Published: 3 September 2026
Melody Teh, Health and Beauty Editor of The Australian Women’s Weekly shares the story of Lily Schubert, who became unwell with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) at 16 and spent six years bed-bound. The article explores the profound impact of severe ME/CFS, including sensory sensitivity, post-exertional malaise (PEM), delayed diagnosis and the loss of independence and connection that can come with the condition.
After years of being confined to her bed, Lily has gradually regained some capacity with the support of her family and healthcare team. Now 25, she works part-time, spends time with family and friends and advocates for greater awareness of ME/CFS, while continuing to live with significantly reduced capacity.
Emerge Australia CEO Anne Wilson is quoted throughout the article, explaining the realities of ME/CFS, PEM and the importance of pacing:
“For someone with ME/CFS, they go to bed… and they get up in the morning and their battery hasn’t charged.”
“What people don’t see is that after you come back from that doctor’s appointment, you’ll be in bed for 10 days.”
“You can’t push through. You’ve actually got to stop, you’ve got to rest and you’ve got to pace yourself.”
