The History of the Fund
The Fund for Osteopathic Research into M.E. (F.O.R.M.E.) Registered
Charity No. 104 5005 was established on 23rd February 1995 with an inaugural
meeting of the trustees held at the Crowne Plaza, The Midland, Manchester.
Since
the inauguration of F.O.R.M.E., funds and awareness have been raised by
many varied events, including a sponsored runner in the 1997 London marathon,
a sponsored bike run, a 5-a side football tournament, a music soiree,
dance evenings and a horse-race at Kempton Park which received national
TV coverage.
On 30th March 1996, F.O.R.M.E. held a fund raising official launch dinner
at The Crowne Plaza The Midland, Manchester. Over two hundred and thirty
guests enjoyed a gala dinner which featured the stars of Phantom and Les
Miserable. Thanks to an extremely successful auction the proceeds were
in excess of £20,000.
On 6th November 1996 the initial clinical trial ended at University of
Salford costing a total of £50,000, all funded by the charity. The research
admirably demonstrated that osteopathic treatment improved the symptoms
of M.E.
In January 1997 the research project resumed in the Department of Biological
Sciences, University of Salford, to explore the anatomical and physiological
basis for the success of the osteopathic approach in treating this disorder.
The researchers hope to uncover with the aid of scanning and laboratory
tests, the real truth behind M.E. and to improve ways of treating the
disease.
We
have now raised over £100,000 towards the current research project. However,
due to the high technology being used substantial funding is still required.
Fund raising is continuing and includes a sponsored bike ride, a runner
in the 1999 Washington Marathon and a number of generous donations from
Trusts and individuals.
The highlight of 1998 was a special evening at the University of Salford attended by more than 200 friends and patients, special guests included the Chancellor of The University, professors, research workers and members of Campus. The Chancellor speaking for the University paid great tribute to Dr Raymond Perrinand his innovative and valuable research. F.O.R.M.E. chairman Chris March announced the donation of £100,000 from the David and Frederick Barclay Trust and congratulated all concerned for a highly successful year.
In March 1999 another Gala Dinner was held at The Crowne Plaza - The Midland, Manchester at which more than £10,000 was raised. Over 200 guests enjoyed Sandy Toksvig’s entertaining and pertinent after Dinner Speech. The profile of F.O.R.M.E. was greatly raised by the event.
Further events are planned. Watch this space!!!!