Erin, I think I have a lead for you. Virologist, Dr. Judy Mikovitch, in her book, “Plague of Corruption” wrote about her discovery that a contaminated mouse virus (MSRX?? something like that) used in vaccines in the 80's caused several neuro diseases, among them Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This had resonated with me because in 1990 I began having symptoms very similar to yours. It lasted a year. Flu like symptoms, extreme fatigue, aching joints, symptoms that would come and go. Unending cycles of a week or more of feeling ill, then a few days ok. Back and forth to doctors, neurologist ruled out MS, etc., Finally, my doctor diagnosed me with depression. Yes, I really empathize with you and your experience of feeling invalidated. I asked my doctor if it could be CFS, and he said no, that that was not a real “thing”. This was a common sentiment of docs at that time. And so, after researching, I diagnosed myself as having CFS and just lived with it, til it finally went away for the most part. Anyway, when I read Dr. Judy's book 30 years later (last year) and she talked about the contaminated vaccines, I knew that's what had happened to me. After listening to you and reliving my own experience, I urge you to read her book. She is speaking out now, online in various interviews. Check her out, honey. I believe you may get at least some answers. You will be in my prayers.