Support groups are one of the best ways to cope with chronic illnesses. My friend and I run a support group for people with chronic illnesses. We really aren’t leaders of the group though. It runs itself. The great thing is our group is Christian based so we all share a common faith. Now that doesn’t mean we all are in the same place with our faith or that we aren’t challenged when we get sick, have relapses, get worse or feel depressed or angry. It means that we can pray for eachother, speak openly about Jesus and share our feelings on a really deep level.
Today we didn’t go by the book like we normally do, we had fun, fellowship and pizza! Great combination don’t you think! We also had a guest, one of our members’ grandson who is only 3 months old. How a baby can cheer you up and help you feel better.
When I arrived I felt too sick to even carry in the two bottles of soda for our gathering. I had to ask someone to help me, how awful that feels. But I did as we all know our weaknesses and limits. By the end of the meeting I was feeling more energetic and was smiling and in a good mood.
Suggestion for today – if you can get to a support group, do it. If you can find one on the internet, join it.
I tried a few groups for FMS and they didn’t like me much because I was the only trying to get away from that diagnosis. I don’t even know which kind to try joining since I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I’ve thought about starting one here in town for chronic illness in general, but just don’t have the energy. That’s when I finally got turned onto blogging and it has been a god-send! I get support, get to vent, and don’t feel like I miss anything when I can’t visit often or for very long. All in all… I agree with you! People need to share their illness with others who will understand.