An article about hidden poverty in the context of the Day of Hidden Poverty.

Seven years ago I suddenly became chronically ill. My life changed completely in one fell swoop. An accident never comes alone, because I could no longer work and ended up on welfare benefit – and that was my biggest disability. Living in poverty is degrading and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy! Rescue came completely unexpectedly.

I'm stuck in an abusive relationship. My partner is convinced that I’m cheating on him. He thinks I'm asking too much of him. He systematically breaks down my self-esteem. I want to get out of this relationship, but I can't. Life couldn't be more lonesome…

Today, the three patient organisations for people with ME/CFS have a round table discussion about ME with the committee of Family, health and care. I don't manage to be there in person, so I shared my story here.

This is what I wrote:
Jochem, 44 years old.

Due to ME/CFS I am no longer able to work. As a self-employed person I am not entitled to a disability benefit, and so I ended up on Social Benefit. You can manage reasonably well with Social Benefit, provided you have no additional costs. But I do have additional costs and that is why I am about 150 euros short each month.