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Posted 10/6/2011 7:49 PM (GMT 0)
I've had Crohn's Disease for 12 years, and just recently I've been looking for a support group, hoping to improve my ability to cope with the challenges that it presents for me. Unfortunately, I haven't had as much luck as I had expected. Does anyone know a good way to find a group in your area...?
Posted 10/6/2011 8:35 PM (GMT 0)
Have you tried looking for a group in your area on the CCFA website?  I attend my local group meeting and we ahve a great group (diverse but great)

Posted 10/6/2011 11:27 PM (GMT 0)
We'll try and support you!! I thought I needed face to face support some years ago, but since I've found this
site I have all the support, comfort and love I could ever want!!
Posted 10/7/2011 2:57 AM (GMT 0)
I found 2 different support groups thru CCFA, one was about 2 hours away, and the other was local (which didn't last long).

The one at the hospital 2 hours away was mostly informative stuff, and the local one I found depressing. It only took a few blowhards who had horrible problems and were not interested in hearing from anyone else to sour me on the experience. I think the group only lasted a few months. I went twice.

I find the online experience MUCH better. I can read on topics I am interested in, and offer thoughtful (I hope) comments. I have learned so many things here!

I suppose if you found a well-run group it would be worth it... Good luck!

Sudsmom
Posted 10/7/2011 11:28 AM (GMT 0)

Yes, there can be issues with personalities in the person groups.  I just lucked into a good group.  There are some issues that make me reconsider going sometimes, but I still go because you don't want a bad apple to spoil the bunch.  It is all in what is made of it so goo d meeting leadership makes a huge diofference and we have that.

I love this forum as it gives me a broader perspective on things and there are fantastic anf funny people here.  The anonymity is also a benefit in some situations.  However, I also like the local info I get and some of the personal contact from a group meeting.  If you really want some face to face, perhaps you could consider running a group?  Just a thought for the future.

Posted 10/7/2011 1:42 PM (GMT 0)
Healingwell is my support group. I would be lost without this place. Hugs!
Posted 10/7/2011 10:52 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the feedback everyone. :) My doctor had strongly recommended I find the group, so that's how my search began. This forum is something I'm interested in trying, as well though. It's funny you mention running a group, Habs. Since I've started looking for people to talk to, I've actually stumbled across a few people related to friends of mine who have Crohn's and was considering starting my own if they are interested. :) Whether it is online or in person, I appreciate any support I can find. I've always thought I had to do this alone and now I realize that's not the case at all. Hopefully I can even lend some helpful insight to others from time to time. :)
Posted 10/8/2011 1:39 AM (GMT 0)
I know this forum used to host chats from time-to-time, and it appears there is a crohn's chat room at the top of the screen. How frequently does that happen?

Has anyone ever tried voice or voice and video chatroom for this sort of support group?

Certainly, in person groups are good, too. If you like that kind of interaction with people, I would certainly encourage you to try your local groups. CCFA or maybe your local hospital may have something.

I had never heard of Crohn's disease until I was diagnosed. But after I was diagnosed, I heard of more and more people who had it. My high school principal. A co-worker's wife. My son's teacher's best friend. The guy sitting in the office right next to me.

In fact, the last one - he and I talk from time to time about Crohn's only and not about work. I like to have that personal connection with people you actually know and can talk to face-to-face.
Posted 10/17/2011 7:22 PM (GMT 0)
Voice chat would be something worth trying I think! Good idea. :)
Posted 10/18/2011 2:20 AM (GMT 0)
I have told my doctor about this forum. We are having lots of issues trying to find the right treatment, now every time I see him, he asks me what every one here has to say and if any one has any suggestions. He understands that patients have some of the best experience and that it is an important source to tap into. He appreciates the fact that there is support out there.

There are days when I would be lost with out my friends here. I hope that I am giving back even a small amount of what I have gotten in support!
Posted 10/18/2011 2:57 AM (GMT 0)
I ditto that sentiment Zanne. I know for I would be lost!!!
Posted 11/1/2011 7:47 PM (GMT 0)
If anyone knows of a support group in Calgary, any info you can post would be greatly appreciated. I'm having a heck of a time with my Crohn's and can't find any support.

Thanks.

Monique
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