFS. Since Second Life is a big place, we provide a calm, secure setting for in-world exploration. A virtual world also allows for real-time chat and collaboration with others in a way unmatched by other forms of technology. Second Life allows people who are partially or fully home-bound due to ME/CFS to stretch their legs, gain contacts, and attend events.

The ME/CFS Centre Group and mailing list

Join the ME/CFS Centre Group in Second Life or subscribe to our online group and mailing list to find out when gatherings will be held. Once you join, you can post your own notices to the group. You might want to run meditation classes, get-togethers, or other events in the Centre. You might also want to publicize something going in the real world. As well as posting notices to the group, you can also create a personal page about yourself that others can view. 

Visiting the Centre in Second Life

1. To visit the Centre in Second Life, you first need to create a free Second Life account by visiting https://join.secondlife.com/?lang=en-US. Follow the steps, download the free software, and follow the orientation course. Alternatively, you can sign up and get oriented using the very accessible site, Virtual Ability. 
2. Once you have the software installed on your computer and you have created an account, open up the Second Life software program (check under Programs on your computer). Sign in with your avatar name and password.
3. Then you can come and visit the Centre. The best way to access it is to open up your web browser and access this Second Life URL. Make sure you still have the Second Life program running. Click "Teleport now," and you will be taken to the Centre in Second Life.
4. If you have any problems at all, email me or send an instant message to my avatar in Second Life, Kirsty Bearsfoot.