Yesterday was my and my friend’s Chronic Illness support group meeting. We missed last month’s meeting due to the July 4th holiday. The few months before we had about 5 – 8 women attending. We love each and every member, learn from them and hold them close to them hearts in prayer.
Yesterday we had to meet in a small room because there was memorial service taking place in the church that we use as our meeting place. We almost cancelled. Thank God we didn’t. We had a total of 12 women! And such sharing, love and caring!
Some new members attended. They were amazing. They were comfortable sharing their hints for getting through life and even their deep feelings. I was very touched by one woman in particular. She said that she was at a point in her life where she just wanted to go to sleep and not wake up. She really wasn’t suicidal but just sick of being sick. I’ve been there.
She announced that her grandson was graduating from boot camp this week and it also was her birthday. She made the decision to go on the trip to see him graduate and pamper herself by spending a few extra days in Georgia with her husband. Now that’s a change of heart. We all applauded her decision and her new attitude. What joy to share that with her.
Some people tell me I do too much by helping to run this group. I tell them I get a lot back in return. No way is that work.
How very fortunate to have such a group! I gave up the hope of finding a “illness specific” group since my diagnosis seems to change with the seasons, but did look into a local chronic illness group. My two phone calls were never returned! I’ve often thought of starting one myself, but with my ongoing soap opera life, I’d hate to be another one who doesn’t return calls. So keep up the good work and I wish your group many more enjoyable meetings!