Upcoming Events
SPEAKER: Professor Klaus Wirth & Patrick Ussher
TITLE: A Unifying Model of M.E.: An Integrated Approach to a Complex Illness
DATE: Tuesday 21st April 2026
TIME: 18:00 BST | 19:00 CEST | 13:00 EDT
DESCRIPTION:
Patrick Ussher, who has recently written the book “Understanding ME/CFS & Strategies for Healing”, was initially inspired by the paper written by Professors Scheibenbogen and Wirth: “A Unifying Hypothesis of the Pathophysiology of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).” He will first outline why a unifying hypothesis is likely so crucial for clarifying the nature of ME/CFS, an illness which has often been thought to involve a range of random problems but which, according to this new German research, actually involves a clear, predictable pathophysiology comprised of many interlinking vicious cycles.
Patrick will then give an overview of the main components of the Wirth and Scheibenbogen model, including: hypoperfusion, low blood volume, autoimmunity, cellular and autonomic dysfunction, and the precise reasons for post-exertional malaise.
With this overview in place, Professor Klaus Wirth will then build on the explanations of Patrick’s, outlining his disease model in much greater detail, including discussion of the therapeutic he is developing (www.mitodicure.com) which he hopes will become the first medication approved specifically for ME/CFS.
This will be a fascinating insight into this devastating condition that truly provides a unified perspective, unravelling many of its complexities.
———————————————
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS:
About Klaus Wirth
Prof. Dr. Klaus Wirth, Medical Doctor, PhD, has served as Chief Scientific Officer and Managing Director of Mitodicure since 2022. He was previously Senior Researcher at Sanofi in Germany which he joined in 1984. Klaus worked as a pharmacologist in the fields of cardiovascular, bradykinin antagonism, cerebral blood flow, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmias, sodium-calcium exchanger NCX blockers, endocrinology, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, dysphagia, and immunology. Approximately 70 patents are attributable to his work, as well as five clinical developmental projects, one of which Firazyr™, a drug for the treatment of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema, has reached the market. Klaus was co-founder of KOSA Pharma GmbH. He is adjunct professor at the Institute of Pharmacology at Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany.
About Patrick Ussher
Patrick Ussher is an author, composer, and ME/CFS advocate who has lived with the condition for seven years. His recent book, “Understanding ME/CFS & Strategies for Healing,” breaks down breakthrough research from Professors Wirth and Scheibenbogen for patient audiences, and he shares insights on treatment strategies through his YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@me-cfs-strategiesforhealing) and writings for Health Rising.
———————————————
Register here: www.aonm.org/MEWirth
SPEAKER: Michael Cook BSc, Kirstie Haysman & Sarah Grace
TITLE: From Challenge to Change: Voices of Lyme & Lived Experience
DATE: Tuesday 12th May 2026
TIME: 7:00PM BST | 8:00PM CEST | 2:00PM EDT
DESCRIPTION:
In support of Lyme Disease Awareness Month, we’re bringing together three people who have been personally affected by Lyme disease to share their experiences.
This webinar is intended to be a safe, open space for patients, families, and anyone navigating Lyme to hear real stories: the challenges, the setbacks, and the day-to-day reality of living with this condition.
Our speakers will talk honestly about their journeys, including diagnosis, ongoing symptoms, and the ups and downs that can come with Lyme disease. It’s a chance to feel less alone, learn from others, and hear perspectives that don’t always get shared in clinical settings.
We hope this session offers a sense of connection, understanding, and support, wherever you are on your journey.
This session will be facilitated by Gilian Crowther and Dr. Athanasios Vergopoulos (Laboratory Medical Director of ArminLabs)
———————————————
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS:
Michael Cook BSc – Independent Lyme Disease Researcher
Michael J. Cook, born in 1943 in Redcar, England, graduated with a BSc in Physics and Mathematics from the University of London. His 36-year career included computer chip design, research and development, and process engineering in the semiconductor industry, working across the United Kingdom and United States, and leading multinational teams across the US, Europe, and Asia.
After retiring, he was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2009, which led him to investigate Lyme and associated conditions. He is the author or co-author of 14 papers on Lyme disease and has presented his work at conferences in Paris, Boston, Dublin, and London.
His work has included presentations to members of the UK Houses of Lords and Commons, as well as to medical, environmental, and government health agencies. He also investigated a UK Lyme testing laboratory and, alongside others, helped provide evidence of failures that led to its closure. He has also been part of a team presenting evidence at the United Nations on human rights issues affecting patients and clinicians working in Lyme disease.
Kirstie Haysman – Miss Great Britain
Kirstie Haysman is an inspirational author and advocate who transformed her journey from being bedbound and reliant on carers in her 30s due to Lyme disease into becoming a Miss Great Britain winner and a voice for inclusivity.
Her debut children’s book is designed to empower young readers, encouraging them to believe that the strength to overcome challenges lies within.
Kirstie uses her platform to inspire others, raise awareness of chronic health conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Lyme disease, and support charitable causes. She is a passionate advocate for inclusivity.
Sarah Grace – Psychotherapist, Publisher and Author
Sarah Grace is a fully qualified psychotherapist running a private practice, alongside her work in publishing. Living with Lyme disease, she has drawn on her own experiences and professional training to support clients in leading more fulfilling lives.
She works closely with individuals navigating the emotional and often frustrating journey of illness, recovery, and relapse. She has found that nutrition plays an important role in her own wellbeing and recovery, and she understands the many challenges this condition can bring.
Sarah is a proud mother of two and grandmother of two. She loves animals, especially hedgehogs, which she rehabilitates, along with her two cats, and enjoys nature, swimming, and travelling.
———————————————
Register here: www.aonm.org/LymeVoices
DISCLAIMER: THIS SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information on this webpage and these webinars is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical or professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with regards to any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a health care regimen. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of information you have read or seen on this website. The opinions stated in these webinars are those of the people speaking and not necessarily of AONM.