2024-11-10 17:27:00
The “ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna” was also characterized by community and social commitment. The Ströck family’s WE&ME Foundation was represented with several campaigns. She is committed to the research and treatment of ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). Up to 100,000 people in Austria are affected by the little-researched disease, which massively limits their lives. The internationally celebrated star photographer Brent Stirtonwho has received the prestigious World Press Photo Award several times, dedicates his most recent series of works to ME/CFS sufferers in Austria. In sensitive portraits, he documents their everyday life in their private environment, which is often characterized by complete social isolation and makes participation in social life impossible. Some works were now presented to the general public for the first time at the “ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna” in order to provide insights into the lives of those affected, which are hardly noticeable and imaginable for outsiders. The entire series of works is produced in collaboration with Lois Lammerhuber will be presented next year at the “La Gacilly-Baden Photo” festival.
“Art has the power to convey socially relevant topics and invite people to engage with them. But art can also give hope. For many sufferers, the works of art that surround them are a glimpse into another world that remains largely hidden from them due to ME/CFS. The presence at the ‘ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna’ is a positive signal for those affected and their relatives that the issue is being noticed and that they are not left alone by society,” emphasizes Gerhard Ströck.
Five galleries and art dealers support the WE&ME Foundation
Art fans and trade fair visitors also had the opportunity to buy tickets and win valuable works of art in a raffle. Works by Marc Chagall, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Kiki Kogelnik, Koloman Moser and Hans Staudacher were provided by Kunsthandel Freller, Galerie Kovacek, Giese & Schweiger Kunsthandel, Kunsthandel Florian Kolhammer and the Galerie bei der Albertina Zetter in support of the WE&ME Foundation. They brought in a total of 76,480 euros for the Ströck family’s charitable foundation, which has achieved considerable success in recent months thanks to its constant commitment. Health Minister recently announced John Rauch announces the opening of a national reference center for post-viral syndromes at the Medical University of Vienna, which will contribute to improving patient care. The city of Vienna with mayor Michael Ludwig and the Vienna Science, Research and Technology Fund (WWTF) presented the results of joint research funding with financial support from the WE&ME Foundation in October 2024. Seven projects worth 695,445 euros were selected by the international jury.
Die Rejection by the Ministry of Health of the inclusion of the multisystem disease ME/CFS in the assessment regulation on Friday is seen by both the WE&ME Foundation and patient organizations as an incomprehensible step backwards,
About the WE&ME Foundation
The WE&ME Foundation (formerly TEMPI Foundation) was founded in 2020 by Gabriele and Gerhard Ströck founded and is based in Vienna. The Ströck family’s journey has been profoundly influenced by the impact of ME/CFS and has shaped the nature and purpose of the WE&ME Foundation with unwavering determination. Two of her three sons are affected by ME/CFS. The WE&ME Foundation is committed to basic research in the field of ME/CFS. She wants to bring together and bundle knowledge from research, medicine and patient experience and create broad awareness so that the necessary patient care can be achieved. Further information on weandmecfs.org
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**Interview with Gerhard Ströck, Founder of the WE&ME Foundation**
**Editor:** Welcome, Gerhard. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent highlights from the “ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna” event and its significance for the ME/CFS community.
**Gerhard Ströck:** Thank you for having me. It was a truly inspirational event that brought vital attention to an often-overlooked community.
**Editor:** The presence of Brent Stirton’s portraits at the event provided unique insights into the lives of those affected by ME/CFS. Can you tell us more about the impact of his work?
**Gerhard Ströck:** Absolutely. Brent’s portraits are not just art; they are powerful narratives that depict the daily realities of ME/CFS sufferers. For many, these artistic expressions are a window into a world that feels closed off due to their condition. By showcasing their lives, we hope to foster greater empathy and understanding.
**Editor:** The WE&ME Foundation has been actively supporting research and treatment for ME/CFS. Can you elaborate on the foundation’s recent initiatives?
**Gerhard Ströck:** We’re focused on community engagement and raising awareness. Recently, we collaborated with artists and galleries to raise funds, and we’ve seen significant support—over 76,000 euros—go towards our efforts. This funding is crucial for supporting research and providing resources for those affected by this debilitating disease.
**Editor:** Five galleries participated in fundraising efforts for your foundation. How crucial is their support in driving this cause forward?
**Gerhard Ströck:** It’s essential. The support from these galleries not only aids our financial goals but also amplifies our message. When art dealers and galleries stand with us, it legitimizes the cause in the eyes of the public and invites more dialogue about ME/CFS and its challenges.
**Editor:** Health Minister John Rauch mentioned a new national reference center for post-viral syndromes. How do you perceive this development in the context of ME/CFS?
**Gerhard Ströck:** It’s a significant step forward. Having a dedicated center means better research, diagnosis, and treatment options for those suffering from ME/CFS. It signals that the government is taking this condition seriously, and that offers hope to many individuals and families impacted by it.
**Editor:** how do you envision the role of art in advocating for social issues like ME/CFS in the future?
**Gerhard Ströck:** Art will always have the power to evoke emotions and prompt discussions. It can shine a light on hidden issues, create a sense of connection, and inspire action. We want to continue using art as a medium to elevate voices that are often silenced and encourage society to engage with hard-hitting topics like ME/CFS.
**Editor:** Thank you, Gerhard, for sharing your insights and for your commitment to this important cause. We look forward to seeing how the WE&ME Foundation continues to make an impact.
**Gerhard Ströck:** Thank you for the opportunity to share our mission. Together, we can bring about change.
