YOU reported "Exercise is vital for children's recovery" regarding children suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (July 10).

Speaking from experience, following this advice can make children worse. My daughter, Cheryll, has suffered from this illness for almost five years and followed a similar program for two years only to slowly deteriorate to such a point that regular education became impossible.

All she could do was dream of the exercise she used to love, swimming and dancing etc.

Once we as a family managed her illness ourselves with the support of Tymes Trust and the Association of Young People With ME - two children's support groups - her health slowly started to improve.

Home tuition was a vital part of her recovery progress because she was allowed to rest when necessary.

Now, after three years of allowing Cheryll to rest when she needed, she has reached a stage where it is possible for her to build up her strength with gentle exercise. But even now she has to be extremely careful.

It is important that children are not forced into a programme of exercise and education in school in the early stages of the illness because it can vary in severity and many aren't strong enough to cope.

This can cause a damaging and lasting effect on a young person's life.

Julie Neyt,

Ambrose Street,

Fulford Road,

York.

Updated: 11:17 Thursday, July 15, 2004