A 17-year-old from Bury has released a charity Christmas album following his diagnosis with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), last year. Harry Boulton hopes his album, White Christmas, will not only raise funds but also increase awareness about the often misunderstood condition.
Diagnosed in January 2024 after a viral infection, Harry experienced symptoms that dramatically altered his life. “Christmas is my favourite time of year and what better way to raise money for charity,” he said. “People don’t understand CFS. It used to be a laugh and joke that people were ‘just tired’. That needs to change.”
Understanding ME/CFS: A Personal Journey
Harry’s journey with ME/CFS began with dizzy spells and fainting during his GCSE year. The condition forced him to leave mainstream education, derailing his plans to attend sixth form college and pursue film studies at university. “A massive part of it is your mental health,” Harry explained. “You feel so depressed really.”
His experience is not unique. ME/CFS affects an estimated 17 million people worldwide, yet it remains poorly understood. Harry highlighted the lack of awareness and research funding, noting, “Things are only just coming out just about now about possible cures for it and government spending – which to me, in 2025, is really shocking.”
Music as a Beacon of Hope
Earlier this year, Harry released a cover of Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life,” which paved the way for his charity album. Since the release of White Christmas in November, Harry has been moved by the response. “I’ve had stories been told to me of people saying their daughters or their sons have got ME or chronic fatigue syndrome and that they’ll be really touched to know that I’m raising awareness,” he shared.
All proceeds from the album will go to the ME Association, a charity dedicated to research and support for those affected by the condition. Martine Ainsworth-Wells, the charity’s campaigns director, praised Harry’s efforts, stating, “Harry’s generosity and creativity will help bring joy to listeners during the festive season while making a real difference for those living with ME/CFS.”
The Broader Impact and Future Outlook
Harry’s initiative highlights the power of personal stories in fostering understanding and change. His message is clear: “I think that people should be open to learning about it, because it could affect anybody.”
As Harry continues to navigate life with ME/CFS, his story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those with chronic illnesses and the importance of empathy and support. The hope is that increased awareness will lead to more research and better resources for those affected.
Looking ahead, Harry remains optimistic about the potential for change. His album is not just a collection of festive tunes but a call to action for greater understanding and support for ME/CFS sufferers worldwide.
