I was diagnosed with ME in 2001 and created these beginner-friendly crochet patterns during periods of illness as a gentle, creative way to cope. These blue ME awareness dolls, Luma and Bluebell & Skye are sold through the FunNottyArtefacts Etsy store on a not-for-profit basis, with all profits (after Etsy fees and taxes) donated to ME charities in the UK, including ME Research UK. By supporting this fundraiser, you’re helping raise awareness and provide vital support for people living with ME — stitch by stitch. 💙

I was diagnosed with ME in 2001 and, like many people living with the condition, my symptoms have fluctuated significantly over the years. During the more difficult periods, I needed gentle, flexible ways to cope — both physically and mentally. That’s when I taught myself to crochet.

Crochet became a calming mindfulness activity I could do while resting or reclined, fitting around my limited energy. Over time, it grew from following patterns into designing my own, and eventually into my Etsy shop, Fun Notty Artefacts — named using my children’s initials.

One of my earliest designs was a small, colourful mini desk décor doll. From there, I began creating mini awareness dolls, using colour to represent health conditions close to my heart. That’s how the blue ME awareness dolls were born.

ME charities, including ME Research UK, have played an incredibly important role in supporting my family over the years. To give something back, I now sell this crochet pattern on a not-for-profit basis, with all profits (after Etsy fees and taxes) donated to ME charities in the UK.

The patterns are designed to be beginner- and spoonie-friendly, with clear instructions, step-by-step photos, YouTube tutorials, and simple tick boxes to help people pace themselves without overdoing it.

By supporting this fundraiser — whether by purchasing the pattern, or donating here — you’re helping to turn a small creative project into meaningful support for people living with ME. Each little blue doll helps raise awareness and much-needed funds, stitch by stitch.

Thank you for helping this small idea make a big difference. 💙

About ME Research UK:

"....doctors do not treat us and science does not study us. How could a disease this common and this devastating have been forgotten by medicine?" Jennifer Brea

Only biomedical research can find the causes of ME/CFS, improve diagnosis and treatment, and, ultimately, arrive at a cure. That’s why research is our focus.

We've awarded 64 full grants and 5 PhD-level awards since 2000 and invested over £3.5million. But research is expensive and becoming more so every day. That’s the challenge we face, and that’s why we need your help.