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Support groups in different parts of the country

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Crohn's Disease
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Posted 1/26/2010 10:34 PM (GMT 0)
Since this website is so helopful for me and so many other people, I was wondering - does anyone belong to support groups in their area?  When I was first diagnosed my dad suggested I find one and I dismissed the idea as something I would never do, too personal, who wants others to know I have Crohn's, etc.  Fast forward a few years when the disease is still here and I realized i could probably benefit from it.  When I get my Remicaide there are 6 lazy-boy recliners that are always full - everyone can talk or just sit and listen and I didn't realize how much I got out of that, out of commiserating with others who are in a similar situation to mine or hearing regular things about their lives.

I just switched drs and have a new place for my remicaide - it is a tiny room with two chairs.  Very isolated and depressing.  So I am thinking about looking into a support group to check out.

I live in the Northeast - does anyone go to any local groups in their area?  i woudl love to hear your experiences, good or bad!

Thanks!

Posted 1/27/2010 12:35 AM (GMT 0)
No i dont go to support group. but im in northeast about halfway between NYC and Albany.
Posted 1/27/2010 12:51 AM (GMT 0)
We tried to get one started, but I live in a small town, and we don't have enough of a Crohn's population to have it work. Definitely check it out if you have a group in your area. go to ccfa.org and look up your state, and you can see what groups are near you. Good luck
Posted 1/27/2010 2:50 AM (GMT 0)
I used to go to a support group for Lyme Disease when I lived in New England. I now regularly attend a fibromyalgia/chronic pain support group here. I've been to meetings for various support groups over the years. Some support groups are great: you get info, support, and some laughs. Other support groups are pity parties that feel like competitions to see who's the most miserable.

Look around, and if there is more than one, try a few meetings of each. Go with the one that feels comfortable. The right group can be a lifesaver but the wrong group can suck the life out of you. That said, most groups are run by wonderful volunteers and greatly benefit those that attend. Don't worry about a commitment - some people attend one meeting and never return, others come for a few months or sporadically, and others make it every month.
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